Translation and Meaning of: 急行 - kyuukou

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

Romaji: kyuukou

Kana: きゅうこう

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n4

急行

Translation / Meaning: Express (for example, train that ignores many stations)

Meaning in English: express (e.g. train that bypasses many stations)

Definition: Fast train.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (急行) kyuukou

The Japanese word 「急行」 (kyūkō) is composed of two kanji: 「急」 which means "fast" or "urgent," and 「行」 which means "to go" or "to travel." The term is often associated with transportation, alluding to a fast service, especially in relation to trains. The 「急行」 trains make fewer stops, allowing passengers to reach their destinations more quickly compared to local trains.

Etymologically, 「急」 (kyū) evolved from a pictographic representation that symbolized quick movement, often associated with actions that require haste. This kanji is used in various compositions to describe situations that demand agility. On the other hand, 「行」 (kō or gyō) has origins in the representation of paths or journeys, a concept rooted in movement or flow, reflecting the idea of progress or travel at its core. Together, these kanji illustrate the direct idea of "going quickly," encapsulating the practical function of transportation services efficiently.

In Japan, the 「急行」 trains are a category of service used to cover distances quickly, but still making more stops than the super express trains, known as 「特急」 (tokkyū). It is interesting to note how the Japanese railway system is meticulously classified to meet different commuting needs, making travel an experience tailored to the passenger's time and requirements.

This word is also used more broadly to describe quick movements or actions in a general context, not restricted to transportation. For example, in everyday life, if an event or situation requires quick action, one can use the term 「急行」 to describe the need for quick decisions or movements, highlighting the flexibility and dynamism of the Japanese vocabulary in the contextual and practical use of terms.

Synonyms and similar words

特急 (tokkyū) - Super fast, express service with limited stops.
快速 (kaisoku) - Quick, fast service with more stops than the express, but fewer than the local.
急行列車 (kyūkō ressha) - Express service, with stops at main stations and some intermediate ones.

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