Translation and Meaning of: 学歴 - gakureki

The Japanese word 学歴 [がくれき] is a term that piques curiosity both for its meaning and its relevance in Japanese society. If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in Japan's culture, understanding what this word represents can be essential. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, everyday use, and how it is perceived in the Japanese cultural context. Additionally, we will provide practical tips for memorizing it and examples of how it appears in real conversations.

Meaning and Translation of 学歴

Academic background [がくれき] is composed of two kanjis: 学 (gaku), which means "study" or "learning," and 歴 (reki), which can be translated as "historical" or "trajectory." Together, they form the word that refers to a person's academic history, including attended schools, obtained diplomas, and educational qualifications. In English, the closest translation would be "academic background" or "educational curriculum."

In Japan, 学歴 carries significant weight in professional and social life. Companies and recruiters often evaluate candidates based on their educational credentials, making this word frequently used in contexts such as job interviews and selection processes. Although this concept exists in other countries, in Japan it is taken very seriously, even influencing social perceptions.

Origin and Cultural Use

The origin of 学歴 is linked to the Japanese educational system, which values academic excellence since the Meiji period (1868-1912). At that time, the government implemented reforms to modernize the country, and education became a central pillar for progress. Since then, the school history has been seen as an indicator of competence and discipline, something that persists to this day.

Culturally, 学歴 can be both a source of pride and a stigma. Graduating from a prestigious university, such as the University of Tokyo, can open doors, while lacking a renowned diploma can limit opportunities. This aspect is frequently discussed in the Japanese media, in dramas and articles that address the pressures of the educational system and its social consequences.

How to Memorize and Use 学歴

An effective way to memorize 学歴 is to associate its kanjis with familiar images or concepts. For example, 学 (gaku) appears in words like 学生 (gakusei - student), while 歴 (reki) is used in 歴史 (rekishi - history). Thinking of "academic history" can help solidify the meaning. Another tip is to practice with sentences like 彼の学歴はすごい (Kare no gakureki wa sugoi - His academic history is impressive).

It is worth mentioning that 学歴 refers not only to diplomas but also to the overall educational journey. Therefore, when using this word, it is important to consider the context. In informal conversations, it can be replaced with simpler terms, such as 学校の話 (gakkou no hanashi - talk about school), but in formal settings, 学歴 is the more appropriate and respectful choice.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 学位 (gakui) - Academic degree, a title granted upon completion of a course of study.
• 学識 (gakushiki) - Academic knowledge, wisdom acquired through study.
• 学問 (gakumon) - Study or erudition refers to the act of learning or academic practice.
• 学習歴 (gakushū-reki) - Study history, record of experiences and academic learnings.
• 学業 (gaku gyō) - Academic activities or subjects of study in an educational institution.
• 学究 (gakkyū) - Pursuit of learning refers to academic investigation or deep research in a field of study.
• 学識水準 (gakushiki suijun) - Level of academic knowledge, reference to proficiency or competence in a field of knowledge.
• 学歴履歴 (gakureki rireki) - Educational history, formal list of institutions and degrees obtained by an individual.

学歴

Romaji: gakureki
Kana: がくれき
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Academic background

Meaning in English: academic background

Definition: Your academic background, the school where you graduated and your specialization.

Example Sentences - (学歴) gakureki

See below some example sentences:

学歴は人生を決めるわけではない。

Gakureki wa jinsei o kimeru wake de wa nai

Academics do not determine life.

Educational formation does not determine life.

• 学歴 - means "school report" or "academic formation".
• は - topic particle that indicates that the subject of the sentence is "学歴".
• 人生 - means "human life."
• を - object particle that indicates that "人生" is the direct object of the sentence.
• 決める - verb that means "to decide" or "to determine".
• わけ - noun that means "reason" or "motive".
• ではない - negative expression that means "it isn't."