Translation and Meaning of: 執筆 - shippitsu

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 執筆 (しっぴつ - shippitsu). This expression is quite useful in academic and professional everyday life in Japan, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what 執筆 means, how it is used in different contexts, and some interesting facts about its origin and writing in kanji. If you want to understand this word deeply, keep reading!

The meaning and use of 執筆

The word 執筆 (しっぴつ) is made up of the kanjis 執 (to hold, to persist) and 筆 (brush, writing). Together, they convey the idea of "writing" or "drafting," especially in the context of formal texts, articles, books, or documents. Unlike more generic terms like 書く (kaku), which simply means "to write," 執筆 carries a more professional and intentional tone.

In Japan, this word is often used in academic and editorial environments. For example, when an author is working on a book, it can be said that he is 執筆中 (しっぴつちゅう - shippitsu-chuu), meaning "in the process of writing." It is also common to see job postings for 執筆者 (しっぴつしゃ - shippitsu-sha), which means "writer" or "editor."

The origin and writing of 執筆

The kanji 執 originates from the representation of a hand holding something firmly, while 筆 symbolizes a calligraphy brush. This combination reflects the importance given to writing in Japan, where calligraphy (書道 - shodou) is a traditional art. The word itself has roots in classical Chinese, but it was incorporated into Japanese with a more specific meaning.

It is interesting to note that, although 執筆 is a common word, it doesn't appear much in everyday conversations. Its use is more frequent in formal contexts, such as in universities, publishing houses, or companies that produce written content. This makes it a valuable expression for those who intend to work with writing in Japan.

Tips for memorizing and using 執筆

An effective way to remember the meaning of 執筆 is to associate it with the image of someone firmly holding a brush, as the kanji represents exactly this action. Another tip is to practice with sentences like 「彼は新しい小説を執筆している」 (Kare wa atarashii shousetsu o shippitsu shite iru - "He is writing a new novel").

It's worth remembering that, although 執筆 is a verb, it is often used in its nominal form. For example, saying 「執筆する」 (shippitsu suru) sounds more natural than just 「執筆」 in a sentence. If you are learning Japanese, try to include this word in your repertoire when talking about writing projects or academic works.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 著述 (Chojutsu) - Writing or drafting of works such as books and articles.
• 筆記 (Hituki) - Writing in general or the skill of writing.
• 作成 (Sakusei) - Creation or preparation of documents or texts.
• 作文 (Sakubun) - Written composition, often used in academic contexts.
• 作筆 (Sakuhitsu) - Act of writing or way of writing a work.
• 書き込み (Kakikomi) - Write or annotate something, such as in the margins of texts.
• 筆致 (Hisshi) - Style or tone of writing; the way something is written.
• 筆跡 (Hisseki) - Calligraphy or the specific way of writing of a person.
• 筆力 (Hitsuryoku) - Power or force of writing, referring to the expressive skill.
• 筆勢 (Hitsusei) - Vigor or intensity of writing, related to the style and energy of the text.
• 筆順 (Hitsujun) - Order of strokes in character writing, important for calligraphy.
• 筆法 (Hippou) - Writing techniques or methods, including calligraphy and styles.
• 筆記法 (Hikkihou) - Methods for efficiently taking notes.
• 筆記技術 (Hikkigijutsu) - Writing and note-taking techniques, addressing different modes of recording.
• 筆記能力 (Hikkinariryoku) - Ability to write well, reflecting skill in written communication.
• 筆記力 (Hikkiryoku) - Writing skill, function, and quality of the writing performed.
• 筆記速度 (Hikkisokudo) - Typing speed, important in contexts of quick notes.

執筆

Romaji: shippitsu
Kana: しっぴつ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: WRITING

Meaning in English: writing

Definition: write sentences.