Translation and Meaning of: 伝説 - densetsu

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 伝説 (densetsu) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: densetsu

Kana: でんせつ

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1

伝説

Translation / Meaning: tradition; legend; folklore

Meaning in English: tradition;legend;folklore

Definition: Stories that have been passed down since ancient times and historical events that are believed to have occurred.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (伝説) densetsu

The word 「伝説」 (densetsu) is widely used in different cultures. This word unfolds from two distinct kanji characters: 「伝」 (den), which means "to transmit" or "to communicate," and 「説」 (setsu), which means "theory" or "explanation." When combined, they form the expression "legend," which implies a story or narrative passed down through generations.

The use of the term 「伝説」 (densetsu) in Japan dates back to ancient times, reflecting the country's rich oral tradition. Legends are a fundamental part of the Japanese cultural fabric, passed down from generation to generation, often incorporating supernatural elements or mythical beings. For example, stories of yokai and Shinto gods are common examples of densetsu that continue to influence contemporary culture.

Legends are generally categorized into different types, based on their content and form of transmission. Here are some categories:

Creation legends: Stories that explain the origin of the world and cultural traditions.
Heroic legends: Focused on heroic figures who achieve great deeds.
Mythological legends: Involve gods, spirits, and other supernatural entities.

Each culture has its own versions of densetsu, and in Japan, these stories often carry moral values and lessons that reflect the philosophy and ethics of Japanese society. The word continues to transcend cultural boundaries, serving as a powerful link between the past and the present, and continues to inspire both modern literature and entertainment.

Synonyms and similar words

神話 (Shinwa) - Mythology, heroic stories of gods and heroes.
伝説 (Densetsu) - Traditional account of events or historical figures that may or may not be true.
伝承 (Denshō) - Traditions or legends passed down from generation to generation, often orally.
伝説的 (Densetsuteki) - Legendary, related to stories that have a basis in truth or are frequently told.
伝説上の (Densetsujōno) - From a legend, belonging to a traditional or legendary story.
伝説的存在 (Densetsuteki sonzai) - Legendary entity, being that is part of legends and myths.
伝説的人物 (Densetsuteki jinbutsu) - Legendary character, a historical or fictional figure that holds legendary status.
伝説的な物語 (Densetsuteki na monogatari) - Legendary history, a narrative that involves elements of legend and mythology.
伝説的な生き物 (Densetsuteki na ikimono) - Legendary beings, creatures that appear in myths and legends, such as dragons or phoenixes.
伝説的な武器 (Densetsuteki na buki) - Legendary weapons, combat objects with a mythical or heroic history.
伝説的な島 (Densetsuteki na shima) - Legendary island, a place with history or mythical meanings, like Avalon.
伝説的な事件 (Densetsuteki na jiken) - Legendary event, a significant historical occurrence that becomes part of the legend.
伝説的な場所 (Densetsuteki na basho) - Legendary place, a location that is part of mythological stories.
伝説的な話 (Densetsuteki na hanashi) - Legendary tale, narration that involves elements of legend.
伝説的なキャラクター (Densetsuteki na kyarakutā) - Legendary character, iconic figure with mythical or heroic characteristics.
伝説的な英雄 (Densetsuteki na eiyū) - Legendary hero, an individual who is exalted and spoken of in legends.