Translation and Meaning of: 特急 - tokyuu

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

Romaji: tokyuu

Kana: とっきゅう

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n4

特急

Translation / Meaning: Express Limited (train faster than an express)

Meaning in English: limited express (train faster than an express)

Definition: Limited express: A train that stops at relatively few stations and takes little time.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (特急) tokyuu

The word 「特急」 (tokkyuu) is a Japanese term that refers to a type of express train service. In many regions of Japan, the 「特急」 trains are known for their speed and efficiency, stopping only at major stations. This word is composed of two kanji: 「特」 (toku), which means 'special', and 「急」 (kyuu), which means 'fast' or 'urgent'. This combination conveys the idea of a fast transportation service, appreciated by those who need to move quickly between cities or metropolitan areas with few stops.

The etymology of each kanji provides more information about the origin and meaning of that word. The kanji 「特」 is used in other words that denote special or exclusive characteristics and is composed of the radicals 「牛」(ushi, cow) and 「寺」(tera, temple), which historically have connotations of something rare or valuable. The kanji 「急」, on the other hand, is present in words related to haste and speed, and is formed by the elements 「心」 (kokoro, heart) and 「九」 (kyuu, nine), suggesting a sense of urgency or accelerated need.

The concept of 「特急」 trains in Japan dates back to the period of rapid development of the country's railway system, which aimed to create an efficient and punctual network to meet the demand for mass transportation. In past decades, the introduction of these trains was a milestone in connecting various regions quickly, transforming the way travel was conducted. This innovation was essential for economic and social growth by significantly reducing travel time.

In the contemporary context, 「特急」 continues to have a significant impact on the daily lives of travelers in Japan. They offer a balance between speed and comfort, often with additional amenities compared to local train services. Tickets for 「特急」 trains are generally more expensive than for regional services, reflecting the convenience and time saved. Additionally, there are variants such as 「新幹線」 (shinkansen), the famous bullet train, which is even faster, but the term 「特急」 is widely used for express trains that are not high-speed.

Synonyms and similar words

特別急行 (Tokubetsu Kyukou) - Special express; a type of express train that is faster and has limited stops.
特急列車 (Tokkyuu Ressha) - Express train; a train that makes fewer stops than a local train, but is not as fast as the 特別急行.
急行列車 (Kyukou Ressha) - Rapid express train; a train that stops at more stations than the 特急列車, but is still faster than a local train.

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