Translation and Meaning of: 個別 - kobetsu

If you are studying Japanese or have curiosity about the language, you may have come across the word 個別[こべつ]. It appears in various contexts, from everyday situations to more formal environments. But what exactly does it mean? How is it used in daily life? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you want to understand how the Japanese use 個別 in real conversations, keep reading!

Meaning and translation of 個別

The word 個別[こべつ] can be translated as "individual," "separate," or "specific." It is used to describe something that is treated in a distinct manner, without generalizations. For example, in schools or companies, it is common to hear about "個別 atendimento," which means a personalized service tailored to the needs of each individual.

Unlike words like 個人[こじん] (which refers to an individual itself), 個別 has a more differentiated sense between elements. If someone says "let's analyze 個別に," it means that each case will be examined separately, without groupings. This nuance is important to avoid confusion with similar terms.

Origin and composition of kanji

The writing of 個別 is formed by two kanji: 個 (ko), which means "unit" or "individual," and 別 (betsu), which carries the sense of "separation" or "difference." Together, they reinforce the idea of something being treated in an isolated or particular way. This combination is not random – it reflects the meaning of the word well.

It is worth noting that 個 is a kanji frequently used in words related to individuality, such as 個性[こせい] (personality) and 個室[こしつ] (private room). On the other hand, 別 appears in terms like 区別[くべつ] (distinction) and 特別[とくべつ] (special). Understanding these components helps to memorize not only 個別 but also other expressions in Japanese vocabulary.

How and when to use 個別 in daily life

In Japan, 個別 is a term widely used in organizational contexts. Language schools, for example, often offer 個別 lessons for students who need focused attention. Similarly, companies may have 個別 plans for clients with specific demands. If you've seen ads for "個別指導" (individualized instruction), now you know what it means.

Outside of the professional environment, the word also appears in everyday situations. If someone asks "can we handle this 個別に?", they are suggesting addressing the matter independently, without mixing it with other topics. It's a versatile term, but it requires a bit of practice to be used naturally in conversations.

Tips for memorizing 個別

An effective way to fix 個別 is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of services that are offered in a personalized way, such as private lessons or consultations. Creating sentences like "この問題は個別に考えましょう" (Let's think about this problem individually) helps internalize the real use of the word.

Another strategy is to focus on the kanjis that compose it. Remember that 個 refers to something unique, while 別 indicates separation. This decomposition not only facilitates memorization but also the understanding of other words that share the same characters. Over time, 個別 will cease to be an unknown term and will become part of your active vocabulary.