Translation and Meaning of: 操縦 - soujyuu

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you have probably come across the word 操縦 (そうじゅう). It appears in technical contexts, manuals, and even in daily conversations, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used by Japanese speakers, and the details that make it an interesting term for learners. If you want to truly understand 操縦, keep reading.

Meaning and usage of 操縦

The word 操縦 (そうじゅう) means "control," "handling," or "operation," usually related to machines, vehicles, or complex systems. It is common to see it in aviation manuals, industrial equipment instructions, or even in video game descriptions. For example, piloting an airplane or steering a ship can be described with this term.

However, its use is not limited to mechanical contexts. Figuratively, 操縦 can also appear in discussions about management or manipulation of situations, although this is a less frequent usage. The word carries a nuance of technical skill, suggesting that the act of "controlling" requires knowledge and precision.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The term 操縦 is formed by two kanjis: 操 (そう), which means "to manipulate" or "to train," and 縦 (じゅう), which refers to "vertical" or "longitudinal." Together, they convey the idea of "controlling something along an axis" or "maneuvering skillfully." This combination well reflects the use of the word in contexts such as navigation and piloting.

It is worth noting that 操縦 is not an old or obsolete word. It maintains its place in modern technical vocabulary, especially in fields such as engineering and transportation. Its origin is not linked to specific myths or stories, but rather to the natural evolution of the Japanese language to describe precise control actions.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 操縦 is to associate it with concrete situations, such as operating a drone or a flight simulator. If you've ever engaged with racing or aviation games, this word has likely appeared in the settings or tutorials. Creating flashcards with practical examples also helps to reinforce learning.

Another tip is to pay attention to the kanji 操, which appears in other words like 操作 (そうさ, "operation") and 体操 (たいそう, "gymnastics"). Noticing these patterns makes it easier to recognize related terms. Avoid confusing 操縦 with 運転 (うんてん), which specifically refers to driving land vehicles.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 操舵 (sōda) - Steering maneuver; control of a vehicle, especially in navigation.
• 操控 (sōkō) - Control or manipulation of something, usually used in the context of equipment or systems.
• 操練 (sōren) - Training, practice, or skill exercise.
• 操行 (sōkō) - Conduct, behavior, or ethics of a person's actions.
• 操持 (sōji) - Maintain, sustain, or manipulate something.
• 操る (ayatsuru) - Manipulate or operate; to control something skillfully or subtly.
• 操業 (sōgyō) - Operation or functioning of a facility, especially in an industrial context.

操縦

Romaji: soujyuu
Kana: そうじゅう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: management; handling; control; manipulation

Meaning in English: management;handling;control;manipulation

Definition: To operate ships, aircraft, etc.

Example Sentences - (操縦) soujyuu

See below some example sentences:

キャプテンは船を操縦するリーダーです。

Kyaputen wa fune wo sōjū suru rīdā desu

The captain is the leader who conducts the ship.

Captain is a leader who controls the ship.

• キャプテン - captain
• は - Topic particle
• 船 - Ship
• を - Direct object particle
• 操縦する - Pilot, control
• リーダー - Leader
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present

私は飛行機を操縦することができます。

Watashi wa hikouki wo soujuu suru koto ga dekimasu

I can fly a plane.

I can control the plane.

• 私 - personal pronoun "I"
• は - topic particle, indicating that the subject of the sentence is "I"
• 飛行機 - noun "plane"
• を - direct object particle, indicating that "plane" is the direct object of the action
• 操縦する - verb "pilot"
• ことができます - expression that indicates the ability or possibility of doing something