Translation and Meaning of: 望遠鏡 - bouenkyou

The Japanese word 「望遠鏡」 (bouenkyou) is composed of three kanji characters: 「望」 (bou), 「遠」 (en), and 「鏡」 (kyou). Each kanji contributes an essential piece to the overall meaning of the word. 「望」 means "desire" or "will", reflecting the idea of seeking or aspiring to see something distant. 「遠」 means "distance" or "far away", which complements the notion of extending vision to places or objects that lie beyond normal visual reach. Finally, 「鏡」 means "mirror", which in this context refers to the mirrored lens used in the optics of the tool. Together, they form the concept of "instrument for seeing far away."

Etymologically, the concept of 望遠鏡 (bouenkyou) dates back to the first inventions of telescopes in Europe in the 17th century. However, the word was adopted and adapted into the Japanese language as technology spread throughout the world. The term "望遠" (bouen) implies the ability to visually reach something that is far away, connecting to the basic function of a telescope. The part "鏡" (kyou) literally refers to the lenses and mirrors, which are fundamental parts for constructing this type of optical tool.

The main function of a 望遠鏡 (bouenkyou) is to enlarge the image of distant objects, using a combination of concave or convex lenses. This concept has been and still is fundamental in areas such as astronomy, where observing celestial bodies not visible to the naked eye significantly alters our understanding of the universe. Today, 望遠鏡 range from portable and simple models to complex professional equipment used in space observatories.

Applications and Varieties

• Refracting telescopes, which use lenses to collect light.
• Reflecting telescopes, which use mirrors for the same purpose.
• Compound telescopes, combining both methods to optimize viewing.

The evolution of望遠鏡 continues to influence not only the field of astronomy but also areas such as navigation, birdwatching, and other activities that benefit from the ability to observe minutely from a distance. In this way, the word itself encapsulates a rich history of innovation and discovery, being a vital part of the vocabulary related to science and exploration. With the continuous advancement of technology, the reach and precision of望遠鏡 are only expected to improve, further expanding our view of the cosmos and the world around us.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 双眼鏡 (Sougankyou) - Binóculo
• 望遠レンズ (Bouen Renzu) - Telephoto lens, used in cameras to capture distant images
• 望遠スコープ (Bouen Sukōpu) - Telescope, used to observe distant objects
• 望遠器 (Bouenki) - Optical device for viewing long distances, generic term
• 望遠望遠鏡 (Bouen Bouenkyou) - High-power telescope, emphasizing the magnification capability
• 望遠望遠器 (Bouen Bouenki) - Advanced optical equipment, focused on distant observations
• 望遠望遠スコープ (Bouen Bouensukōpu) - A specialized telescope, designed for long-range observations

望遠鏡

Romaji: bouenkyou
Kana: ぼうえんきょう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: telescope

Meaning in English: telescope

Definition: An optical instrument to see distant objects.