Translation and Meaning of: 全集 - zenshuu

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 全集 (ぜんしゅう). It frequently appears in books, magazines, and even in more formal conversations. But what exactly does it mean? How is it used in daily life? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts in which this word is used, along with tips for memorizing it efficiently.

Meaning and Translation of 全集

全集 (ぜんしゅう) is a Japanese word that means "complete collection" or "complete works." It is often used to refer to sets of books, articles, or other artistic productions gathered into a single edition. For example, a publisher may release the 全集 of a famous author, including all of their novels in a series of volumes.

In Portuguese, the closest translation would be "complete collection" or "integral work." It is worth noting that 全集 is not limited to just books. It can also apply to other types of content, such as complete discographies of musicians or even film compilations.

Origin and Composition of Kanji

The word 全集 is composed of two kanji: 全 (zen), which means "complete" or "all", and 集 (shuu), which means "collection" or "gathering". Together, they create the concept of something that has been completely gathered in one place. This combination is quite logical and helps to understand the meaning of the word intuitively.

The use of 全集 dates back to the period when literary works began to be compiled into complete editions in Japan. Since then, it has become a common term in the publishing and academic world, especially in publications that aim to preserve the entirety of an author's or artist's output.

Cultural Uses and Common Contexts

In Japan, 全集 is a term often associated with prestigious collections. Many families have encyclopedias or complete works of classic authors at home, either as a study object or as a decorative item. These collections are seen as symbols of knowledge and culture.

Moreover, 全集 is also used in academic contexts. Universities and libraries often acquire complete collections of important researchers for reference. If you have ever visited a Japanese bookstore, you have likely seen sections dedicated to the 全集 of contemporary and historical authors.

Tips for Memorizing 全集

An effective way to remember the meaning of 全集 is to associate the kanjis that compose it. Think of 全 (zen) as "totality" and 集 (shuu) as "grouping." Together, they form the idea of a "total grouping," which makes sense for "complete collection.".

Another tip is to observe the use of the word in book or article titles. Many Japanese publishers include 全集 in the name of complete works series, which can help solidify the term in memory with real examples.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 全巻 (zenkan) - All volumes of a series
• 全冊 (zensatsu) - All editions, volumes or books
• 全部 (zenbu) - The whole set, everything (more generic)
• 全て (subete) - All, the totality (more formal)

全集

Romaji: zenshuu
Kana: ぜんしゅう
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Complete Works

Meaning in English: complete works

Definition: Book that compiles works on a specific theme or by an author.

Example Sentences - (全集) zenshuu

See below some example sentences:

この本は「全集」というタイトルです。

Kono hon wa "zenshu" to iu taitoru desu

• この本 - This book
• は - is
• 「全集」 - "Complete collection"
• という - called from
• タイトル - title
• です - is