Translation and Meaning of: 科学 - kagaku

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

Romaji: kagaku

Kana: かがく

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n4

科学

Translation / Meaning: science

Meaning in English: science

Definition: Field of study that systematically organizes knowledge about natural phenomena and substances and elucidates their laws.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (科学) kagaku

The word 「科学」 (kagaku) is composed of two Kanji characters: 「科」 and 「学」. 「科」(ka) refers to "division" or "category," often used to designate a field of study or discipline. The Kanji 「学」 (gaku), in turn, means "study" or "knowledge." Together, they form the term 「科学」, traditionally translated as "science," which implies the systematic study or acquisition of knowledge within various disciplines.

Historically, the evolution of the concept of 「科学」 in Japan was strongly influenced by the integration of Western concepts during the Meiji Era (1868-1912). Before this period, knowledge was primarily transmitted through traditional methods, without the scientific formalization we recognize today. With Japan's opening to the West, there was an assimilation of Western scientific methods, which were then renamed and adapted to the Japanese cultural and linguistic context, resulting in the use of the term 「科学」 to denote natural and social sciences.

In contemporary use, 「科学」 (kagaku) encompasses a wide range of fields. The natural, social, and applied sciences are all included under the same umbrella, reflecting the breadth of the term. The word often appears in combinations that specify areas of study, such as 「物理学」 (butsurigaku, physics) and 「生物学」 (seibutsugaku, biology). The flexibility of the term allows for adaptation to emerging new fields, illustrating the constant evolution and expansion of knowledge. Essentially, 「科学」 not only represents systematic learning but also the intrinsic curiosity that drives humanity to advance and better understand the world around us.

Synonyms and similar words

学問 (Gakumon) - Study, learning; referring to the act of acquiring academic knowledge.
学術 (Gakujuutsu) - Academic science; refers to research and systematic study in specific academic areas.
知識 (Chishiki) - Knowledge; refers to information and skills acquired through experience or education.
理学 (Rigaku) - Natural sciences; it refers to the study of the laws of nature and natural phenomena.
自然科学 (Shizen Kagaku) - Natural sciences; it encompasses disciplines that study the universe and natural phenomena (similar to 理学, but with a broader focus).
技術 (Gijutsu) - Technique, technology; refers to the practical application of scientific knowledge in various fields.
技能 (Ginou) - Skill, competence; refers to the dexterity and ability to perform specific tasks, often acquired through practice.