Translation and Meaning of: 余計 - yokei

The Japanese word 「余計」 (yokei) is used to describe something that is excessive or unnecessary. This term is used in various everyday situations to indicate an excess of quantities, actions, or even words. Generally, it refers to anything that exceeds what is necessary or expected, and it can carry a negative connotation depending on the context in which it is employed.

Exploring the etymology of the word, 「余計」 is composed of two kanji. The first, 「余」 (yo), means "excess" or "to remain." The second kanji, 「計」 (kei), means "measure" or "to calculate." Together, they form the idea of something that is beyond what was calculated or measured, retaining the notion of excess or surplus. The combination of these characters reinforces the central idea of excess or something unnecessary.

This word finds its origin in traditional Japanese, where concepts of moderation and balance have always been valued. The use of 「余計」 reflects the cultural aversion to waste and the unnecessary, values that permeate Japanese society and cultural practices. In everyday contexts, the expression can be used for situations like preparing excess food, producing more work than necessary, or talking more than one should.

In variations of the use of 「余計」, we can find expressions like 「余計なこと」 which mean "unnecessary things" or "superfluous things." Similarly, 「余計なお世話」, which can be translated as "unnecessary care," is an expression used to refer to a situation where help or intervention was provided without being requested, sometimes even unwanted, revealing a more complex and rich cultural structure related to the use of this term in social situations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

過剰 (kajō) - Excess, something that is more than what is necessary.
不必要 (fuhitsuyō) - Unnecessary, something that is not needed.
無用 (muyō) - Useless, something that has no utility.
余分 (yobun) - Extra part, a supplement that is not essential.
過多 (kata) - Excess, an amount greater than what is considered normal or necessary.

```