Translation and Meaning of: 既婚 - kikon

The Japanese word 既婚[きこん] is a term that awakens curiosity both for its structure and its meaning. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and some cultural particularities related to it. If you are learning Japanese or simply have an interest in the language, understanding terms like 既婚 can enrich your vocabulary and your understanding of Japanese society.

In addition to explaining the literal meaning, we will discuss how this word is perceived in Japan, its frequency of use, and the contexts in which it appears. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese talk about marital status or what the difference is between similar terms, this text will clarify those questions in a straightforward and practical manner.

Meaning and origin of 既婚

既婚[きこん] is composed of two kanji: 既 (ki), which means "already" or "previously," and 婚 (kon), which refers to "marriage." Together, they form the word that describes someone who is already married, that is, a person in the civil status of married. It is the direct opposite of 未婚[みこん], which means "single" or "not married."

The term is often used in forms, official documents, and more formal conversations to indicate a person's marital status. The origin of this construction dates back to classical Chinese, where the combination of characters to indicate completed situations was common. In Japan, this structure was adopted and integrated into everyday vocabulary, especially in bureaucratic contexts.

Cultural and social use of 既婚

In Japan, marital status is a piece of information frequently requested in formal situations, such as registrations, job interviews, and even medical consultations. The word 既婚 appears in these contexts as a neutral and straightforward way to refer to marriage, without carrying judgments or emotional connotations.

Culturally, being 既婚 or 未婚 can influence a person's social perception, especially in more traditional circles. Although this dynamic is changing with younger generations, there is still some social pressure surrounding marriage, making the term relevant in discussions about marital life and family expectations.

Tips for memorizing and using 既婚

An effective way to memorize 既婚 is to associate the kanji 既 with something that has already happened, like in 既に[すでに] ("already"), and 婚 with "marriage". This breakdown helps to logically fix the meaning. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, like "彼は既婚です" (Kare wa kikon desu – "He is married").

It is worth noting that 既婚 is not used in casual conversations with friends, unless the context requires it. In informal situations, Japanese people tend to use more colloquial expressions, such as "結婚している" (kekkon shite iru – "to be married"). Knowing when to use each of these forms is essential to sound natural in the language.