Translation and Meaning of: 主権 - shuken

The Japanese word 主権 [しゅけん] is a term that carries deep meanings and specific applications in the language. If you are looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to use it in real contexts, this article will explore all of this clearly and directly. Moreover, we will see how this word is perceived in Japan, its frequency in daily life, and tips for memorizing it correctly.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you will find detailed explanations about terms like 主権, but here we go beyond the basic definition. Let's dive into its cultural usage, practical examples, and even curiosities that can aid in your Japanese learning. Whether for studies or sheer curiosity, this guide will provide you with a complete understanding of this word.

Meaning and origin of 主権

Sovereignty [しゅけん] is composed of two kanji: 主 (shu), which means "main" or "master", and 権 (ken), which can be translated as "right" or "authority". Together, they form a term that represents "sovereignty" or "supreme authority". This word is often used in political and legal contexts, such as in discussions about the sovereignty of a country or the rights of an individual.

The concept of 主権 has roots in Western political philosophy but was adapted to the Japanese context during the country's modernization in the Meiji period. Since then, it has become an integral part of the political and social vocabulary in Japan, appearing in official documents, debates, and even in the media.

Everyday and cultural use

Although it is a more formal term, 主権 (shuken) is not limited to academic or political texts. It can appear in news, speeches, and even in discussions about individual rights. For example, the expression 国家の主権 (kokka no shuken) refers to national sovereignty, a recurring theme in debates on international relations.

In Japan, the idea of sovereignty is also connected to cultural values, such as respect for hierarchy and authority. This causes the word 主権 to carry significant weight, being used carefully in everyday conversations. Its excessive use may sound very technical, so it is common to see it more in specific contexts than in informal dialogues.

Tips for memorizing 主権

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate its kanjis with familiar images or concepts. For example, 主 (shu) can be remembered as the figure of a "master" or "leader," while 権 (ken) refers to "rights" or "power." Combining the two, you get the idea of "main authority," which is the essence of 主権.

Another tip is to practice with real examples, like sentences from news articles or documents. Hearing the word in authentic contexts helps to consolidate its meaning and pronunciation. If you are studying Japanese, including 主権 in your flashcards or vocabulary lists can be a great way to reinforce learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

主権 (Shuken) - Success or supreme authority of a state, internal control.
主権力 (Shukenryoku) - The power associated with sovereignty, the capacity to govern.
主権性 (Shukensei) - Quality or condition of being sovereign.
主権的地位 (Shukenteki chii) - Sovereign position, sovereign status.
主権国家 (Shuken kokka) - Sovereign state, a country that exercises its own authority.
主権者 (Shuken-sha) - Individual or entity that holds sovereignty.
主権意識 (Shuken ishiki) - Awareness of sovereignty, perception of one's own authority.
主権主義 (Shuken shugi) - Doctrine or philosophy that defends sovereignty.
主権独立 (Shuken dokuritsu) - Sovereign independence, total autonomy.
主権回復 (Shuken kaifuku) - Restore or recover sovereignty.
国家主権 (Kokka shuken) - State sovereignty, supreme authority of a state.
国家権力 (Kokka kenryoku) - State power, authority exercised by the government.
国家権利 (Kokka kenri) - State rights, legal prerogatives of a government.