Translation and Meaning of: 外国 - gaikoku

The Japanese word 外国[がいこく] is a fundamental term for those studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will see practical tips for memorizing it and interesting facts that make this word even more intriguing. If you seek to understand this expression better, you are in the right place – and Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, can further assist you with real usage examples.

What does 外国 mean and how is it used?

The word 外国[がいこく] is composed of two kanji: 外 (outside) and 国 (country). Together, they form the literal meaning of "foreign country" or "overseas". This term is widely used in Japan to refer to nations that are not Japan itself, just as in Portuguese we use "foreign" or "outside the country".

In daily life, Japanese people use 外国 in various contexts, from informal conversations to news reports. For example, one might say 外国に行きたい (I want to go to a foreign country) or 外国の文化 (foreign culture). It is a neutral word, without negative or positive connotation by itself – it all depends on the context in which it is applied.

The origin and writing of 外国

The etymology of 外国 goes back to Classical Chinese, just like many other Japanese terms. The kanji 外 represents the idea of "external" or "outside," while 国 means "country" or "nation." This combination was adopted by Old Japanese and remains in use today, without significant changes in its meaning.

It is worth noting that 外国 is written only in kanji, without the use of hiragana or katakana in its standard form. The reading がいこく is one of the most common, but it can also appear in compounds with other pronunciations, such as 外国人 (gaikokujin – foreigner). Mastering this word is essential for those who want to expand their vocabulary related to travel and cultures.

Tips for memorizing and curiosities about 外国

An effective way to remember 外国 is to associate it with everyday situations. Think of sentences like "I want to travel to a 外国" or "food from a 外国." Another strategy is to remember that 外 is the same kanji used in 外食 (gaishoku – eating out), reinforcing the idea of "outside."

Interestingly, 外国 is less used in bureaucratic contexts, where terms like 海外 (kaigai – overseas) are more common. Furthermore, although it is neutral, the word can take on different tones depending on the conversation – from admiration for foreign cultures to discussions about immigration policies. Knowing how to use it in the right context makes all the difference.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 異国 (Ikoku) - Foreign country, emphasizing cultural difference.
• 外来の国 (Gairai no Kuni) - Country that comes from abroad, usually used in immigration contexts.
• 外の国 (Soto no Kuni) - Countries from abroad, from a geographical perspective.
• 外国の地 (Gaikoku no Chi) - Foreign lands, with an emphasis on location.
• 外国の土地 (Gaikoku no Tochi) - Foreign lands, focusing more on property and soil.