Translation and Meaning of: 返答 - hentou

Etimologia e Formação

The Japanese word 「返答」 (hentou) is composed of two kanji characters: 「返」 and 「答」. The kanji 「返」 (hen) means "to return" or "to respond," while 「答」 (tou) means "answer" or "solution." Together, these characters form an expression that means "response" or "reply." The combination of these kanji is a classic example of how the Japanese language merges ideas to create new concepts, reflecting the action of returning communication to the party that initiated it.

Definition and Usage

"「返答」 (hentou) is used to describe a response to a question or request. It can be a verbal or written reaction, being an essential part of everyday interactions. This word is often used in both formal and informal communication contexts, making it a fundamental part of the Japanese vocabulary. It is common to hear 「返答」 in business meetings, in formal correspondence, and even in casual conversations among friends."

Variações e Contexto Histórico

Historically, the practice of formal and detailed responses has a long tradition in Japan, reflecting the cultural value placed on polite and precise communication. Variations of the word, such as 「応答」 (outou), which also means "response" or "reply," can be used in specific contexts, such as phone calls or radios. This diversity in word choice underscores the richness of the Japanese language in expressing nuances in different situations.

Cultural importance

In Japanese culture, giving an appropriate 「返答」 is seen as a demonstration of respect and consideration. This aligns with the importance of "tatemae" (the public facade) and "honne" (the true feelings) in Japanese society. The ability to provide a suitable response often reflects social awareness and cultural sensitivity, essential for maintaining harmony in interpersonal relationships.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 回答 (Kaitō) - Answer, generally used in formal or technical contexts.
• 返事 (Henji) - Response, commonly used in everyday contexts, such as in informal dialogues.
• 応答 (Ōtō) - Response or reaction, commonly used in situations involving communication or interaction, such as in a dialogue or a consultation.

返答

Romaji: hentou
Kana: へんとう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: answer

Meaning in English: reply

Definition: "Responder" means to reply to a question or request.

Example Sentences - (返答) hentou

See below some example sentences:

返答をお待ちしております。

Hentou wo omachi shiteorimasu

I am waiting for your answer.

We are looking forward to your answer.

• 返答 - means "response" in Japanese.
• を - It is a particle of the object in Japanese, indicating that "response" is the object of the sentence.
• お待ちしております - it is a polite expression in Japanese that means "I am waiting."

回答をお願いします。

Kaitō o onegaishimasu

Please give me an answer.

• 回答 - means "response" in Japanese.
• を - Object particle in Japanese.
• お願いします - The polite request expression in Japanese can be translated as "please" or "thank you in advance".