Translation and Meaning of: 構造 - kouzou

The Japanese word 構造 [こうぞう] is a fascinating term that appears in various contexts, from engineering to philosophical discussions. If you are studying Japanese or are just curious about the language, understanding its meaning, origin, and use can enrich your knowledge. In this article, we will explore everything about this word, including its writing in kanji, practical examples, and even how to memorize it efficiently. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for those seeking to truly learn Japanese.

Meaning and Translation of 構造

Structure [こうぞう] can be translated into English as "structure," "construction," or "organization." It is used to describe how something is assembled or organized, whether it be a building, a system, or even a theory. For example, in engineering, 構造 refers to the physical structure of a bridge or building. In sociology, it may describe the organization of a society.

It is worth noting that this word is not limited to physical objects. It also appears in abstract contexts, such as in the expression 社会構造 (shakai kōzō), which means "social structure." This versatility makes 構造 a very useful term for those who wish to communicate in Japanese with more precision.

Origin and Composition of Kanjis

The word 構造 is formed by two kanji: 構 (kou), which means "to build" or "to prepare," and 造 (zou), which carries the sense of "to create" or "to manufacture." Together, they reinforce the idea of something that has been carefully assembled or structured. This combination is not random – it effectively reflects the meaning of the word as a whole.

It's interesting to note that the kanji 造 also appears in other words related to construction, such as 製造 (seizou – "manufacturing") and 改造 (kaizou – "renovation"). This pattern helps to understand how kanjis connect to form more complex terms, a notable characteristic of Japanese.

How to Use 構造 in Daily Life

In everyday life, 構造 (kōzō) is a common word in technical discussions, but it also appears in more informal conversations. For example, someone might say この建物の構造は複雑だ (kono tatemono no kōzō wa fukuzatsu da) to assert that "the structure of this building is complex." Similarly, in a debate about politics, one might use 経済構造 (keizai kōzō) to talk about a country's "economic structure."

One tip for memorizing this word is to associate it with concrete situations. Think about how things are built – from furniture to transportation systems. This visual approach helps to firmly establish the meaning of 構造 in a more natural way. Furthermore, when studying Japanese, it's worth noting example sentences to see how the word fits into different contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 構成 (Kousei) - Composition, formation of a whole from parts.
• 構築 (Kouchiku) - Construction, building, creation of something new and more complex.
• 構造物 (Kouzoubutsu) - Physical structures, buildings, specific constructions.
• 構造体 (Kouzoutai) - Structural body, a set of structural components that form a structure.
• 構造物件 (Kouzoubukken) - Structural objects, physical properties of a building.
• 構造体系 (Kouzoutaikei) - Structural system, organization of the elements that make up a structure.
• 構造形式 (Kouzoukeishiki) - Structural form, specific configuration of a structure.
• 構造体制 (Kouzoutaisei) - Structural regime, control system, and functioning of a structure.
• 構造体系統 (Kouzoutaikeitou) - Hierarchical structural system, comprehensive organization of structural components.
• 構造設計 (Kouzousekkei) - Structural project, planning of the form and function of a structure.
• 構造解析 (Kouzousekkei) - Structural analysis, study of forces and behaviors in structures.
• 構造力学 (Kouzourikigaku) - Structural mechanics, a branch of physics that studies forces in structures.
• 構造物設計 (Kouzoubutsu sekkei) - Structural design, specific design of buildings.
• 構造物解析 (Kouzoubutsu kaiseki) - Analysis of structures, investigation of the performance of buildings.
• 構造物力学 (Kouzoubutsu rikigaku) - Structural mechanics, study of physical interactions in constructions.

構造

Romaji: kouzou
Kana: こうぞう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: structure; construction

Meaning in English: structure;construction

Definition: The elements and relationships that constitute things.

Example Sentences - (構造) kouzou

See below some example sentences:

この建物の構造は非常に堅牢です。

Kono tatemono no kōzō wa hijō ni kenrō desu

The structure of this building is very robust.

The structure of this building is very robust.

• この - demonstrative pronoun meaning "this" or "this one";
• 建物 - noun meaning "building";
• の - particle indicating possession or belonging;
• 構造 - noun meaning "structure";
• は - particle indicating the topic of the sentence;
• 非常に - adverb meaning "very" or "extremely";
• 堅牢 - adjective meaning "robust" or "resistant";
• です - verb "to be" in the polite and formal form.

人体は複雑な構造を持っています。

Jintai wa fukuzatsu na kozo o motte imasu

The human body has a complicated structure.

• 人体 (jintai) - Human body
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 複雑 (fukuzatsu) - complex
• な (na) - adjectival particle
• 構造 (kouzou) - structure
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 持っています (motteimasu) - Have, possess