Translation and Meaning of: 元素 - genso

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

Romaji: genso

Kana: げんそ

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1

元素

Translation / Meaning: Chemical element

Meaning in English: chemical element

Definition: The most basic chemical substance that makes up matter. In the periodic table, each element is identified by its atomic number.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
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- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (元素) genso

The word 「元素」 (genso) is a Japanese term that means "element." This concept is widely used in various fields of knowledge, especially in chemistry, where it refers to substances that cannot be decomposed into simpler substances by chemical methods. The etymology of 「元素」 is composed of two Kanji: 「元」 (gen) which means "origin" or "base," and 「素」 (so) which means "essence" or "element." Together, they convey the idea of a basic essence or fundamental component.

Originating from the intensified Japanese contact with Western science during the Edo period, particularly with the introduction of chemical concepts, 「元素」 began to be used to refer to the essential components found in nature. The reception and adaptation of foreign scientific terms were crucial during the Westernization of Japan, contributing to the expansion of Japanese technical vocabulary. Today, 「元素」 retains its relevance not only in chemistry but also in fields such as physics and biology, when we talk about essential elements of nature or natural components.

In a broader context, the idea of 「元素」 can be seen in other cultural aspects, such as traditional Japanese philosophy and Buddhism. These perspectives also explore the notion of fundamental elements or essences that make up the universe. Additionally, in traditional medicine and practices like feng shui, there are concepts of elements that influence energy and balance in the environment and the human organism.

Importance and use of 「元素」 in modern science

In the periodic table, each 「元素」 is identified by a unique chemical symbol, representing different types of atoms.
Studying 「元素」 is crucial for understanding chemical reactions, molecular bonds, and the structure of matter.
The 「元素」 also play a vital role in emerging technologies, such as nanotechnology and new materials.

Therefore, 「元素」 transcends its basic meaning, becoming a rich and multifaceted concept in human culture and knowledge. With applications ranging from rigorous science to philosophy and culture, the understanding of 「元素」 reveals much about how we view the world and its fundamental origin.

Synonyms and similar words

素材 (sozai) - Material or substance used for the manufacturing of something.
物質 (busshitsu) - Substance, generally referring to any type of physical matter.
化学元素 (kagaku gendai) - Chemical element, a pure substance that cannot be decomposed into simpler substances by chemical reactions.

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