Translation and Meaning of: 重大 - jyuudai

The Japanese word 重大[じゅうだい] is a term that carries significant weight both in vocabulary and in Japanese culture. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its meaning, usage, and context can be essential to avoid misunderstandings. In this article, we will explore what makes this word so relevant, from its translation to how it is perceived in the daily lives of the Japanese.

Meaning and translation of 重大 [じゅうだい]

重大[じゅうだい] is often translated as "serious," "important," or "significant." It is used to describe situations, events, or issues that have a high level of seriousness or impact. For example, when someone says 重大な問題[じゅうだいなもんだい], they are referring to a "serious problem" or "matter of great importance."

Unlike words like 大切[たいせつ] (which also means "important"), 重大 has a connotation more related to urgency and serious consequences. While 大切 can be used for personal and emotional matters, 重大 generally appears in formal contexts, such as news, official documents, or discussions about risks.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 重大 is composed of two kanji: 重 (juu, omoi) and 大 (dai, ookii). The first, 重, means "heavy" or "important," while 大 means "big" or "vast." Together, they reinforce the idea of something that has great magnitude, whether in physical or abstract terms.

This combination is not random. In Japanese, many terms are formed by the union of kanji that, together, amplify or specify their meaning. In the case of 重大, the combination of "heavy" and "large" creates a word that conveys the notion of something that cannot be ignored or underestimated.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, 重大 is a word that frequently appears in contexts where seriousness is required. It is common in public notices, newspaper headlines, and corporate communications. For example, in situations of natural disasters, you might hear phrases like 重大な災害[じゅうだいなさいがい] ("serious disaster") to alert the public.

Culturally, the use of this word reflects the importance that Japanese society places on responsibility and risk prevention. Businesses and government agencies use it to emphasize the need for attention in critical situations, showing how the language is connected to social values.

Tips to memorize 重大[じゅうだい]

An effective way to retain this word is to associate it with real situations where it would be used. For example, think of news about accidents or important decisions. This connection with specific contexts helps to remember not only the meaning but also the tone of the word.

Another tip is to practice writing the kanji separately. Since 重 and 大 are common characters, knowing them individually makes it easier to learn other terms that utilize them. Additionally, listening to the pronunciation じゅうだい in podcasts or reports can help internalize its sound and proper usage.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 重要 (Jūyō) - Important, of great relevance.
• 深刻 (Shinkoku) - Serious, solemn, with deep significance.
• 決定的 (Ketteiteki) - Decisive, crucial for decision-making.
• 大切 (Taisetsu) - Precious, valuable, important in a more personal context.
• 重要性の高い (Jūyōsei no takai) - Of great importance, emphasizing a high level of relevance.

重大

Romaji: jyuudai
Kana: じゅうだい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: important; heavy

Meaning in English: important;weighty

Definition: The degree of importance of something.

Example Sentences - (重大) jyuudai

See below some example sentences:

この問題は重大な影響を与える可能性がある。

Kono mondai wa juudai na eikyou wo ataeru kanousei ga aru

This issue has the potential to have a significant impact.

This issue can have a significant impact.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 問題 - noun meaning "problem"
• は - topic particle that indicates that what follows is the subject of the sentence
• 重大な - adjective that means "serious" or "severe"
• 影響 - noun that means "influence" or "impact"
• を - object particle that indicates the target of the action
• 与える - verb meaning "to give" or "to grant"
• 可能性 - noun meaning "possibility"
• が - subject particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• ある - verb meaning "to exist" or "to have"