Translation and Meaning of: 選考 - senkou

The Japanese word 選考[せんこう] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries important nuances in everyday life and culture in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the meaning and usage of this term, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore everything from the literal translation to the context in which 選考 is used, including tips for memorization and practical examples. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for those who wish to learn Japanese efficiently.

What does 選考 mean and how to use it?

選考[せんこう] is a noun that means "selection" or "selection process," often used in formal contexts such as recruitment, competitions, or evaluations. Unlike more generic words like 選択[せんたく] (choice), 選考 implies a more rigorous criterion, almost always involving analysis or judgment. For example, in Japanese companies, 採用選考[さいようせんこう] refers to the selection process for job candidates.

An interesting characteristic is that 選考 rarely appears alone in daily life. It usually comes accompanied by other kanji that specify the type of selection, such as 書類選考[しょるいせんこう] (document screening) or 最終選考[さいしゅうせんこう] (final selection phase). This usage pattern helps to understand why the word is more common in professional or academic environments than in informal conversations.

The origin and components of 選考

Analyzing the kanjis individually, 選 means "to select" or "to choose," while 考 can be translated as "to consider" or "to think." Together, they reinforce the idea of a thoughtful choice, not a random one. The combination appears in formal texts since the Edo period, but gained popularity in the 20th century with the bureaucratization of selection processes in Japan.

It is worth noting that 考 is also used in words like 思考[しこう] (thinking) and 考察[こうさつ] (investigation), which helps to memorize its meaning. For those studying kanji, noticing these patterns is useful. The writing of 選考 is not considered difficult by native Japanese speakers, but it can challenge foreign students due to the strokes of 選, which has 15 strokes.

Selection in Japanese culture and society

In Japan, where selection processes are taken extremely seriously, 選考 reflects values such as merit and preparation. Famous companies like Toyota and Sony have rigorous selection stages that can last for months. This strictness is not limited to the job market: even school activities and university clubs can adopt formal selection systems.

Interestingly, the word also appears in unexpected contexts. Some sports or competition animes, such as "Haikyuu!!" or "Food Wars!", use terms derived from 選考 to describe qualifying tournaments. This media usage helps to solidify the vocabulary, showing how it permeates different aspects of Japanese life.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

選抜 (Senbatsu) - Selection, usually used in contexts of competitions or events where the best are chosen.
選定 (Senten) - Selection, emphasis on the act of choosing or determining a specific option among various ones.
選出 (Senshutsu) - Selection, often referring to the process of electing or appointing individuals to positions or roles.
選定試験 (Senten Shiken) - Selection exam, a test used to determine suitable candidates for a position or role.
選考試験 (Senko Shiken) - Selection exam, a test used to evaluate candidates in a selection process.