Translation and Meaning of: 回覧 - kairan

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 回覧 (かいらん). It may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting meanings and uses in everyday Japanese. In this article, we will explore what this word means, how it is written in kanji, its practical use, and even some tips for memorization. If you want to understand how the Japanese use 回覧 at work, in school, or in everyday situations, keep reading!

The meaning and writing of 回覧

The word 回覧 (かいらん) is composed of two kanji: 回 (which means "turn" or "rotate") and 覧 (which conveys the sense of "to look" or "to see"). Together, they form the term that can be translated as "circular" or "to distribute for reading." In Japan, this word is often used in contexts where a document needs to be shared among multiple people, such as in companies or schools.

A common example is the 回覧板 (かいらんばん), a rotating bulletin board used in local communities for residents to read and pass on information. This type of practice is still very present in Japanese neighborhoods, demonstrating how the culture of sharing is rooted in daily life.

How 回覧 is used in Japan today

In the corporate environment, 回覧 (かいらん) is an essential word. Important documents are often marked as 回覧用 (かいらんよう), indicating that they should be read by everyone involved in a project. This system helps keep communication organized, especially in companies that value collective decision-making.

Additionally, with digitalization, the term also appears in emails and online platforms. Even so, the tradition of the physical 回覧板 still persists in many smaller cities, where neighbors take turns reading and signing notices from the city hall or the residents' association.

Tips to memorize 回覧

An effective way to remember this word is to associate the kanji 回 with something that spins or circulates, like a document passing from hand to hand. On the other hand, 覧 can be recalled by its resemblance to the verb 見る (みる - "to see"), as both involve the idea of visualization.

Another tip is to practice with real examples. If you are studying Japanese, try creating sentences like 「この書類は回覧してください」 ("Please circulate this document"). Using the word in context helps to memorize it naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 回覧状 (Kairanjou) - Document that circulates among several people for reading.
• 回覧書 (Kairansho) - Written or document used for circulation.
• 回覧板 (Kairanban) - Panel or board used to circulate information in a specific place.
• 回覧用紙 (Kairanyoushi) - Specific paper intended for the circulation of information.

回覧

Romaji: kairan
Kana: かいらん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: circulation

Meaning in English: circulation

Definition: Send a document to several people and have each person read it in turn.

Example Sentences - (回覧) kairan

See below some example sentences:

回覧を配布しました。

Kairan wo haifu shimashita

We distributed the circulation document.

The circulation was distributed.

• 回覧 - Word that means "circulation of documents" or "distribution of information".
• を - particle that indicates the direct object of the action.
• 配布 - Verb that means "distribute" or "deliver".
• しました - past form of the verb "suru", which indicates that the action was completed.