Translation and Meaning of: 行列 - gyouretsu

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

Romaji: gyouretsu

Kana: ぎょうれつ

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n2

行列

Translation / Meaning: line; procession; matrix (mathematics)

Meaning in English: line;procession;matrix (math)

Definition: In mathematics, a collection of numbers scattered across rows and columns.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (行列) gyouretsu

The word 「行列」 (gyouretsu) is composed of the kanji 「行」 and 「列」. The first kanji, 「行」 (gyou or kou), means "to go," "path," or "to travel," while the second kanji, 「列」 (retsu), refers to "line," "column," or "row." Together, they form the term that can be literally translated as "advancement line" or "queue." This expression is commonly used in the context of a line or a series of people or objects aligned in sequence.

In Japanese society, queues are an integral part of daily life, reflecting a culture of organization and respect for others' space. 「行列」 is a common sight in various situations, from people patiently waiting in front of popular attractions, renowned restaurants, to bus stops and train stations. The habit of forming well-ordered lines can even be observed in highly populated places, demonstrating a cultural practice of patience and cordiality.

Cultural Curiosities about 「行列」

During special events or electronic product launches, it is common to see long 「行列」 formed at the store doors, with people camping days in advance.
Queues in temples and shrines also reflect the spirit of order and respect, especially during traditional festivals like the New Year.
Television programs often show disputes over requests or waits in 「行列」 of famous culinary establishments in Japan.

Furthermore, starting from the same semantic root, the word 「行列」 can be used in the field of mathematics to describe a matrix, which is an arrangement of numbers or symbols in rows and columns. This usage takes advantage of the fundamental notion of organization and structure implicit in the formation of queues to represent data in a practical and systematic way. Thus, the word carries a versatile meaning that transcends its everyday use.

Synonyms and similar words

列挙 (retsu-kyou) - Listing; enumeration of items.
並び (narabi) - Alignment; arrangement; sequence.
配列 (hairetsu) - Arrangement; an orderly arrangement, typically in a specific format.
行 (gyou) - Line; row; can refer to a set of items arranged in a line.
隊列 (tairetsu) - Formation; an orderly line, especially in a military or group context.