Translation and Meaning of: 駐車 - chuusha

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 駐車 (ちゅうしゃ). It appears on signs, in conversations, and even in animes, but what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this word in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will see how it is written in kanji and some tips for memorizing it efficiently.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you will find detailed explanations about terms like 駐車, but here we go beyond the basic definition. Discover how this word connects with Japanese culture, where it is most commonly used, and why it is so important for those driving in Japan. Shall we begin?

Meaning and use of 駐車

The word 駐車 (ちゅうしゃ) means "to park" or "parking" in Japanese. It is composed of the kanjis 駐 (to stop, to park) and 車 (car), forming a term that describes the action of leaving a vehicle in a location temporarily. Unlike 停車 (ていしゃ), which refers to stopping a moving vehicle, 駐車 implies leaving the car parked for a longer period.

In Japan, this word is found in various contexts, from traffic signs to parking machines. If you have visited the country, you have probably seen notices like 駐車禁止 (ちゅうしゃきんし), which means "no parking." Knowing how to recognize this term can help you avoid fines and unpleasant situations, especially in urban areas where space is limited.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The kanji 駐 has its origins in ancient Chinese and carries the meaning of "to stop" or "to stay in one place." It is composed of the radical 馬 (horse) and the component 主 (lord, main), suggesting the idea of a horse being contained or stopped. On the other hand, the kanji 車 represents "car" or "vehicle," a character commonly found in words related to transportation.

Together, these kanjis form 駐車, a term that reflects the evolution of the Japanese language by incorporating modern concepts. Although originally associated with carriages and horses, today the word is used almost exclusively for motor vehicles. This adaptation shows how Japanese maintains historical roots while updating for the contemporary world.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 駐車 is to associate the kanji 車 with "car" and think of 駐 as "to stop." Visualizing a parking sign with these characters can help cement the meaning. Another tip is to practice with simple phrases, such as ここに駐車できますか？ (Can I park here?), which are useful for trips or daily life in Japan.

It's worth remembering that 駐車 does not apply to bicycles or motorcycles, which have specific terms like 駐輪 (ちゅうりん). Using the word correctly avoids confusion, especially in cities where parking regulations are strict. If you are studying Japanese, including 駐車 in your vocabulary is essential for communicating accurately in real situations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 駐車場 (Chuusha jou) - Designated area for vehicle parking.
• 駐車スペース (Chuusha supesu) - Specific space to park a vehicle.
• 駐車場所 (Chuusha basho) - Location where the vehicle can be parked.
• 駐車場合 (Chuusha baai) - Conditions or circumstances relating to parking.
• 駐車エリア (Chuusha eria) - Area intended for parking, usually in a larger location.

駐車

Romaji: chuusha
Kana: ちゅうしゃ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: Parking (for example, car)

Meaning in English: parking (e.g. car)

Definition: To temporarily stop a vehicle.

Example Sentences - (駐車) chuusha

See below some example sentences:

駐車場に車を停めてください。

Chuushajou ni kuruma wo tomete kudasai

Please park the car in the parking lot.

Please park your car in the parking lot.

• 駐車場 (chūshajō) - parking lot
• に (ni) - particle indicating the place where the action is to be carried out
• 車 (kuruma) - car
• を (wo) - Particle indicating the direct object of the action
• 停めて (tomete) - verb "estacionar" in the imperative
• ください (kudasai) - Expression of a polite request or solicitation