Translation and Meaning of: 郊外 - kougai

The Japanese word 郊外[こうがい] is a common term in everyday life in Japan, but it can create doubts for language learners. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and use in different contexts. Additionally, we will understand how this word is culturally perceived and some tips to memorize it effectively. If you have ever wondered what 郊外 means or how to use it in sentences, this Suki Nihongo guide will help you!

Meaning and translation of 郊外

郊外 [こうがい] is a compound word made up of two kanji: 郊 (suburb, surroundings) and 外 (outside, exterior). Together, they form the meaning of "surroundings of the city" or "suburb." In English, the closest translation would be "urban periphery" or "suburban area."

Unlike 田舎[いなか] (rural area), 郊外 refers to residential or commercial areas close to large urban centers, but not in the heart of the metropolis. It is a neutral term, with no positive or negative connotation, just descriptive. If you live in a big city in Japan, you have probably heard this word in conversations about location.

Everyday use and cultural context

In Japan, 郊外 is often associated with quieter residential neighborhoods, where many families choose to live to escape the chaos of urban centers. Large retail chains and supermarkets often open branches in 郊外 due to the available space and the influx of people seeking convenience away from central areas.

A practical example is the use in sentences like 郊外に引っ越しました (I moved to the suburbs), common among those seeking more space at an affordable price. It's worth noting that, unlike in some Western countries, Japanese suburbs maintain good transportation infrastructure, which makes commuting to work or study easier.

Tips for memorizing 郊外

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate its kanjis with mental images. The first character, 郊, contains the radical 阝 (which indicates a relationship with places) and 交 (intersection), suggesting a transitional area between city and countryside. 外 is simpler, meaning "outside." Together, they reinforce the idea of "area outside the center."

Another tip is to create flashcards with phrases like 郊外の大型店 (large-scale stores in the suburbs) or 郊外電車 (suburban trains), which are common expressions in Japan. Listening to music or watching dramas that mention 郊外 also helps to memorize the term naturally, as it frequently appears in discussions about urban planning and lifestyle.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 郊外 (kougai) - Suburb, peripheral area of the city
• かこう (kakou) - A possible variation or misspelling not related to the meaning of 郊外.