Translation and Meaning of: 妥当 - datou

The Japanese word 妥当[だとう] is a term that frequently appears in formal and everyday contexts, but its exact meaning is not always clear to Japanese learners. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used in the Japanese language, and what its cultural nuances are. If you have ever wondered about the correct translation of 妥当 or how to apply it in sentences, this guide will help.

Besides uncovering the meaning of 妥当, let's analyze its origin, practical usage examples, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. If you are looking to understand Japanese vocabulary better or want to improve your fluency, this content was made for you. Shall we begin?

The meaning and use of 妥当[だとう]

妥当 is an adjective (or noun in certain contexts) that means "adequate," "reasonable," or "justifiable." It is used to describe something that is within acceptable standards, whether it's a decision, an argument, or a behavior. For example, if someone presents a well-founded proposal, one might say that it is a 妥当な提案 (an adequate proposal).

Unlike words like 正しい (correct) or 適切 (appropriate), 妥当 carries a connotation of balance and general acceptance. It is not just about being right, but about being reasonable within a specific context. This nuance makes the term frequently used in professional and academic discussions.

The origin and writing of 妥当

The word 妥当 is composed of two kanji: 妥 (agree, yield) and 当 (hit, fit). Together, they form the idea of something that is acceptable by consensus or that conforms to an expected standard. The first kanji, 妥, appears in words like 妥協 (compromise), while 当 is common in terms like 当然 (obvious).

It is worth noting that 妥当 has no alternative readings or significant dialectal variations. Its standard pronunciation is だとう, and it is written the same way throughout Japan. Although it is not an extremely common word in everyday conversation, its use is essential in contexts that require linguistic precision.

Tips to memorize and use 妥当

An effective way to fixate on 妥当 is to associate it with situations where a decision or opinion is deemed reasonable. For example, think of a scenario where a boss approves a work plan because they consider its points well-founded. This is a clear application of the term. Repeating phrases like その意見は妥当だ (that opinion is reasonable) also aids in memorization.

Another tip is to observe the use of 妥当 in news articles and official documents, where it appears frequently. Related words, such as 妥当性 (validity) and 妥当化 (justification), can expand your vocabulary. With constant practice, the term will naturally become part of your repertoire.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 適切 (Tekisetsu) - Suitable, appropriate.
• 適当 (Tekitō) - Suitable, appropriate (may have a connotation of being more informal or flexible).
• 正当 (Seitō) - Just, legitimate.
• 妥当な (Datōna) - Reasonable, acceptable.
• 適合 (Tekigō) - Meet requirements, compliance.
• 適正 (Tekisei) - Correct, appropriate in a more technical or formal context.
• 適度 (Tekido) - Moderate, balanced.
• 適宜 (Tekigi) - As necessary, appropriate for the situation.
• 適合する (Tekigō suru) - To be suitable, to fit.
• 適切に (Tekisetsu ni) - In an appropriate manner.
• 適任 (Tekinin) - Qualified, suitable for a specific role.
• 適合性 (Tekigōsei) - Compliance, suitability in terms of compatibility.
• 適時 (Tekiji) - Opportune, at the right time.
• 適性 (Tekisei) - Skill, ability for a specific task.
• 適合した (Tekigō shita) - That met the requirements, suitable.
• 適切である (Tekisetsu de aru) - To be suitable, to be appropriate.
• 適当性 (Tekitōsei) - Adequacy, appropriate (more subjective, related to standards that may vary).
• 適当に (Tekitō ni) - Appropriately, with flexibility.
• 適合させる (Tekigō saseru) - Make something fit, adapt.
• 適切さ (Tekisetsu sa) - Quality of being suitable.
• 適合するもの (Tekigō suru mono) - Something that fits, is compatible.
• 適切とされる (Tekisetsu to sareru) - Considered appropriate.
• 適当である (Tekitō de aru) - To be appropriate in a more informal sense.
• 適切なもの (Tekisetsu na mono) - An appropriate thing.
• 適切であること (Tekisetsu de aru koto) - The fact of being appropriate.
• 適任者 (Tekin sha) - Qualified person, suitable for a position.
• 適合条件 (Tekigō jōken) - Conditions of adequacy, compliance requirements.
• 適合度 (Tekigōdo) - Degree of adequacy, compatibility.

妥当

Romaji: datou
Kana: だとう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: valid; appropriate; right; appropriate

Meaning in English: valid;proper;right;appropriate

Definition: appropriate and correct

Example Sentences - (妥当) datou

See below some example sentences:

この判断は妥当だと思います。

Kono handan wa datō da to omoimasu

I think this decision is fair.

I think this decision is reasonable.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 判断 - noun meaning "judgment" or "decision"
• は - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 妥当 - adjective meaning "appropriate" or "reasonable"
• だ - auxiliary verb that indicates the present tense and the affirmative form
• と - particle that indicates the direct quotation of an opinion or thought
• 思います - verb that means "to think" or "believe" and indicates the polite and polite form