Translation and Meaning of: 徐行 - jyokou

The Japanese word 徐行 (じょこう, jokou) may not be very common in everyday vocabulary, but it has a very specific and useful meaning, especially for those learning Japanese or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore what this word means, how it is used in daily life, and its importance in contexts such as traffic and safety. Additionally, we will see how to memorize it efficiently and some curiosities about its use.

The meaning and use of 徐行 (じょこう)

徐行 (じょこう) is a word that means "to drive slowly" or "to move at reduced speed." It is often used on traffic signs and regulations to indicate that vehicles should slow down in certain areas, such as intersections, schools, or places with high pedestrian traffic. In Japan, adhering to this signage is essential to avoid fines and ensure safety on the roads.

In addition to the automotive context, 徐行 can also be applied in everyday situations, such as walking in crowded places or performing tasks that require care. The word carries an idea of caution and attention, reflecting an important aspect of Japanese culture: the valuation of safety and collective well-being.

The origin and writing of 徐行

The word 徐行 is composed of two kanjis: 徐 (じょ, jo), which means "slowly" or "gradually", and 行 (こう, kou), which can mean "to go" or "to move". Together, they form a term that literally indicates "slow movement". This construction is common in Japanese words that describe actions or states, illustrating how kanjis can be combined to create precise meanings.

It is worth noting that 徐行 is a word of Chinese origin, like many others in Japanese. It was incorporated into the Japanese vocabulary during periods of cultural and linguistic influence from China. Despite this, its use in Japan is well established, especially in formal and legal contexts, such as in the Japanese Traffic Code.

Tips for memorizing 徐行

An effective way to memorize 徐行 is to associate it with practical situations. For example, when you see a traffic sign in Japan or in study materials, try to remember that it indicates the need to reduce speed. Another tip is to create flashcards with the kanji and the meaning, reviewing them regularly to reinforce the vocabulary.

In addition, practicing the writing of kanjis can help internalize the word. Repeating the writing of 徐 and 行 while pronouncing "jokou" out loud reinforces the connection between the written form and the meaning. If you study Japanese, including 徐行 in example sentences is also a great strategy to consolidate the learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ゆっくり走る (Yukkuri hashiru) - Run slowly
• スローペースで進む (Surō pēsu de susumu) - Move at a slow pace
• ゆっくり進む (Yukkuri susumu) - Move slowly
• 徐々に進む (Jojo ni susumu) - Avançar gradualmente
• ゆっくりと進む (Yukkuri to susumu) - Avançar lentamente
• スローペースで走る (Surō pēsu de hashiru) - Run at a slow pace
• 徐行する (Jyokō suru) - Go at a slow pace
• ゆっくりと走る (Yukkuri to hashiru) - Run slowly
• スローペースで移動する (Surō pēsu de idō suru) - Move at a slow pace
• 徐々に移動する (Jojo ni idō suru) - Move gradually
• ゆっくり移動する (Yukkuri idō suru) - Move slowly
• スローペースで進んでいく (Surō pēsu de susunde iku) - Keep moving forward at a slow pace.
• 徐々に進んでいく (Jojo ni susunde iku) - Continue to move forward gradually
• ゆっくり進んでいく (Yukkuri susunde iku) - Continue moving forward slowly.

徐行

Romaji: jyokou
Kana: じょこう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: slowly in

Meaning in English: going slowly

Definition: Reduce speed and proceed slowly.