Translation and Meaning of: 切開 - sekkai

The Japanese word 切開 (せっかい, sekkai) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries specific meanings and uses that are worth exploring. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding terms like this can enrich your vocabulary and avoid confusion. In this article, we will dive into the meaning, origin, and practical applications of this word, as well as highlight how it is perceived in Japan.

Let's start by uncovering what 切開 represents, its composition in kanji, and the contexts in which it most frequently appears. We will also look at tips for memorizing it and curiosities that make learning more interesting. If you are looking for reliable information about this word, you’ve come to the right place.

Meaning and composition of 切開

The word 切開 is composed of two kanji: 切 (to cut) and 開 (to open). Together, they convey the idea of "incision" or "surgical opening," commonly used in medical contexts. In daily life, this term may appear in discussions about procedures such as cesareans (帝王切開, ていおうせっかい) or surgeries that involve precise cuts.

Although the literal meaning is clear, it is important to note that 切開 is not limited to the field of medicine. In some rarer contexts, it can be used metaphorically to describe the opening of paths or solutions, although this usage is less frequent. The pronunciation せっかい (sekkai) follows the on'yomi reading, typical of kanji compounds.

Everyday and cultural use

In Japan, 切開 is a word that generally evokes formal or technical situations, especially in hospitals and clinics. You will hardly hear it in casual conversations, unless the subject is related to health or medical procedures. Its presence in news, medical dramas, or specialized magazines is more common than in everyday dialogue.

An interesting example is the use of the word in hospital-themed animes and mangas, such as "Black Jack" or "Monster." In these cases, 切開 appears in surgery scenes, reinforcing its connection to medicine. Outside of this context, it is rare to find the word in other forms of entertainment, which demonstrates its specificity.

Tips for memorizing and avoiding confusion

An effective way to remember 切開 is to associate it with vivid mental images. Think of a surgeon making an incision (切) to open (開) a part of the body. This simple visualization helps to recall both the meaning and the involved kanjis. Another strategy is to practice with flashcards or apps like Anki, inserting the word into medical sentences.

Be careful not to confuse 切開 with similar terms, such as 解剖 (かいぼう, kaibou), which means "dissection." Although both involve cuts, 解剖 has a more specific use related to anatomical or scientific studies. Paying attention to these details helps prevent mistakes when communicating or interpreting texts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 切割 (Setsukatsu) - Divide or cut into parts.
• 切り開く (Kiri-hiraku) - Open or explore, as in opening a path.
• 切り裂く (Kiri-saku) - To cut or tear with a quick motion, usually involving a violent act.
• 切り刻む (Kiri-kizamu) - Cut into small pieces, often in a careful and precise manner.
• 切り分ける (Kiri-wakeru) - Separate into parts, frequently referring to the division of a group or items.
• 切り離す (Kiri-hanasu) - Separate or disconnect, involving the idea of making something independent or detached.
• 切り取る (Kiri-toru) - Cut or remove a specific part of something, like cutting a slice.
• 切り崩す (Kiri-kuzu su) - Collapse or dismantle, usually referring to cutting something down to bring it down.
• 切り込む (Kiri-komu) - To dig or cut into something with force, usually implying a penetrating movement.
• 切り伸ばす (Kiri-nobasu) - Stretching or prolonging the cut, which may involve the idea of making something longer or more extensive.

切開

Romaji: sekkai
Kana: せっかい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: cleaning (earth); Opening; cutting

Meaning in English: clearing (land);opening up;cutting through

Definition: Cut a part of the body during surgery.

Example Sentences - (切開) sekkai

See below some example sentences:

切開手術は非常に重要です。

Sekkai shujutsu wa hijō ni jūyō desu

Cutting surgery is very important.

Copple surgery is very important.

• 切開手術 - incision surgery
• は - Topic particle
• 非常に - extremely
• 重要 - important
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form