Translation and Meaning of: 刊行 - kankou

The Japanese word 刊行 (かんこう, kankou) may not be very common in everyday vocabulary, but it has a quite specific and useful meaning for those studying Japanese or interested in the country's culture. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is used in different contexts, and some tips for memorizing it. If you have come across this term in books, magazines, or even in discussions about publications, understanding its meaning can be very valuable.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 刊行, we will also discuss how it is perceived in the Japanese language, including its frequency of use and practical examples. If you're looking for a reliable dictionary to learn more about words like this, Suki Nihongo is a great option. Shall we begin?

The meaning and use of 刊行 (かんこう)

刊行 is a term composed of two kanji: 刊, which is related to publications or printing, and 行, which can mean "action" or "execution." Together, they form a word that refers to the act of publishing or releasing something, such as books, magazines, or periodicals. It is a term often used in the publishing industry, whether to announce the release of a new work or to discuss publishing processes.

Although it is not an everyday word, 刊行 appears fairly often in formal or academic contexts. For example, you might find it in news about the release of an important book or in discussions about publishing policies. Its use is more technical, but understanding its meaning can enrich your vocabulary, especially if you have an interest in literature or communication.

The origin and history of the term

The etymology of 刊行 dates back to the kanji 刊, which was originally associated with the idea of carving or engraving, especially in wood or metal. This character was historically used in the context of printing when texts were literally carved into wooden blocks for reproduction. Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass publications in general, including books and magazines.

The kanji 行 has a broader history, linked to action and movement. When combined with 刊, it reinforces the idea of "putting something into circulation" or "making it public." This combination well reflects the publishing process, which involves not only creation but also the distribution of content. It is worth noting that 刊行 is not an old word, but its kanji construction carries this historical heritage.

How to memorize and use 刊行 in daily life

An effective way to remember 刊行 is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of a publisher announcing the release of a new book – this is the perfect context for this word. If you consume content in Japanese, such as news or magazines, pay attention to expressions like 刊行予定 (kankou yotei, "scheduled for publication") or 刊行物 (kankoubutsu, "published material").

Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences that include 刊行, such as "その雑誌は毎月刊行されています" (sono zasshi wa maitsuki kankou sarete imasu, "this magazine is published monthly"). Practicing with real examples helps internalize not just the meaning, but also how the word is used naturally. Over time, you'll realize that 刊行 is not as complicated as it seems.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

発行 (Hakkou) - Issuance or publication of a document, such as a decree or certificate.
出版 (Shuppan) - Publication of books, magazines, or other printed materials.
公刊 (Koukan) - Official or formal publication of a document, usually by a government or institutional entity.