Translation and Meaning of: 後者 - kousha

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

Romaji: kousha

Kana: こうしゃ

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n3

後者

Translation / Meaning: the latter

Meaning in English: the latter

Definition: This last (gosha): The one that is positioned later as the object of comparison.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (後者) kousha

The Japanese word 「後者」, read as "kousha", is a term used to refer to the "latter" or "second" of two items mentioned earlier. It is commonly used in contrasts or comparisons when discussing two parts or options, with the first being called 「前者」(zensha), which means "the former". This usage is common in both written and spoken Japanese, helping to clarify the context of a discussion or explanation.

Etymologically, 「後者」 is composed of two kanji: 「後」 (kou), which means "behind" or "after," and 「者」 (sha), which is generally used to indicate a person or thing. The combination of these characters conveys the idea of "the one that comes after" between two elements, solidifying its use to refer to the final item in a list or sequence. The radical of 「後」 is represented by the characters "夂" or "彳," both conveying the idea of movement backwards or subsequent position, which is vital in the conception of time and order.

Historically, Chinese characters have strongly influenced Japanese, and words like 「後者」 carry this cultural heritage in their usage and meaning. In Japan, precision and clarity in written and verbal communications are highly valued, and expressions like 「後者」 help achieve this. Such distinctions are crucial in formal contexts, such as academic debates, journalistic reports, or even in business settings, where clear thinking and communication are highly appreciated.

Synonyms and similar words

後半 (Kouhan) - Final part; second half of something.
後者 (Kouza) - The second of the two mentioned things; refers to the last option in a comparison.
後半部分 (Kouhanbubun) - Final part; the part that corresponds to the second half.
後半期 (Kouhanki) - Final period; the phase that encompasses the final part of a certain time or event.
後半戦 (Kouhansen) - Final part of a competition or game; the decisive phase of an event.
後半分 (Kouhanbun) - Final half; part that corresponds to the second half of something.