Translation and Meaning of: 捜索 - sousaku

The Japanese word 捜索 [そうさく] (sōsaku) is a term that arouses curiosity both for its kanji writing and for its practical use in everyday life. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding the meaning, origin, and context of this word can be very useful. In this article, we will explore everything about 捜索, from its composition to examples of use in real situations.

In addition to being a common word in formal and informal contexts, 捜索 also frequently appears in news, police dramas, and even animes. If you want to learn how to memorize it or discover interesting facts about its usage, keep reading. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, has gathered accurate information so you can master this vocabulary efficiently.

Meaning and usage of 捜索 [そうさく]

The term 捜索 [そうさく] means "search," "probe," or "investigation." It is often used in contexts where there is a need to find something or someone, whether in everyday situations or emergencies. For example, the Japanese police use this word in rescue operations or criminal investigations.

An interesting characteristic of 捜索 is that it carries a more formal and systematic tone than other similar words. While 探す (sagasu) can be used to search for lost objects in daily life, 捜索 implies a more methodical search, often involving organized efforts. This makes it common in news reports and official documents.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 捜索 is made up of two kanji: 捜 (sō) and 索 (saku). The first, 捜, means "to search" or "to investigate," while the second, 索, carries the meaning of "rope" or "to seek." Together, they convey the idea of an active and thorough search, as if someone is pulling a rope to find something hidden.

It is important to note that 捜索 is not an old or rare word. It is part of the modern vocabulary and is widely recognized in Japan. Its origin dates back to classical Chinese, but its use in contemporary Japanese is established, especially in legal and public safety contexts.

Tips to memorize 捜索

An effective way to memorize 捜索 is to associate the kanjis with mental images. For example, the radical 扌 (hand) present in 捜 can remind someone of rummaging through something with their hands, while 索, with its stroke resembling a rope, can be linked to the idea of pulling or searching for something hidden. This visualization technique helps to anchor the meaning.

Another tip is to practice with real sentences. Watching crime dramas or reading news in Japanese can expose you to authentic uses of the word. Writing down examples in a notebook or app like Anki also reinforces learning. The more contextualized the study, the more natural the use of 捜索 becomes in your vocabulary.