Translation and Meaning of: 抵抗 - teikou

The Japanese word 抵抗[ていこう] is a term that frequently appears in everyday conversations, news, and even in philosophical discussions. If you are learning Japanese, you may have come across it in texts or dialogues, but do you know all its meanings and nuances? In this article, we will explore what 抵抗 means, how it is used in daily life, and the contexts in which it stands out in Japanese culture.

In addition to uncovering the translation and practical uses of 抵抗, let's delve into its structure, including the composition of the kanjis that make it up. If you already use Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, you know how important it is to understand not only the meaning of words but also how they function within the language. Shall we get started?

The meaning and uses of 抵抗

抵抗 is a word that can be translated as "resistance" or "opposition." It is used in both physical contexts, such as in physics ("electrical resistance"), and in social and emotional situations, like when someone opposes an idea or decision. For example, in a discussion about public policies, it is common to hear phrases like "彼はその計画に抵抗した" (He opposed the plan).

Additionally, 抵抗 also appears in expressions like 抵抗感 (ていこうかん), which means "feeling of resistance" or "reluctance." This term is often used to describe a psychological aversion to something, such as when someone hesitates to accept a change. The versatility of the word makes it essential for those who want to master Japanese at different levels of formality.

The structure and origin of the kanjis 抵抗

To better understand 抵抗, it is useful to analyze the kanjis that compose it. The first character, 抵, means "to resist" or "to oppose," while the second, 抗, carries a similar sense of "to fight against" or "to defend." Together, they reinforce the idea of opposition or challenge. This combination is not random—it reflects the way many Japanese words are constructed from kanjis with complementary meanings.

It is worth noting that 抵抗 has no significant alternative or dialect readings, which makes it easier to learn. The pronunciation ていこう is standard throughout Japan, without relevant regional variations. This makes the word more accessible for students, as there is no need to worry about exceptions or unusual pronunciations.

Resistance in Japanese culture and media

In Japanese culture, the idea of resistance is often linked to values such as perseverance and resilience. In animes and mangas, for example, it is common to see characters facing adversities with 抵抗, whether in physical battles or internal conflicts. This representation reinforces how the concept is rooted not only in the language but also in the Japanese mindset.

Furthermore, 抵抗 often appears in news and social debates, especially when discussing movements opposing government policies or changes in society. If you follow Japanese newspapers, you will notice that the word comes up in contexts ranging from protests to discussions about technological innovation. Mastering its use can be a significant differentiator for those who wish to delve deeper into the language and culture of Japan.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

抵制 (teizei) - Resistance or boycott of something.
反抗 (hankou) - Rebellion; passive or active resistance against authority.
抗議 (kougi) - Protest; expression of dissatisfaction.
抗戦 (kousen) - Military resistance; armed struggle against an enemy.
抗争 (kousou) - Conflict or rivalry, often between groups or gangs.
抗う (arawaru) - Resist or oppose something.
反発 (hanpatsu) - Reaction or resilience against an attack or oppression.
反抗する (hankou suru) - Rebel; act against authority.
反対する (hantai suru) - To oppose; to disagree with something.
抗する (kousuru) - Oppose; resist.
抗うる (arawaru) - A more formal way to resist or oppose.
抗える (araeru) - To be able to resist or oppose.
抗い (arai) - Act or state of resistance.
抗い続ける (arai tsuzukeru) - Continue to resist.
抗い甲斐がある (arai gai ga aru) - It's worth resisting; it makes sense to oppose.
抗い勝つ (arai katsu) - Overcome through resistance.
抗い合う (arai au) - Resisting one another; mutual opposition.
抗い合わせる (arai awaseru) - Make oppositions meet; confront.
抗い合戦する (arai kassen suru) - Engage in a battle of endurance.
抗い合戦を繰り広げる (arai kassen o kurihirogeru) - Unleash a confrontation of resistance.
抗い合戦に勝つ (arai kassen ni katsu) - Win a battle of endurance.
抗い合戦に敗れる (arai kassen ni yabureru) - Being defeated in a battle of endurance.
抗い合戦で死ぬ (arai kassen de shinu) - Dying in a resistance battle.
抗い合戦で戦う (arai kassen de tatakau) - Fight in a endurance battle.
抗い合戦で戦死する (arai kassen de senshi suru) - Dying in combat during a resistance battle.
抗い合戦で戦う者 (arai kassen de tatakau mono) - Person who fights in a battle of resistance.