Translation and Meaning of: 存続 - sonzoku

The Japanese word 存続[そんぞく] carries a deep and practical meaning, essential for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will see tips for memorizing it and contexts in which it appears, whether in conversations or in written materials. If you seek to understand 存続 clearly and directly, this is the right place.

Meaning and use of 存続

存続 [そんぞく] means "survival," "continuation," or "permanence." It is used to describe the persistence of something over time, whether it be a tradition, a business, or even a species. In Japan, where cultural preservation is valued, this word often appears in discussions about history and sustainability.

A common example is its use in business contexts, such as "企業の存続" (the survival of a company). It can also be applied to ecosystems, as in "自然環境の存続" (the preservation of the environment). Its tone is neutral but carries a weight of importance, especially in debates about the future and legacy.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 存続 is made up of two kanjis: 存 (to exist, to maintain) and 続 (to continue). Together, they reinforce the idea of something that persists over time. The first kanji, 存, also appears in words like 存在 (existence), while 続 is used in 続ける (to continue). This combination is not random—it reflects the importance of continuity in the Japanese mindset.

It is worth noting that 存続 is not an ancient word, but its kanji structure refers to classic concepts. Unlike modern terms with katakana, it has roots in classical Chinese, which makes it more formal. This explains why it appears more in written texts than in casual conversations.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 存続 is to associate it with long-term situations. Think of sentences like "この伝統の存続は重要だ" (The continuation of this tradition is important). Repeating real examples helps internalize not only the meaning but also the appropriate context.

Another tip is to observe its use in news or official documents, where the word appears frequently. Sites like NHK News or articles on sustainability often feature it. When you come across 存続, write down the complete sentence—this makes it easier to understand the contexts in which it fits best.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 継続 (Keizoku) - Continuation, the act of keeping something ongoing.
• 持続 (Jizoku) - Persistence, the ability to last over time.
• 連続 (Renzoku) - Sequence, something that occurs in succession or without interruption.
• 継承 (Keishou) - Inheritance, the act of receiving and continuing something that has been passed on.
• 残存 (Zanzon) - Survival, the state of remaining after something has disappeared or been removed.

存続

Romaji: sonzoku
Kana: そんぞく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: duration; continuation

Meaning in English: duration;continuance

Definition: May things continue, may they continue.

Example Sentences - (存続) sonzoku

See below some example sentences:

存続することが重要です。

Sonzoku suru koto ga juuyou desu

It is important to continue existing.

It is important to survive.

• 存続する - It means "continue to exist" or "remain".
• こと - It is a particle that indicates that the previous word is a noun, in this case, "continue existing".
• が - it is a particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, in this case, "continuing to exist" is the subject.
• 重要 - means "important".
• です - is a particle that indicates the end of the sentence and that it is in the present tense.