Translation and Meaning of: 上達 - jyoutatsu

The Japanese word 上達[じょうたつ] is a fascinating term that carries deep meanings related to personal growth and improvement. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the culture of the country, understanding this expression can open doors to a richer view of the Japanese mindset. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, everyday use, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides this information so you can learn with precision and context.

Meaning and Translation of 上達

上達 [じょうたつ] is commonly translated as "improvement," "progress," or "refinement." It describes the act of evolving in a skill, whether in language learning, sports, or even arts. Unlike simply "practicing," 上達 implies a measurable and intentional advancement.

It is worth noting that this word is often used in self-improvement contexts. For example, a teacher might say to a student: "Your Japanese has improved, hasn’t it?" This kind of encouragement is common in Japan, where continuous effort is highly valued.

Origin and Components of Kanji

The writing of 上達 is composed of two kanjis: 上 (jō/shō), which means "above" or "superior", and 達 (tatsu), which can indicate "to reach" or "to arrive". Together, they convey the idea of rising to a higher level, whether in knowledge or skill.

It is interesting to note that the kanji 達 also appears in words like 達人 (tatsujin), which means "expert" or "master." This connection reinforces the concept that 上達 is not just about practice, but about reaching a level of excellence.

Cultural Use and Social Context

In Japan, the idea of 上達 is deeply connected to values such as perseverance (頑張る) and discipline. Martial arts, tea ceremonies, and even hobbies like calligraphy follow the philosophy that constant improvement is an endless path.

Furthermore, the word is often used in educational and corporate environments. Japanese companies, for example, encourage employees to seek 上達 in their roles, often through training and constant feedback. This aspect reflects the importance of continuous growth in Japanese society.

Tips for Memorizing 上達

An effective way to solidify 上達 is to associate it with real situations. Think of something you are trying to improve, like cooking or playing an instrument, and create sentences like "I want to improve at the piano" (ピアノが上達したい). Repeating this kind of construction helps internalize the term.

Another tip is to focus on the radicals of kanji. Remember that 上 (up) + 達 (to reach) form the idea of "leveling up." This visual decomposition makes it easier to memorize both the writing and the meaning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 向上 (Kōjō) - Enhancement, improvement
• 上昇 (Jōshō) - Rise, elevation, ascent
• 上進 (Jōshin) - Advancement, progress (associated with promotions, ascension)
• 進歩 (Shinpo) - Progress, evolution (in the sense of development)
• 進展 (Shinten) - Development, progress (in a broader context, such as projects)

上達

Romaji: jyoutatsu
Kana: じょうたつ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: improvement; advance; progress

Meaning in English: improvement;advance;progress

Definition: do. Improve.

Example Sentences - (上達) jyoutatsu

See below some example sentences:

素人でも練習すれば上達する。

Sujin demo renshuu sureba joutatsu suru

Even being an amateur

If you practice even amateurs, it will improve.

• 素人 - means "amateur" or "beginner".
• でも - is a particle that can be translated as "but" or "however".
• 練習 - means "practice" or "training".
• すれば - is a conditional form of the verb "suru", which means "to do". In this case, the conditional form indicates that something will happen if a certain condition is met.
• 上達 - means "improve" or "progress".
• する - is the verb "suru", which means "to do".

徐々に上達する。

Jojo ni jōtatsu suru

Progress gradually.

Improve gradually.

• 徐々に - gradually
• 上達する - progress, improve

演習は上達のための必要なものです。

Enshuu wa joutatsu no tame no hitsuyou na mono desu

Exercises are necessary to improve.

• 演習 - exercises
• は - Topic particle
• 上達 - improvement, progress
• のための - for
• 必要 - necessary
• な - adjective particle
• もの - thing
• です - Verb to be/estar

私は毎日練習することで上達します。

Watashi wa mainichi renshuu suru koto de joutatsu shimasu

I improve by practicing every day.

• 私 - Japanese personal pronoun that means "I"
• は - Japanese particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case, "I"
• 毎日 - Japanese adverb meaning "every day"
• 練習する - Japanese verb meaning "to practice"
• こと - A palavra japonesa que significa "coisa" é "もの" (mono).
• で - Japanese particle that indicates the means or method used to perform the action, in this case, "practice"
• 上達します - Japanese verb meaning "improve" or "progress"