Translation and Meaning of: 効果 - kouka

The Japanese word 効果[こうか] is a very useful term in everyday life, especially for those learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. Its main meaning relates to "effect" or "result," but it carries important nuances depending on the context. In this article, we will explore its everyday use as well as details about its origin and how to memorize it effectively.

In addition to being a common word in conversations and texts, 効果 often appears in discussions about products, medicine, marketing, and even in animes. Understanding its meaning and application can help not only in communication but also in grasping cultural and social aspects of Japan. Let's dive into these details below.

Meaning and use of 効果 in everyday life

The term 効果 is used to describe an effect, result, or impact caused by something. For example, when talking about a medicine, one might say that it has a 効果 positivo (positive effect). Similarly, in advertising campaigns, it is common to hear phrases like "この広告は効果的です" (this advertisement is effective).

In the corporate environment, the word also appears in expressions like 効果測定 (result measurement) or 経済効果 (economic impact). Its versatility allows it to be applied in different areas, from science to people's daily lives. It is worth noting that, although it has a similar meaning to "result," it is not used for academic purposes such as "research results."

Origin and composition of the kanji 効果

The writing of 効果 is composed of two kanji: 効 (efficacy) and 果 (fruit, result). Together, they form the idea of "effective result." The first kanji, 効, appears in words like 効率 (efficiency) and 有効 (valid, effective). The second one, 果, is also found in terms like 結果 (result) and 果たす (to fulfill, to accomplish).

This combination is not random. In the Japanese language, many terms are constructed from the union of kanjis that reinforce their meaning. In the case of 効果, the combination of "efficiency" and "result" helps to understand why this word is so used in contexts that require an action with measurable consequences.

Tips for memorizing and using 効果 correctly

An effective way to fix this word is to associate it with practical situations. For example, when taking medicine, think about how it has an 効果 expected. Or, when seeing an advertisement, reflect on whether it had the 効果 desired. This type of association helps to internalize the term naturally.

Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "この方法は効果がありますか？" (Does this method have an effect?). Repeating it out loud and writing the kanji a few times also strengthens memorization. If you already know words like 結果 or 効率, it becomes even easier to make mental connections with 効果.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 効き目 (kikime) - Effect, result; generally used to indicate the efficacy of a medicine or treatment.
• 効能 (kounou) - Benefit, efficacy; refers to the beneficial effects of medications or treatments.
• 効果音 (koukaon) - Sound effect; a sound used to create an effect, commonly in media productions.
• 効力 (kouryoku) - Power, validity; it generally refers to the strength or efficacy of a law, rule, or remedy.
• 効用 (kouyou) - Utility, function; refers to the usefulness or practical application of something.

効果

Romaji: kouka
Kana: こうか
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: It is made; efficiency; efficiency; result

Meaning in English: effect;effectiveness;efficacy;result

Definition: A force or action to achieve a specific purpose or goal.

Example Sentences - (効果) kouka

See below some example sentences:

この方法は効果的です。

Kono hōhō wa kōkateki desu

This method is effective.

This method is effective.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 方法 - noun meaning "method" or "way"
• は - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 効果的 - adjective that means "effective" or "efficient"
• です - verb "to be" in the polite and polite form

この手法は非常に効果的です。

Kono shuhō wa hijō ni kōkateki desu

This technique is very effective.

This method is very effective.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 手法 - noun meaning "method" or "technique"
• は - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 非常に - adverb meaning "very" or "extremely"
• 効果的 - adjective that means "effective" or "efficient"
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form

この薬の効果は素晴らしいです。

Kono kusuri no kouka wa subarashii desu

The effect of this drug is wonderful.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 薬 - noun meaning "medicine"
• の - possessive particle indicating that the medicine is the object of the sentence
• 効果 - noun meaning "effect"
• は - topic particle indicating that the effect of the medicine is the subject of the sentence
• 素晴らしい - adjective that means "wonderful" or "excellent"
• です - auxiliary verb indicating that the sentence is in the present tense and is affirmative
• . - period indicating the end of the sentence