Translation and Meaning of: 余暇 - yoka

The Japanese word 「余暇」 (yoka) is composed of two kanji: 「余」 which means "excess" or "surplus" and 「暇」 which means "free time" or "leisure." Together, they form the concept of "free time" or "leisure," referring to the time available beyond obligations or routine activities. This combination of characters points to the idea of time that remains after fulfilling responsibilities, allowing for engagement in enjoyable or relaxing activities.

The etymology of 「余暇」 reflects a union of elements that together create a harmonious and specific meaning. The kanji 「余」 (yo) is commonly associated with the idea of something additional or exceeding the necessary, while 「暇」 (ka) refers to the free time that can be filled with personal choices. Historically, this term has been used to describe moments of pause and relaxation, essential for the balance between work and personal life.

In Japan, the notion of 「余暇」 or free time holds considerable cultural importance, especially in contexts where work often dominates daily routines. The concept not only emphasizes the need for rest but also celebrates the opportunity to connect with hobbies, family, and friends. It is interesting to note that the use of kanji in 「余暇」 can also evoke the presence of a free mental space where creativity and reflection are stimulated.

In an increasingly fast-paced world, understanding the importance of 「余暇」 redefines the way we use our time. Whether through reading a good book, engaging in sports, crafting, or simply relaxing, recognizing the value of free time contributes to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Therefore, by incorporating the practice of truly enjoying our moments of 「余暇」, we can find a way to recharge our energies and enjoy an enhanced quality of life.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 空き時間 (Akijikan) - Leisure time generally refers to hours available in a schedule.
• ひま (Hima) - Free time, often used in a more casual sense, referring to moments of leisure.
• フリータイム (Furītai mu) - Free time, used in more modern or informal contexts, can refer to leisure activities without commitment.
• 自由時間 (Jiyūjikan) - Leisure time emphasizes freedom and the absence of obligations during this period.
• 余裕時間 (Yoyūjikan) - Spare time suggests an extra margin of time beyond what is scheduled.

余暇

Romaji: yoka
Kana: よか
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: leisure; leisure time; free time

Meaning in English: leisure;leisure time;spare time

Definition: Free time beyond work or study.

Example Sentences - (余暇) yoka

See below some example sentences:

私は余暇に読書をするのが好きです。

Watashi wa yoka ni dokusho wo suru no ga suki desu

I like to read during my free time.

I like to read my leisure.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates that the subject of the sentence is "I"
• 余暇 (yoka) - noun that means "free time"
• に (ni) - particle that indicates the time in which the action occurs, in this case "during free time"
• 読書 (dokusho) - noun that means "reading"
• を (wo) - particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence, in this case "reading"
• する (suru) - verb that means "to do"
• のが (noga) - particle that indicates the nominal subject function of the sentence, in this case "to read"
• 好き (suki) - adjective meaning "to like"
• です (desu) - auxiliary verb that indicates the polite and affirmative form of the sentence