Translation and Meaning of: 上演 - jyouen

The Japanese word 上演[じょうえん] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, everyday usage, and cultural context, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese use this term in daily life or in what situations it appears, keep reading to find out.

Meaning and use of 上演 [じょうえん]

Jōen [じょうえん] is a noun that means "staging," "presentation," or "performance," usually related to theatrical plays, shows, or artistic events. It is composed of the kanjis 上 (jō, "above" or "superior") and 演 (en, "to act" or "to perform"), suggesting the idea of elevating a performance for the audience.

In everyday life, this word appears in contexts such as announcements for theater performances, TV programs about the performing arts, or even in conversations about cultural events. For example, it is common to see posters advertising "新作劇の上演" (shinsaku geki no jōen, "performance of a new play"). Its use is more formal, being less frequent in casual conversations.

Cultural context and frequency of use

In Japan, 上演[じょうえん] is strongly tied to traditional performing arts, such as kabuki and nō, but it also applies to contemporary productions. Unlike terms like 公演 (kōen), which can refer to concerts or musical performances, 上演 is more specific to dramatic or theatrical performances.

Although it is not an everyday word, it has a remarkable presence in cultural materials, such as theater programs, artistic reviews, and even in discussions about adaptations of manga or anime to the stage. If you are a fan of Japanese culture, you have probably encountered this term at some point.

Tips for memorizing 上演 [じょうえん]

An effective way to fix this word is to associate it with cultural events you already know. For example, think of a famous play like "Hamlet" and imagine the poster written "ハムレットの上演" (Hamuretto no jōen). This visual connection helps to embed the term in your vocabulary.

Another tip is to remember that the kanjis 上 and 演 appear in other related words, such as 上演時間 (jōen jikan, "performance duration") or 再上演 (sai jōen, "reperformance"). Creating flashcards with practical examples can also be helpful for those studying Japanese.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 公演 (Kouen) - Public presentation, usually of theater or music.
• 演じる (Enjiru) - To act, to portray a role in a play or movie.
• 演奏する (Ensou suru) - Playing a musical instrument, performing a music performance.
• 演出する (Enshutsu suru) - Direct or produce a play, film, or presentation.
• 演技する (Engi suru) - Performing a performance; it can refer to acting skills.
• 演説する (Enzetsu suru) - Giving a speech or lecture, usually in a public or political context.

上演

Romaji: jyouen
Kana: じょうえん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Performance (for example, music)

Meaning in English: performance (e.g. music)

Definition: To perform or act in public events, such as theater plays or films.

Example Sentences - (上演) jyouen

See below some example sentences:

この劇は明日から上演されます。

Kono geki wa ashita kara jōen sa remasu

This piece will be presented starting tomorrow.

This performance will take place starting tomorrow.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 劇 - noun that means "play" or "drama"
• は - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, in this case, "this play"
• 明日 - substantive that means "tomorrow"
• から - particle that indicates the starting point of an action, in this case, "from"
• 上演 - verb that means "to present (a play, a concert, etc.)"
• されます - passive and polite form of the verb "suru", which means "to do" or "to perform"