Translation and Meaning of: 独裁 - dokusai

The Japanese word 独裁 (どくさい, dokusai) is a term loaded with political and social meaning, often associated with authoritarian government systems. If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in Japanese culture, understanding the use and origin of this expression can be essential to avoid misunderstandings in conversations or readings. In this article, we will explore the meaning of 独裁, its etymology, how it is perceived in Japan, and tips for memorizing it correctly.

Meaning and Translation of 独裁

独裁 is composed of two kanji: 独 (doku), which means "alone" or "unique," and 裁 (sai), which can be translated as "to judge" or "to govern." Together, these characters form the word that describes a system in which power is concentrated in the hands of a single person or group, with no popular participation. In English, the most common translation is "dictatorship."

It is worth noting that, although the term is used in political contexts, it can also appear in discussions about companies or organizations with extremely centralized hierarchical structures. In Japan, as in other countries, the use of this word usually carries a negative connotation.

Origin and Historical Use

The origin of 独裁 dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan underwent significant political transformations. The term was adopted to describe absolutist governments, both in the Western context and in reference to Japanese historical figures who concentrated excessive power.

Interestingly, the kanji 裁 also appears in words like 裁判 (saiban, "trial"), reinforcing the idea of unilateral decision-making. This connection helps to understand why 独裁 is often associated with regimes that ignore democratic processes.

How to Memorize 独裁

An effective way to fix this word is to associate the kanjis that compose it with its meaning. Imagine someone who rules alone (独) and decides everything (裁) without consulting anyone. This mental image can help remember both the writing and the meaning of the expression.

Another tip is to notice that 独 appears in terms like 独身 (dokushin, "single"), reinforcing the idea of something individual. Meanwhile, 裁 is present in words related to control and decision, such as 裁量 (sairyou, "discretion"). These connections make it easier to memorize Japanese vocabulary in a contextual way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 専制 (Sensei) - Absolute governance; regimes where power is centralized in a single entity or individual.
• 独裁政治 (Dokusai seiji) - Dictatorship policy; a form of government where power is exercised by a dictator, without popular participation.
• 独裁制度 (Dokusai seido) - Dictatorship system; institutional structure that allows the concentration of power in a single leader or party.

独裁

Romaji: dokusai
Kana: どくさい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: dictatorship; despotism

Meaning in English: dictatorship;despotism

Definition: Coercive government of a person or group.

Example Sentences - (独裁) dokusai

See below some example sentences:

独裁は民主主義の敵です。

Dokusai wa minshu shugi no teki desu

The dictatorship is the enemy of democracy.

Dictators are enemies of democracy.

• 独裁 - ditadura
• は - Topic particle
• 民主主義 - democracy
• の - Possession particle
• 敵 - enemy
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present