Translation and Meaning of: 是正 - zesei

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 是正[ぜせい]. It appears in formal contexts, documents, and even discussions about improvements. But what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. In addition, we will see tips for memorizing it and its role in Japan's corporate culture and language.

Meaning and usage of 是正

是正 [ぜせい] is a term that means "correction" or "rectification," especially in the sense of adjusting something that is wrong or inadequate. It is often used in administrative, legal, and business contexts, such as in "是正措置" (corrective measures) or "是正要求" (request for correction). Unlike words like 修正 (shūsei), which imply minor adjustments, 是正 carries a more formal and often obligatory tone.

A common example is its use in compliance reports, where companies need to "是正する" (correct) identified failures in audits. This word doesn't usually appear in casual conversations, but it is essential in professional environments. Its kanji, 是 (correct) + 正 (just), reinforces the idea of alignment with an established standard.

Origin and components of kanji

The combination of the kanji 是 and 正 is not random. 是, on its own, can mean "this" or "correct," while 正 represents "just" or "exact." Together, they form a term that emphasizes the action of making something as expected. This construction is common in Japanese words that deal with norms and standards, reflecting the importance of precision in Japanese culture.

It's interesting to note that 是正 does not have a direct Chinese origin like many other kanji terms. It was developed in Japan to meet specific needs of technical and bureaucratic language. This explains why it is used more in formal contexts than in everyday situations.

Tips for memorizing and using 是正

An effective way to reinforce 是正 is to associate it with situations where corrections are needed, such as in work or study environments. Phrases like "この誤りを是正してください" (Please correct this error) can help internalize its use. Another tip is to remember that it often appears in official documents, so jotting it down along with terms like 改善 (improvement) or 対応 (response) creates a useful semantic group.

Interestingly, 是正 has no significant dialectal variations, but it is less used in regions with strongly informal dialects, like Osaka. Its serious tone makes it more present in Tokyo and in corporate contexts. Knowing this helps avoid inappropriate uses in casual conversations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 正当化 (seitōka) - Justification
• 正当性 (seitōsei) - Legitimacy
• 正当 (seitō) - Just; legitimate
• 正義化 (seigi ka) - Justification of justice
• 正義性 (seigisai) - Nature of justice
• 正義 (seigi) - Justice; morality

是正

Romaji: zesei
Kana: ぜせい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: correction; revision

Meaning in English: correction;revision

Definition: To correct and fix errors.

Example Sentences - (是正) zesei

See below some example sentences:

是正な行動を取りましょう。

Seisei na koudou wo torimashou

Let's take correct actions.

Let's take the right action.

• 是正 (shisei) - It means "correction" or "rectification"
• な (na) - Particle indicating adjective
• 行動 (koudou) - It means "action" or "behavior"
• を (wo) - particle that indicates direct object
• 取りましょう (torimashou) - Polite form of the verb "toru", which means "to take" or "to perform"