Translation and Meaning of: 学問 - gakumon

The Japanese word 学問 [がくもん] is a term that carries significant cultural and historical weight. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding the meaning and usage of this expression can open doors to a deeper understanding of the Japanese mentality regarding knowledge. In this article, we will explore what 学問 means, its origin, how it is perceived in Japan, and tips for effectively memorizing it.

In addition to uncovering the literal translation, let's dive into the context in which this word is used, from everyday conversations to academic discussions. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese view study and the pursuit of knowledge, 学問 is a key term for this reflection. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for those who want to truly master Japanese.

The meaning and origin of 学問

学問 [がくもん] is composed of two kanji: 学 (gaku), which means "study" or "learning," and 問 (mon), which can be translated as "question" or "issue." Together, they form a concept that goes beyond the simple act of studying. The word represents the quest for knowledge in a systematic way, often associated with academia, research, or intellectual tradition.

Unlike the term 勉強 (benkyou), which refers to studying in a more practical and everyday sense, 学問 carries a higher connotation. While 勉強 can be used to talk about studying for a test, 学問 is related to disciplines such as philosophy, sciences, or arts on a deeper level. This distinction is important for anyone who wants to use the word correctly.

How 学問 is perceived in Japanese culture

In Japan, 学問 is not just a word—it's a value. Since the Edo period, when Confucianism schools flourished, to modern universities, the idea of dedicating oneself to knowledge has always been highly respected. Many Japanese families still encourage their children to delve into 学問 as a path to success and personal fulfillment.

It is worth noting that, although the term is used in formal contexts, it also appears in popular expressions. For example, 学問のすゝめ (Gakumon no Susume), the title of a famous essay from the Meiji period, means "encouragement to learning" and reflects the importance placed on education in Japanese society. This type of usage shows how the word is rooted in the country's mindset.

Tips for memorizing and using 学問 correctly

An effective way to fix 学問 in memory is to associate it with familiar images or concepts. Think of the kanji 学 as a roof (representing school) and 問 as a mouth beneath a gate (symbolizing questions). Together, they form the idea of "asking questions under the roof of knowledge," which nicely captures the essence of the word.

When using 学問 in sentences, remember that it fits better in academic or philosophical contexts. For example, saying "彼は学問に励んでいる" (Kare wa gakumon ni hageminde iru) — "He is dedicated to academic studies" — sounds more natural than using it to talk about homework. Noticing this nuance will make all the difference in your Japanese.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 学術 (Gakujutsu) - Science or academic discipline.
• 学問 (Gakumon) - Study or research, with an emphasis on knowledge.
• 学識 (Gakushiki) - Knowledge or scholarship acquired through studies.
• 学業 (Gakugei) - Academic activities or studies.
• 学究 (Gakkyuu) - In-depth study or intensive research.
• 学問分野 (Gakumon bunya) - Field or area of academic study.
• 学問領域 (Gakumon ryōiki) - Sphere or domain of academic knowledge.
• 学問分類 (Gakumon bunrui) - Classification of subjects or fields of study.
• 学問体系 (Gakumon taikei) - System or structure of fields of knowledge.
• 学問分科 (Gakumon bunka) - Fun or subdivision of academic disciplines.

学問

Romaji: gakumon
Kana: がくもん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: scholarship; study; learning

Meaning in English: scholarship;study;learning

Definition: Research and learn knowledge and technology.

Example Sentences - (学問) gakumon

See below some example sentences:

学問は人生の宝物です。

Gakumon wa jinsei no takaramono desu

Knowledge is a treasure in life.

Academic is a treasure of life.

• 学問 - means "study" or "knowledge acquired through study".
• は - topic particle, indicating that the subject of the sentence is "study".
• 人生 - means "human life."
• の - possession particle, indicating that "human life" is the possessor of the treasure.
• 宝物 - means "treasure".
• です - verb to be in the present tense, indicating that "study" is a treasure in human life.

考古学は歴史を知るために重要な学問です。

Kōkogaku wa rekishi o shiru tame ni jūyōna gakumon desu

Archaeology is an important discipline for understanding history.

Archaeology is an important learning tool to understand history.

• 考古学 - archaeology
• は - Topic particle
• 歴史 - history
• を - direct object particle
• 知る - to know, to be familiar with
• ために - in order to
• 重要な - important
• 学問 - academic discipline
• です - verb "to be" (in the present)

地理はとても興味深い学問です。

Chiri wa totemo kyoumi fukai gakumon desu

Geography is a very interesting subject.

Geography is a very interesting study.

• 地理 - geography
• は - Topic particle
• とても - very
• 興味深い - interesting
• 学問 - academic discipline
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present

哲学は人生の意味を探求する学問です。

Tetsugaku wa jinsei no imi o tankyū suru gakumon desu

Philosophy is the study that seeks the meaning of life.

Philosophy is a study that explores the meaning of life.

• 哲学 - philosophy
• は - Topic particle
• 人生 - human life
• の - Possession particle
• 意味 - Meaning
• を - direct object particle
• 探求する - investigate, explore
• 学問 - academic discipline
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present

医学は人々の健康を守るために重要な学問です。

Igaku wa hitobito no kenkō o mamoru tame ni jūyōna gakumon desu

Medicine is an important study to protect people's health.

• 医学 - medicine
• は - Topic particle
• 人々 - people
• の - Possessive particle
• 健康 - health
• を - direct object particle
• 守る - protect
• ために - for
• 重要な - important
• 学問 - academic discipline
• です - Verb to be/estar