Translation and Meaning of: 清算 - seisan

The Japanese word 清算 (せいさん, seisan) is a versatile term that appears in financial, accounting, and even everyday contexts. If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the meaning and use of this expression, this article will explore everything from its origin to practical applications. Let's understand how it is perceived in the Japanese language, its frequency in conversations, and tips for memorizing it effectively.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 清算, we will see how it relates to cultural and social aspects of Japan. Whether to settle accounts, resolve pending matters, or even in more metaphorical contexts, this word carries interesting nuances. Stay tuned to discover everything you need to know about 清算, including examples and curiosities based on reliable sources.

Meaning and usage of 清算

Seisan (清算) can be translated as "liquidation," "settlement," or "closure." In a financial context, it refers to the process of settling debts or finalizing transactions. For example, in a restaurant, when asking for the bill, you might hear something like "お清算をお願いします" (please, proceed with the settlement). Outside of the business world, it can also mean resolving an outstanding situation, such as ending a conflict or relationship.

The term is composed of the kanji 清 (clean, pure) and 算 (calculation), reinforcing the idea of a "final calculation" or "clean settlement." This combination helps to understand why the word is often associated with transparency and conclusion. Unlike 支払い (payment), which indicates a continuous process, 清算 carries a sense of definitive finalization.

Origin and Evolution of the term

The word 清算 has roots in modern Japanese, but its kanji refers back to classical Chinese. The character 清 was once used to describe purity or clarity, while 算 was linked to accounting and mathematics. Together, they came to represent the idea of "clear settlement" or "final balance." Over time, the term expanded to contexts beyond the financial, such as in "清算する" (to settle a matter).

During the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan underwent economic and legal reforms, 清算 gained even more relevance. It was used in official documents to describe debt restructuring processes and contract termination. To this day, it retains this connection with formality and precision, being common in contracts and commercial agreements.

Tips for memorizing 清算

An effective way to remember 清算 is to associate it with everyday situations. Imagine yourself in an izakaya (Japanese bar) asking for the bill: "清算お願いします" sounds natural and helps you remember the term. Another tip is to recall that the kanjis 清 + 算 create the image of a "clean calculation," like when you settle all your bills at the end of the month.

For those who use flashcards or apps like Anki, including phrases like "プロジェクトを清算した" (I closed the project) can be useful. According to studies on language learning, associating words with real contexts increases retention by up to 70%. It is also worth practicing the writing of kanjis, as their simple structure facilitates memorization.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 決算 (Kessan) - Closing accounts, financial results assessment.
• 精算 (Seisan) - Settle, adjust expenses or accounts; it may refer to a detailed process of account verification.
• リキッドエーション (Rikiddoeション) - Liquidation, usually in the context of selling assets or closing a business.

清算

Romaji: seisan
Kana: せいさん
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: sale off; settlement

Meaning in English: liquidation;settlement

Definition: Settlement and organization of inheritances, assets, etc.

Example Sentences - (清算) seisan

See below some example sentences:

清算が完了しました。

Seisan ga kanryou shimashita

The settlement was completed.

The settlement was completed.

• 清算 (seisan) - liquidation
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 完了 (kanryou) - conclusion
• しました (shimashita) - past tense of the verb "to do"