Translation and Meaning of: 受験 - jyuken

The Japanese word 受験[じゅけん] is a term that carries significant weight in the culture and daily life of Japan. If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in the country, understanding its meaning, origin, and practical use can be essential. In this article, we will explore everything from the literal translation to the cultural context in which this word is used, including tips for memorization and proven curiosities.

Meaning and translation of 受験

受験 [じゅけん] is a noun that means "admission exam" or "entrance test," especially in an academic context. The most common translation is "college entrance exam" or "selection process," depending on the country. In Japan, the term is directly related to competitive tests for entering schools, universities, or even public jobs.

It is worth noting that 受験 does not refer to just any type of exam, but specifically to those that determine access to an institution or position. For example, 大学受験[だいがくじゅけん] means "university entrance exam," while 高校受験[こうこうじゅけん] refers to the exam for high school.

Origin and composition of kanji

The word 受験 is composed of two kanji: 受 (ju), which means "to receive" or "to accept," and 験 (ken), which can be translated as "test" or "exam." Together, they convey the idea of "receiving a test," that is, submitting oneself to an evaluation with a specific purpose.

It is interesting to note that the kanji 験 also appears in other words related to exams, such as 試験[しけん] (test) and 体験[たいけん] (practical experience). This connection helps to understand why 受験 is so often associated with formal selection processes.

Cultural context and importance in Japan

In Japan, 受験 is more than just a word – it's a social phenomenon. The preparation period for entrance exams, known as 受験勉強[じゅけんべんきょう], is marked by great pressure and intense dedication. Many students attend cram schools (塾[じゅく]) or study late into the night to secure a spot at the best institutions.

This system reflects deeply rooted values in Japanese society, such as meritocracy and discipline. Competition is fierce, especially for elite universities like the University of Tokyo (東大[とうだい]). It is no exaggeration to say that 受験 can define professional trajectories and even social relations in Japan.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to reinforce 受験 is to associate it with real situations. For example, when seeing news about the センター試験[センターしけん] (centralized exam in Japan), remember that it is a type of 受験. Another tip is to practice with phrases like 受験に合格する[じゅけんにごうかくする] (to pass the entrance exam).

Avoid confusing 受験 with 試験[しけん], which is a more generic term for "test." While 試験 can refer to any school exam, 受験 always involves a selection process with direct consequences for the candidate's future.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 受試 (じゅし) - Process of taking a test
• 試験受ける (しけんうける) - Take an exam
• 試験を受ける (しけんをうける) - Take an exam
• 試験を受けること (しけんをうけること) - The act of taking an exam
• 試験を受けることができる (しけんをうけることができる) - Be able to take an exam
• 試験を受けることが可能 (しけんをうけることがかのう) - It is possible to take an exam.
• 試験を受けることができます (しけんをうけることができます) - To have the ability to take an exam

受験

Romaji: jyuken
Kana: じゅけん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: taking an exam

Meaning in English: taking an examination

Definition: Entrance exams for universities and vocational schools.

Example Sentences - (受験) jyuken

See below some example sentences:

受験は人生の大きな試練です。

Juken wa jinsei no ookina shiren desu

The entrance exam is a big challenge in life.

Taking an exam is a great test of life.

• 受験 - admission exam
• は - Topic particle
• 人生 - life
• の - Possession particle
• 大きな - large
• 試練 - challenge, trial
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present