Translation and Meaning of: 同格 - doukaku

The Japanese word 同格 [どうかく] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries important nuances both in the language and in Japanese culture. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about specific terms, understanding its meaning, usage, and context is essential. In this article, we will explore everything from its translation and origin to how this word is perceived in the everyday life of Japan.

In addition to uncovering what 同格 means literally, let's analyze its application in sentences, its frequency in conversations, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently. Whether to expand your vocabulary or satisfy a linguistic curiosity, this guide will help you master this term in a practical and straightforward way.

Meaning and translation of 同格

In Portuguese, 同格 can be translated as "same level," "equality," or "equivalence." It is composed of the kanji 同 (same) and 格 (level, status), forming a concept that indicates an equivalent position or condition among people, objects, or ideas. It is not just a superficial equality, but a correspondence in terms of value, hierarchy, or category.

In Japanese grammar, 同格 also has a specific role. It can be used to connect terms that share the same syntactic function, as in "教授同格の待遇" (treatment equivalent to that of a professor). This technical use is less common in everyday speech, but it appears in formal or academic texts, demonstrating how the word goes beyond its basic meaning.

Origin and components of 同格

The etymology of 同格 traces back to classical Chinese, where the kanjis 同 and 格 were already combined with a meaning similar to the current one. The kanji 同, which means "equal" or "the same," is often used in words like 同時 (dōji - simultaneous) or 同僚 (dōryō - colleague). On the other hand, 格 has a broader range of meanings, including "status," "standard," and even "case" in grammar.

It is worth noting that 格 is a kanji with multiple readings and applications. In 資格 (shikaku - qualification) or 価格 (kakaku - price), it takes on different meanings, but always related to the idea of classification or level. This versatility helps to understand why 同格 carries such a precise notion of equivalence in various contexts, from social relations to objective comparisons.

Everyday and Cultural Use of 同格

In Japan, the idea of 同格 is closely linked to cultural values such as harmony and respect for hierarchies. When used to describe human relationships, it often reflects a carefully maintained balance. For example, saying that two people are 同格 in a company does not only mean they hold the same position, but that they occupy a space of mutual recognition.

Although it is not a word frequently used in informal conversations, 同格 appears often in discussions about education, work, and even politics. Its tone is neutral, but it carries a sense of precision – it is not a term that applies to any resemblance, only to those that are formally or functionally equivalent. For Japanese students, noticing this nuance is an important step to use it correctly.

Tips for memorizing and using 同格

An effective way to fixate on 同格 is to associate it with concrete situations where equality is formalized. Think of internationally recognized diplomas as 同格 or positions with equivalent responsibilities in different companies. This connection with real contexts helps internalize not only the meaning but also the tone of the word.

Another strategy is to observe the kanji 格 in other compounds, such as 性格 (seikaku - personality) or 格差 (kakusa - disparity). Noticing how it modifies the meaning of these words will provide you with a solid foundation to understand why 同格 implies a specific, not casual, equivalence. Over time, you will become accustomed to its use in both active and passive vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 等位 (とうい) - Class equal; equality in level or position.
• 同等 (どうとう) - Of the same degree or level; equivalent.
• 同格の (どうかくの) - At the same level or category; expressing equivalence.

同格

Romaji: doukaku
Kana: どうかく
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: the same classification; equality; the position

Meaning in English: the same rank;equality;apposition

Definition: A relationship between things that have the same functions and functions as equals.