Translation and Meaning of: 捕鯨 - hogei

The Japanese word 「捕鯨」 (hogei) refers to the practice of whaling, an activity that has historically been of great economic and cultural importance in Japan and in some other parts of the world. This practice involves the capture and killing of whales for meat, oil, and other by-products. The word is composed of two kanji: 「捕」 which means "to capture" or "to apprehend" and 「鯨」 which means "whale." Thus, the etymology of 「捕鯨」 directly reflects the action of capturing these marine mammals.

The practice of 「捕鯨」 has a long history in Japan, dating back many centuries. Historically, whale hunting was a community activity, deeply rooted in Japan's coastal communities. Whales served as a vital source of food and materials in regions where land resources were scarce. In fact, nearly every part of a whale was utilized, providing meat, oil, and materials for clothing and utensils. During the Edo period, many organized hunting techniques emerged, laying the groundwork for the modern whaling industry.

Currently, the practice of 「捕鯨」 has generated a lot of international controversy. The debates surrounding whaling often involve environmental and conservation issues, due to the vulnerability of many whale populations. However, for some Japanese communities, whaling is still seen as part of their cultural heritage and a legitimate subsistence practice. In response to international pressures, Japan has adjusted its policies, focusing on scientific research arguments to justify part of the activity.

Contemporary Variations and Challenges

• "Coastal whaling" (沿岸捕鯨) refers to the coastal hunting that is still practiced in some areas, targeting smaller and less endangered species.
• "Commercial whaling" (商業捕鯨, shougyou hogei) was suspended in accordance with international prohibitions, although Japan withdrew from the International Whaling Commission in 2019 to resume this practice on a limited scale.
• Modern techniques and technologies are used to promote a balance between tradition and sustainability.

Although 「捕鯨」 remains a highly contentious issue with ethical and cultural conflicts, it highlights the complex intersection of tradition, economy, and conservation in modern times. The word 「捕鯨」 not only carries deep historical and cultural meanings but also continues to be a symbol of the global debate on the interaction between humanity and nature.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 捕鯨 ( Hogei) - Whale hunting activity, usually on a large scale.
• クジラ漁 ( Kujira-ryo) - Whale fishing, emphasizing aspects of fishing capture.
• クジラ猟 ( Kujira-ryou) - Whale hunting, with a focus more on traditional hunting methods.
• 鯨獲り ( Kujira-tori) - General term for whale capture, without implying specific methods.

捕鯨

Romaji: hogei
Kana: ほげい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: whale; whaling

Meaning in English: whaling;whale fishing

Definition: Whaling is the act of capturing and using whales.