Translation and Meaning of: 半径 - hankei

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

Romaji: hankei

Kana: はんけい

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n2

半径

Translation / Meaning: ray

Meaning in English: radius

Definition: The distance from the center to the circumference or surface of a sphere.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (半径) hankei

The word 「半径」(hankei) is a compound construction made up of two kanji: 「半」 which means "half" and 「径」 which means "path" or "trajectory." Together, these characters form the word that describes the radius of a circle, i.e., the distance from the center of a circle to any point on its circumference. This combination of kanji reflects the idea of a path that extends halfway through a circle, starting from the central point.

In the etymology of the term, the kanji 「半」 is often used in words related to fractions or divisions, such as in 「半分」(hanbun), which means "half". The kanji 「径」 is used in words that relate to paths or directions, such as in 「径路」(keiro), which means "route". Therefore, the combination of these kanji in 「半径」 creates a word that precisely represents a path by half of the circle, that is, the radius.

The origin of the use of the term in the mathematical context is linked to the development of geometry, where the concept of radius is fundamental for the study of the properties of circular figures. In Western languages, the equivalent word "radius" has its roots in Latin, having a similar usage. Thus, 「半径」 is a word that carries both cultural and technical significance, representing an essential concept in the understanding of geometric shapes.

In the vast universe of Japanese mathematical vocabulary, 「半径」 is a key word, frequently employed in academic studies and practical applications. From young students in math classes to engineers in complex practices, understanding the term and the concept is essential. Moreover, the presence of 「半径」 is noted in broader contexts where the concept of radius is applied, such as in physics and area calculations.