Translation and Meaning of: 原稿 - genkou

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

Romaji: genkou

Kana: げんこう

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n2

原稿

Translation / Meaning: manuscript; copy

Meaning in English: manuscript;copy

Definition: A manuscript is a first draft or incomplete draft of a text or work.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (原稿) genkou

The word 「原稿」 (genkou) refers to the concept of "manuscript" or "draft" in various contexts, such as in the writing of books, articles, or essays. This term is widely used in the editorial and academic fields to designate the original text of an author before it is revised or published. The composition of the word in kanji is a combination of 「原」 (gen), which means "original" or "source," and 「稿」 (kou), which indicates "draft" or "manuscript."

Etymologically, the kanji 「原」 (gen) has connotations of "primal" or "essential," capturing the idea of something in its initial or unadulterated form. 「稿」 (kou), on the other hand, is related to the idea of refinement or preparation for a final outcome. This second kanji has a meaning close to "drafting," which is quite appropriate considering its use in writing. Together, these characters form a word that perfectly describes the nature of a text in its early phases.

Historically, the use of 「原稿」 (genkou) dates back to the time when texts were primarily written by hand, before the inventions of printing and modern word processors. Authors and scribes of ancient Chinese and Japanese used materials such as bamboo, handmade paper, and even fabrics as surfaces for their early drafts. The evolution of this practice over the centuries reflects the transformations that the very word 「原稿」 (genkou) may have undergone, adapting to technological and cultural changes.

In daily life, the word 「原稿」 (genkou) can be found in various settings, such as in schools, where students submit drafts of their work, or in newspaper offices, where journalists produce original articles. The term is essential in the jargon of communication professionals and writers, defining the first version of any written work. Additionally, 「原稿用紙」 (genkou youshi), or "manuscript paper," is a special type of squared paper used in Japan for handwriting texts, preserving the traditional aesthetics of calligraphy.

Synonyms and similar words

原稿 (Genkō) - Manuscript, draft, or preliminary version of a text.
草稿 (Sōkō) - Draft or sketch, usually an initial version.
下書き (Shitagaki) - Outline or draft, referring to the first phase of a text.
原稿用紙 (Genkō yōshi) - Paper used for writing manuscripts, with specific formatting for writing texts.
手稿 (Shukō) - Manuscript written by hand, an unprinted version of a text.
筆記 (Hikki) - A written act, whether by hand or on a typewriter, generally used to refer to notes.
筆記体 (Hikkitai) - Handwriting style, like cursive.
著作 (Chosaku) - A written work generally refers to a work by an author. (such as books or articles).
著者 (Chosha) - Author, the person who writes or creates a work.
作品 (Sakuhin) - Artistic work or creation can include various genres such as literature, art, etc.
文章 (Bunshō) - Text or writing in general, including essays and narratives.
論文 (Ronbun) - Academic article or dissertation, typically in the context of research.
詩 (Shi) - Poetry, a literary form that expresses feelings through verses.
小説 (Shōsetsu) - Romance or fiction, a long narrative.
戯曲 (Gikyoku) - Play, a script for a theatrical performance.
マニュアル (Manyuaru) - Manual, instruction guide.
ドキュメント (Dokyumento) - Document, a written record of information.
レポート (Repōto) - Report, documentation about a research or study.
プレゼンテーション (Purezentēshon) - Presentation, an oral exhibition of a topic, usually with visual support.