Translation and Meaning of: 速達 - sokutatsu

If you've ever needed to send something urgently in Japan, you've probably come across the word 速達[そくたつ]. But what does it actually mean? In this article, we'll explore everything from its basic meaning to interesting facts about its use in everyday Japanese. You'll discover how this word appears in real contexts, its origin, and even tips to memorize it effectively. Here at Suki Nihongo, our detailed dictionary helps you master terms like this without any hassle.

Meaning and use of 速達 in Japan

速達 is composed of two kanji: 速 (fast) and 達 (to reach). Together, they convey the idea of "express delivery" or "rapid mail." In Japan, this service is widely used to send documents or packages with priority. Companies like Japan Post offer 速達 as an option for those who need to ensure that a item arrives within 24 hours.

Unlike regular deliveries, そくたつ usually has an additional cost. If you have seen advertisements from Japanese online stores, you have probably noticed phrases like "Please use the express service" (速達便をご利用ください). This detail shows how the word is integrated into the country's commerce and logistics.

Origin and components of kanjis

The combination 速 + 達 is not random. The kanji 速 appears in other words related to speed, such as 高速 (kou soku - high speed). Meanwhile, 達 is the same character used in 配達 (hai tatsu - delivery). This logical construction helps to understand why the Japanese immediately associate そくたつ with expedited postal services.

It is worth noting that 速達 is a relatively modern term that emerged with the organization of the post during the Meiji period. Before that, urgent messages relied on couriers or systems like hikyaku (飛脚), which used physical messengers. The term reflects the efficiency that Japan still values today in essential services.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

A practical way to remember 速達 is to associate it with real situations. Imagine needing to send an urgent contract to Tokyo - you would say "速達でお願いします" (please send it express). This type of concrete context helps more than memorizing in isolation.

Interestingly, そくたつ appears frequently in Japanese dramas involving business or suspense. Scenes of characters receiving important documents via 速達 are almost a cliché. This media exposure reinforces how the term is embedded in Japan's corporate culture.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 急送 (Kyūsō) - Urgent shipment
• 特急 (Tokkyū) - Special express (usually refers to fast transport services)
• 迅速配達 (Jinsoku haitatsu) - Fast delivery
• 緊急配達 (Kinkyū haitatsu) - Emergency delivery
• スピード配達 (Supīdo haitatsu) - High-speed delivery
• スピード便 (Supīdo bin) - Fast delivery service

速達

Romaji: sokutatsu
Kana: そくたつ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: express; special delivery

Meaning in English: express;special delivery

Definition: A service that delivers packages quickly.

Example Sentences - (速達) sokutatsu

See below some example sentences:

速達で送ってください。

Sokutatsu de okutte kudasai

Please send by express delivery.

Please send by express.

• 速達 - urgent, urgent
• で - particle indicating means, method
• 送って - send in the imperative
• ください - please, request for expression