Translation and Meaning of: 小切手 - kogite

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

Romaji: kogite

Kana: こぎって

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1

小切手

Translation / Meaning: Check; Verification

Meaning in English: cheque;check

Definition: Bank account withdrawal order.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (小切手) kogite

The Japanese word 「小切手」 (kogite) refers to a check, in the financial sense of the word, as a document that orders the payment of a specific amount of money from a bank account. Its etymology is composed of two kanji: 「小」 (ko), which means "small", and 「切手」 (kitte), which means "ticket" or "coupon". The term can be literally translated as a "small ticket", which references the traditional physical size of checks compared to other financial documents.

Historically, the introduction of checks as a form of financial transaction in Japan is associated with the Meiji period, when the country began to adopt Western banking practices. The originally French concept for banking transactions was adapted and received a name that referred to the notion of a small piece of paper with great monetary value. Over time, 「小切手」 became an integral part of commercial and financial practices in Japan, serving as a convenient means for transactions without the need for physical cash.

In addition to its literal use, the term 「小切手」 reflects a significant cultural and economic evolution in Japan. During the rapid industrialization period in the 19th century, the need for efficient means of transferring value increased, making the introduction of payment systems like the check essential. In contemporary Japan, although the use of checks is declining due to digitalization and more modern payment methods, the word still carries historical and cultural importance, symbolizing an era of modernization and globalization.

Synonyms and similar words

手形 (tegata) - Document or receipt that serves as proof of payment.
支払手形 (shiharai tegata) - Document used to formalize a payment to be made.
支払い手形 (shiharai tegata) - Similar to 支払手形, used for payments, but may have subtle differences in context.
支払用紙幣 (shiharai you shihei) - Notes or money intended for payments.
支払用小切手 (shiharai you kogitte) - Checks designated for specific payments.
支払小切手 (shiharai kogitte) - Checks used for general payments.
支払書 (shiharai sho) - Formal payment documentation.
支払証書 (shiharai shousho) - Certificate or receipt that confirms a payment made.
支払用書類 (shiharai you shorui) - Documents specifically used for making payments.
支払用証書 (shiharai you shousho) - Specific certificates for payments.
お金の代わりの紙 (okane no kawari no kami) - Paper that serves as a substitute for money.
お金の代わりの手紙 (okane no kawari no tegami) - Letter that serves as a substitute for money.
お金の代わりの支払い手段 (okane no kawari no shiharai shudan) - Payment method that replaces cash.
お金の代わりの支払い書類 (okane no kawari no shiharai shorui) - Documentation that replaces cash in payments.
支払い用紙 (shiharai you shi) - Paper used specifically for payments.
支払い用手紙 (shiharai you tegami) - Letters used to formalize payments.
支払い用小切手 (shiharai you kogitte) - Checks intended for specific payments.