Translation and Meaning of: 小児科 - shounika

The Japanese word 小児科 [しょうにか] may seem complex at first glance, but its meaning is quite specific and useful for those studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is used in everyday life, and some curiosities that can aid in memorization. If you have ever wondered what 小児科 means or how to apply it in conversations, this guide will clarify your questions in a straightforward and practical way.

The meaning and origin of 小児科

小児科 is composed of three kanji: 小 (small), 児 (child), and 科 (department or area of study). Together, they form the word that means "pediatrics," which is the medical specialty that takes care of children. The origin of the term is linked to the classical division of medicine into specific areas, a practice that also exists in the West, but with particularities in the Japanese linguistic structure.

It is worth noting that 小児科 is a common term in hospitals and clinics in Japan, being essential for those who need pediatric medical care. Unlike more colloquial terms, it is used in formal and professional contexts, which reinforces its importance in the vocabulary of those who wish to master Japanese in everyday or academic situations.

How to use 小児科 in daily life

In Japan, if you need to take a child to the doctor, you are likely to see signs with 小児科 indicating the pediatrics department. This word appears in hospitals, clinics, and even in informational materials about child health. A practical example would be asking: "小児科はどこですか？" (Where is the pediatrics?), a useful phrase for parents or guardians.

Additionally, 小児科 can appear in conversations about medical careers or specializations. For example, someone studying medicine might say: "将来は小児科の医者になりたい" (In the future, I want to become a pediatrician). This type of usage shows how the word is rooted in both the professional environment and in the daily lives of Japanese families.

Curiosities and tips for memorization

An effective way to remember 小児科 is to break down its kanjis. 小 (small) and 児 (child) already suggest a focus on young patients, while 科 indicates a field of specialization. Associating these elements with the image of a children's hospital can aid memorization. Another tip is to practice with flashcards or apps like Anki, inserting the word into contextualized sentences.

Interestingly, 小児科 has no significant dialectal variations in Japan, being widely understood in all regions. However, in informal contexts, some Japanese may use shorter terms like "儿科" in certain situations, although this is less common. For students, it's best to focus on the standard form, as it is universally accepted and recognized.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• こども科 (Kodomo-ka) - Department of pediatrics, focused on children.
• 子供科 (Kodomo-ka) - Area dedicated to child health, similar to pediatrics.
• ペディアトリックス (Pediatorikkusu) - Field of medicine that focuses on the treatment of children.

小児科

Romaji: shounika
Kana: しょうにか
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: pediatrics

Meaning in English: pediatrics

Definition: Specialized medical area in pediatric diseases and health management.

Example Sentences - (小児科) shounika

See below some example sentences:

小児科は子供の健康を守るために重要な科目です。

Shounika wa kodomo no kenkou wo mamoru tame ni juuyou na kamoku desu

Pediatrics is an important discipline to protect the health of children.

Pediatrics is an important matter to protect your child's health.

• 小児科 - pediatric medical specialty
• 子供 - child
• 健康 - health
• 守る - protect
• ために - for
• 重要 - important
• 科目 - discipline
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present