Translation and Meaning of: 戦災 - sensai

The Japanese word 戦災 [せんさい] carries a deep and historical meaning, often associated with tragic events. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday life in Japan. Furthermore, we will examine its cultural context and tips to memorize this term, in case you are studying Japanese. Whether for curiosity or academic necessity, understanding 戦災 is essential for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the Japanese language and culture.

The meaning and origin of 戦災

戦災 is composed of two kanji: 戦 (war) and 災 (disaster). Together, they form the word that can be translated as "war damage" or "devastation caused by conflicts." This term is often used to refer to the ravages left by wars, especially the effects of World War II in Japan.

The origin of the word is directly linked to the post-war period when the country faced physical and emotional reconstruction. It is not limited to material destruction but also encompasses social traumas and human losses. Therefore, 戦災 is a term loaded with historical and emotional significance.

Cultural usage and frequency in modern Japanese

In Japan, 戦災 is still a relevant word, especially in discussions about history and collective memory. It appears in documentaries, books, and speeches that address the consequences of war. Although it is not a common term, its use persists in educational and memorial contexts.

It is worth noting that 戦災 is more common in formal and academic records. You will hardly hear it in casual conversations unless the subject is specifically related to historical events. Even so, its cultural impact remains strong, especially among older generations who experienced the war.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 戦災 is to associate it with images of destroyed cities or stories of survivors. This emotional context helps to cement the meaning. Another tip is to study the kanjis separately: 戦 (war) and 災 (disaster) are useful in other words, such as 戦争 (war) and 災害 (natural disaster).

If you want to use 戦災 in a sentence, you can say something like "戦災で多くの都市が破壊された" (Many cities were destroyed by war damage). However, remember that this term is more suitable for historical or reflective contexts, not for everyday situations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 戦争被害 (Sensō higai) - Damage caused by the war
• 戦争災害 (Sensō saigai) - Disasters caused by war
• 戦争の被害 (Sensō no higai) - Damage related to war
• 戦争の災害 (Sensō no saigai) - War-related disasters
• 戦争による被害 (Sensō ni yoru higai) - Consequences of the war
• 戦争による災害 (Sensō ni yoru saigai) - Disasters resulting from war

戦災

Romaji: sensai
Kana: せんさい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: war damage

Meaning in English: war damage

Definition: Damages and disasters caused by war.

Example Sentences - (戦災) sensai

See below some example sentences:

戦災によって多くの人々が苦しんだ。

Sensai ni yotte ooku no hitobito ga kurushinda

Many people have suffered due to the damages of war.

Many people suffered due to the war.

• 戦災 - War and disaster
• によって - Through, by means of
• 多くの - Many
• 人々 - people
• が - Subject particle
• 苦しんだ - Suffered