Translation and Meaning of: 警部 - keibu
The Japanese word 警部[けいぶ] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries specific meanings and uses that are worth exploring. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about terms related to police hierarchy in Japan, understanding what this word represents is essential. In this article, we will uncover its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese, as well as provide practical examples to reinforce learning.
In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 警部 is defined as a term that designates a rank within the Japanese police, equivalent to inspector or superintendent in some countries. But does its use go beyond the professional context? How does it appear in animes, dramas, or even in everyday conversations? Let's find out together.
Meaning and use of 警部
The term 警部 refers to a police rank in Japan, specifically an officer of intermediate level within the hierarchy. In terms of equivalence, it can be compared to the rank of inspector in some Western police forces. Those occupying this position are typically involved in more complex investigations or in the supervision of teams.
In everyday life, it is common to come across this term in news about crimes, police series, or even in conversations about careers in public security. An interesting detail is that, unlike some Japanese words that have metaphorical uses, 警部 maintains its meaning quite literally and specifically within the police context.
Origin and writing of kanji
The composition of 警部 is formed by two kanjis: 警 (kei), which means "alert" or "vigilance," and 部 (bu), which can be translated as "section" or "department." Together, they form a word that aptly reflects its function: a department or position dedicated to maintaining order and security.
It is worth noting that, although the second kanji (部) is common in other words such as 部屋 (heya - room) or 部分 (bubun - part), in 警部 it takes on a more organizational meaning. This is a characteristic of Japanese, where the same kanji can have different nuances depending on the context in which it appears.
Inspector in Japanese culture
Anyone who consumes crime dramas or Japanese anime has probably come across characters called 警部. They are usually figures of authority, often in charge of important cases. A famous example is the character Kogoro Mouri from the anime Detective Conan, who, although not the most competent, holds that title.
In real life, reaching the rank of 警部 is a milestone in the Japanese police career. It requires years of service and, in many cases, passing specific exams. This importance is reflected in the respect that Japanese society has for this position, seen as crucial for maintaining public order.
Vocabulary
Expand your vocabulary with related words:
Synonyms and similar words
- 刑事 (Keiji) - Detective, investigator (usually works on criminal cases)
- 捜査官 (Sousakan) - Investigation officer (usually in a more authoritative or supervisory position)
- 警察官 (Keisatsukan) - Police officer (police official, with patrolling and security functions)
- 警視 (Keishi) - Police commissioner (a high-level position in the police structure)
- 警部補 (Keibuho) - Sub-commissioner of police (position below that of commissioner, usually responsible for a unit or team)
Romaji: keibu
Kana: けいぶ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1
Translation / Meaning: police inspector
Meaning in English: police inspector
Definition: Chief of the police department or police station.
Quick Access
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Sentences
How to Write in Japanese - (警部) keibu
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (警部) keibu:
Example Sentences - (警部) keibu
See below some example sentences:
Keibu wa jiken no sousa wo tantou shiteimasu
The inspector is responsible for investigating the case.
The inspector is responsible for investigating the case.
- 警部 (Keibu) - Title of a high-ranking Japanese police officer
- は (wa) - Topic particle that indicates that the subject of the sentence is "警部".
- 事件 (jiken) - Incident or case
- の (no) - Possessive particle that indicates that the "jiken" is the object of the action.
- 捜査 (sousa) - Investigation
- を (wo) - Object particle that indicates that "sousa" is the direct object of the action
- 担当しています (tantou shiteimasu) - You are in charge of
Other Words of this Type: noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: noun
