Translation and Meaning of: 実現 - jitsugen

The Japanese word 実現 (じつげん, jitsugen) is a term that carries a deep and practical meaning in the Japanese language. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding the usage and origin of this expression can be quite useful. In this article, we will explore what 実現 means, how it is used in daily life, and some tips for memorizing it effectively.

Additionally, we will see how this word is connected to Japanese cultural values and in which contexts it appears most frequently. Whether to expand your vocabulary or to better understand the Japanese mindset, this guide will help you uncover the details of 実現.

Meaning and use of 実現

The term 実現 is composed of two kanjis: 実 (jitsu), which means "reality" or "truth," and 現 (gen), which can be translated as "to appear" or "to manifest." Together, they form the concept of "realization" or "materialization." This word is often used to describe the materialization of ideas, dreams, or plans.

In daily life, Japanese people use 実現 in contexts such as professional projects, personal goals, and even technological innovations. For example, a company may announce that "a new system has been 実現した" (jitsugen shita), indicating that the system has been realized. The term also appears in discussions about public policies when governments seek to "achieve" social changes.

Origin and components of kanjis

The etymology of 実現 traces back to classic Chinese, where the kanjis 実 and 現 were already used in similar contexts. 実 (jitsu) comes from the radical 宀 (roof), combined with 貫 (pierce), suggesting something solid and true. On the other hand, 現 (gen) includes the radical 王 (king) and 見 (see), conveying the idea of something that becomes visible or tangible.

This combination of kanjis reinforces the meaning of transforming something abstract into concrete. It is worth noting that 実現 is not an old or obsolete word – on the contrary, it is widely used in modern Japanese, both in formal writing and in everyday conversations.

Tips to memorize 実現

An effective way to reinforce 実現 is to associate it with situations where goals are achieved. For example, think of a goal you recently accomplished and say: "私は夢を実現した" (Watashi wa yume o jitsugen shita) – "I realized my dream." This practice helps to internalize the term in a contextualized way.

Another tip is to observe the kanji 実 in other words like 実際 (jissai, "reality") and 実行 (jikkou, "execution"), which share the notion of concreteness. On the other hand, 現 appears in terms like 現実 (genjitsu, "reality") and 表現 (hyougen, "expression"), reinforcing the idea of manifestation. These connections facilitate vocabulary memorization.

Cultural and philosophical use

In Japan, 実現 is linked to the value of perseverance and continuous effort. Japanese culture values those who translate ideas into actions, and this word precisely reflects that mindset. Companies and individuals often use 実現 to express achievements that required planning and dedication.

Furthermore, 実現 appears in contexts of innovation, such as announcements of new technologies or social solutions. It conveys not only the completion of a project but also the fulfillment of a promise or vision. Therefore, it is common to see it in motivational speeches and personal development materials in Japan.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

実現する (jitsugen suru) - To realize or make something real, especially an idea or plan.
達成する (tassei suru) - Achieve or reach a goal or target.
実行する (jikkou suru) - Execute or implement an action or plan.
実施する (jisshi suru) - Formally implement a plan, regulation, or project.
実践する (jissen suru) - Put into practice or apply in real life, a method or concept.