Translation and Meaning of: 存在 - sonzai

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 存在[そんざい]. It carries a deep meaning and is used in philosophical, everyday contexts, and even in works of fiction. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is written, and some practical examples of use. Additionally, we will understand how the Japanese perceive it in their daily lives and the best ways to memorize it.

Meaning and translation of 存在

The word 存在[そんざい] can be translated as "existence" or "being." It is used to refer to the presence of something or someone in the world, whether in a concrete or abstract form. For example, when talking about the existence of life on other planets, a Japanese person would use 存在 to express this idea.

Unlike some words that have more literal meanings, 存在 carries a philosophical weight. It appears in discussions about metaphysics, religion, and even in everyday conversations when someone questions the purpose of something. Its use is not limited to physical objects – it can be applied to concepts, feelings, and even to natural phenomena.

Origin and writing in kanji

The term 存在 is composed of two kanji: 存 (to exist, to keep) and 在 (to be present, to reside). Together, they reinforce the idea of something that not only exists but also occupies a space or has relevance. The first kanji, 存, also appears in words like 保存[ほぞん] (preservation), while 在 is found in terms like 在宅[ざいたく] (to be at home).

This combination is not random. In the Japanese language, many abstract concepts are formed by the union of kanjis that, individually, have related meanings. In the case of 存在, the combination of these ideograms creates a word that goes beyond mere physical presence, encompassing the notions of permanence and essence.

Cultural use and frequency in Japanese

存在 is a common word in Japanese vocabulary, appearing in both profound discussions and everyday situations. For example, in animes and mangas, it is often used in dialogues that involve existential questions or the search for a purpose. Characters may say things like "私の存在には意味があるのか" (Does my existence have any meaning?).

In daily life, the Japanese use 存在 in a more practical way. It can be used to affirm that something exists ("その店はまだ存在する" – "That store still exists") or to talk about someone's presence in a group. The word also appears in expressions like 存在感[そんざいかん] (sense of presence), used to describe people who draw attention with their charisma or impact.

Tips for memorizing 存在

An effective way to remember this word is to associate it with its philosophical meaning. Think of phrases like "Existence precedes essence," a famous concept from existentialism. This connection helps to fix not only the translation but also the context in which 存在 is used.

Another tip is to practice with real examples. Watching Japanese movies or series that address existential themes can help identify how the word is used naturally. Repeating aloud phrases like "人間の存在は不思議だ" (Human existence is mysterious) also reinforces memorization.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

在り方 (Ari kata) - Way of being or existing.
実在 (Jitsuzai) - Reality; concrete existence.
存在感 (Sonzai kan) - Presence; the feeling of existence that something or someone conveys.
存在する (Sonzai suru) - To exist; to be present.
存在感じる (Sonzai kanjiru) - Feel the existence; perceive the presence of something.
存在感覚 (Sonzai kankaku) - Sense of presence; perception of existence.
存在意識 (Sonzai ishiki) - Awareness of existence.
存在性 (Sonzai sei) - Nature of existence.
存在感ある (Sonzai kan aru) - To have presence; to possess a significant characteristic.
存在感を感じる (Sonzai kan o kanjiru) - Feel the presence of something.
存在感を持つ (Sonzai kan o motsu) - To have presence; to have a noticeable impact.
存在感を表現する (Sonzai kan o hyōgen suru) - Express the presence; convey a sense of existence.
存在感を与える (Sonzai kan o ataeru) - To be present; to create a sense of existence in others.
存在感を演出する (Sonzai kan o ensū suru) - Stage the presence; create an atmosphere where the presence is notable.
存在感を感じさせる (Sonzai kan o kanjisaseru) - Make someone feel the presence; impress with the sensation of existing.
存在感を強める (Sonzai kan o tsuyomeru) - Intensify presence; enhance the sense of existence.
存在感を表す (Sonzai kan o arawasu) - To represent presence; to manifest a sense of existence.
存在感を感じること (Sonzai kan o kanjiru koto) - The act of feeling the presence; the experience of perceiving existence.
存在感を持った (Sonzai kan o motta) - It had presence; it manifested a striking sense of existence.
存在感を感じるようになる (Sonzai kan o kanjiru yō ni naru) - Start to feel the presence; develop the perception of existence.
存在感を感じさせるようになる (Sonzai kan o kanjisaseru yō ni naru) - Start making others feel your presence; develop the ability to impact with the sense of existence.
存在感を表現すること (Sonzai kan o hyōgen suru koto) - The act of expressing presence; the practice of manifesting a sense of existence.