Translation and Meaning of: 祝日 - shukujitsu

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

Romaji: shukujitsu

Kana: しゅくじつ

Type: Noun

L: jlpt-n2

祝日

Translation / Meaning: National holiday

Meaning in English: national holiday

Definition: A day designated as a holiday by law in a country or region to commemorate a specific event or person.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (祝日) shukujitsu

The Japanese word 「祝日」 (shukujitsu) is composed of two kanji: 「祝」 (shuku) meaning "celebration" or "congratulation," and 「日」 (jitsu or nichi) meaning "day." Thus, the literal translation would be "day of celebration" or "holiday." The term is widely used in Japan to refer to national holidays, those days when the Japanese people acknowledge an event or a tradition of cultural, social, or religious significance.

The history of the concept of 「祝日」 in Japan is fascinating. Many traditional holidays, such as 「正月」 (shōgatsu, New Year) and 「山の日」 (Yama no Hi, Mountain Day), have ancient roots in the Japanese lunar calendar and incorporate elements of agricultural festivals and peculiarities of the seasonal cycle. Other holidays, such as 「憲法記念日」 (Kenpou Kinenbi, Constitution Day), reflect more contemporary events and the evolution of Japan's political and legal traditions.

Classificação dos 祝日 (shukujitsu)

Traditional Holidays: Celebrated since ancient times, such as the 「節分」 (Setsubun).
Civic Holidays: Established to celebrate civic and governmental events, such as the 「建国記念の日」 (Kenkoku Kinen no Hi, Foundation Day).
Seasonal Holidays: Related to nature and the seasons of the year, including 「秋分の日」 (Shūbun no Hi, Autumn Equinox).

In modern Japan, the 「祝日」 are integrated into the legal system as part of the 「祝日法」 (Shukujitsu Hou, Holiday Law). This legislation defines the holidays and often regulates how they are observed. Besides the term 「祝日」, words like 「休日」 (kyūjitsu, day off or rest) are also used, but 「休日」 can refer to any day off, not necessarily an official holiday. The holiday system is an integral part of Japanese life and culture, providing moments of pause and celebration that permeate daily activities.

Synonyms and similar words

休日 (Kyuujitsu) - Dia de folga ou descanso
国民の休日 (Kokumin no Kyuujitsu) - National holiday, a day off for all citizens
祭日 (Saijitsu) - Holiday usually related to festivities or celebrations
記念日 (Kinenbi) - Day of celebration, a specific holiday to remember an important event