Translation and Meaning of: 検討 - kentou

The Japanese word 検討 (けんとう, "kentou") is an essential term for anyone looking to understand the language and culture of Japan in formal and everyday contexts. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, practical use, and how it fits into Japanese communication. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding 検討 can be helpful for situations involving analysis, consideration, or deliberation.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you will find precise details about this word, including sentence examples and variations of use. Here, we go beyond the simple translation, showing how 検討 is perceived in Japan, its frequency in conversations, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently. Shall we begin?

The meaning and translation of 検討 is "consideration" or "examination."

検討 is often translated as "consideration," "analysis," or "detailed study." It appears in contexts where careful evaluation is needed before making a decision. For example, in corporate environments, it is common to hear phrases like "I will consider that proposal."

Unlike words like 考える (kangaeru, "to think"), 検討 carries a more formal and methodical tone. It is not used for casual thoughts, but rather for situations that require structured reflection. If you are learning Japanese for business, this is a word that will certainly appear frequently.

Origin and composition of the kanji 検討

The writing of 検討 is composed of two kanji: 検 (ken, "to examine") and 討 (tou, "to discuss"). Together, they reinforce the idea of a thorough analysis followed by deliberation. This combination is not random – it reflects the way the Japanese approach decision-making processes, valuing careful consideration.

It is worth noting that 検討 does not have a specific ancient or historical origin. It emerged as a practical term to describe methodical evaluations, common in both official documents and everyday conversations. Its use has become established in modern Japanese, especially in professional and academic contexts.

How and when to use 検討 in everyday Japanese

"検討" is a versatile word, but its use depends on the level of formality in the situation. In work meetings, it's common to hear "検討させてください" ("Let me analyze this"). However, among friends, it can sound very serious – in such cases, Japanese people prefer more informal alternatives like 考えておく (kangaete oku).

A common mistake among students is to use 検討 in very casual contexts. Remember: it carries a weight of responsibility. If you say you will "検討する", you are implicitly promising a response after careful analysis. Therefore, it's important to use it only when there is a real intention to evaluate something thoroughly.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 考慮 (Kōryo) - Consideration or taking something into account.
• 検討する (Kentō suru) - Analyze or discuss an idea or proposal in detail.
• 考える (Kangaeru) - Think or reflect on something; it can be more general than '検討'.
• 検査する (Kensa suru) - Inspect or thoroughly examine something.
• 調査する (Chōsa suru) - Investigate or research a specific topic.
• 研究する (Kenkyū suru) - Research or study systematically in depth.
• 見直す (Minnaosu) - Review or reassess something.

検討

Romaji: kentou
Kana: けんとう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: consideration; examination; investigation; study; scrutiny

Meaning in English: consideration;examination;investigation;study;scrutiny

Definition: To think or to research.

Example Sentences - (検討) kentou

See below some example sentences:

この案を検討してみましょう。

Kono an o kentō shite mimashou

Let's consider this proposal.

Let's consider this plan.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 案 - noun meaning "idea" or "project"
• を - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
• 検討 - verb meaning "to consider", "to examine" or "to analyze"
• して - conjugated form of the verb "suru" meaning "to do"
• みましょう - polite and encouraging form of the verb "miru" which means "to see" or "to try"