Translation and Meaning of: 障子 - shouji

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

Romaji: shouji

Kana: しょうじ

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n2

障子

Translation / Meaning: Sliding paper

Meaning in English: paper sliding door

Definition: Shoji: A panel made of paper or fabric used as a divider in a Japanese-style room.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (障子) shouji

The term 「障子」 (shouji) refers to traditional Japanese sliding doors or dividers, commonly found in traditional Japanese homes known as "washitsu." These structures are often made of a wooden frame covered with translucent paper. The utility of shouji goes beyond just dividing spaces; it also allows for the control of natural lighting and provides an incredible sense of space and lightness in interiors.

Etymologically, the word 「障子」 is composed of two kanji. The first kanji, 「障」 (shou), means "to block" or "to obstruct," and the second kanji, 「子」 (ji), is a common suffix in objects, not providing a direct meaning for the word but aiding in the construction of the compound noun. Therefore, in a broad sense, the word suggests a flexible barrier that can separate or divide a space but allows light to pass through and the perception of what is beyond the wall.

Historically, shouji emerged as an architectural solution in medieval Japan, influenced by both climatic needs and the spatial restrictions of buildings. Unlike heavy wooden or stone walls, shouji provided the flexibility to quickly transform a room according to the moment's needs - whether to entertain guests or for a tea ceremony. The practice of using translucent materials allowed for the soft diffusion of sunlight, creating warm and visually expansive interiors.

Although the use of shouji has traditionally been concentrated in residences and structures such as temples and ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), nowadays these architectural elements have been incorporated into modern environments, applying the concept of Japanese design in contemporary interiors around the world. In addition to partitions, the characteristics of shouji - such as functionality and minimalist aesthetics - inspire furniture and decorative elements, capturing the essence of simplicity combined with the beauty of Japanese design. The presence of this architectural element is a tribute to cultural roots and an attempt to maintain historical heritage in harmony with the modern world.

Synonyms and similar words

襖 (fusuma) - Traditional Japanese sliding door, usually made of paper and used as a room divider.
紙障子 (kamishoji) - Shōji made of paper; a lightweight divider that allows light to pass through.
紙戸 (kamido) - Door made of paper, similar to a shōji, but simpler.
和紙戸 (washi do) - Traditional Japanese paper door, using washi, handmade Japanese paper.
紙板戸 (kamibando) - Door made with paper panels, can be used as an alternative to heavier doors.
紙板障子 (kamibanshoji) - Shōji made with paper panels, allowing light in while providing privacy.
紙障 (kamishō) - Generic term that can refer to paper partitions, without specifying the type.
紙の障子 (kami no shōji) - Shōji made of paper; emphasizes that it is made of paper.
和紙の障子 (washi no shōji) - Shōji made of washi paper; highlights the use of traditional Japanese paper.
紙戸の障子 (kamido no shōji) - Shōji that uses a simple paper door as a base.
紙板戸の障子 (kamibando no shōji) - Shōji that incorporates doors made of paper panels.