Translation and Meaning of: 残酷 - zankoku
On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 残酷 (zankoku) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.
Romaji: zankoku
Kana: ざんこく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1
Translation / Meaning: cruelty; toughness
Meaning in English: cruelty;harshness
Definition: Acting cruelly towards other people or animals.
Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases
Explanation and Etymology - (残酷) zankoku
The word 「残酷」 (zankoku) is a Japanese expression that translates to "cruelty" or "brutality" in English. The etymology of the word refers to the fusion of two kanji characters: 「残」 and 「酷」. The kanji 「残」 (zan) conveys the idea of "remaining" or "persisting," but in negative contexts, it can also mean "excess" or "damage." The kanji 「酷」 (koku) means "severity" or "extreme," suggesting a merciless or inhumane action.
The origin of the word lies in the fusion of these two ideas: a cruelty that is so severe that it lingers, leaving a lasting mark or impact. This combination of meanings is typical in Japanese words, where the union of characters forms more complex and profound concepts. In Japanese culture, attitudes and actions described as "zankoku" are often associated with images and stories of tragedies, wars, and conflicts that leave deep and lasting emotional impacts.
The expression zankoku is not limited to mere acts of physical brutality; it can also be used metaphorically to describe emotional or psychological situations that have a severe and overwhelming impact. In Japanese literature and arts, 「残酷」 is a recurring theme, explored in novels, poetry, and films, often as a reflection on human nature and the complexities of morality in extreme situations. This semantic richness makes the term an essential part of the Japanese vocabulary, contributing to cultural and philosophical discussions in Japan and beyond.
Synonyms and similar words
- 非情 (Hijou) - Indifference or lack of compassion; it can denote an emotional coldness towards others.
- 冷酷 (Reikoku) - Cold and cruel; it refers to a relentless and merciless nature.
- 残忍 (Zannin) - Cruel and painful; focused on causing suffering to others with malicious intent.
- 凶暴 (Kyoubou) - Violent and ferocious; stands out for its aggressiveness and uncontrolled behavior.
- 無慈悲 (Mujihi) - Without mercy; it implies an extreme unwavering character and absence of compassion.
Words related
Words with the same pronunciation: ざんこく zankoku
How to Write in Japanese - (残酷) zankoku
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese (残酷) zankoku:
Example Sentences - (残酷) zankoku
Below are some example sentences:
Zankoku na genjitsu wo uketomeru hitsuyou ga aru
We need to face cruel reality.
It is necessary to accept cruel reality.
- 残酷な - cruel
- 現実 - reality
- を - particle indicating the object of a verb
- 受け止める - to accept, to take in
- 必要 - necessário
- が - particle indicating the subject of a sentence
- ある - to exist, to be
Other words of the same type: noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: noun
