Translation and Meaning of: 歯科 - shika

The Japanese word 歯科[しか] may seem simple, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese life. If you have ever wondered how Japanese people refer to issues related to teeth or dental offices, you are in the right place.

In addition to uncovering the literal translation of 歯科, let's dive into its cultural context, frequency of use, and even tips to memorize it more easily. Whether for study or curiosity, understanding this word can be useful both when traveling and learning Japanese. Shall we get started?

The meaning and use of 歯科 in everyday Japanese

歯科 is a word composed of the kanjis 歯 (tooth) and 科 (department, area of study). Together, they form the term that means "dentistry" or "dental clinic". In Japan, it is common to see signs with 歯科医院 (shika iin) indicating dental offices, just as we use "dental clinic" in Portuguese.

Unlike Portuguese, where "dentist" is the more colloquial term, in Japanese 歯科医 (shikai) is the formal term for the professional, while 歯医者 (haisha) is the more casual version. This distinction is important for those who want to sound natural when discussing oral health in Japan. In hospitals, the dentistry section is also called 歯科.

The origin and writing of 歯科

The composition of 歯科 follows the common logic of many medical terms in Japanese, which combine descriptive kanjis. The kanji 歯 appears in various words related to teeth, such as 歯ブラシ (toothbrush) and 歯痛 (toothache). Meanwhile, 科 is used in various fields of medicine, such as 内科 (internal medicine) and 外科 (surgery).

Interestingly, while 歯 has a kun'yomi reading (ha) and an on'yomi reading (shi), 科 only has an on'yomi reading (ka). This mix is common in Japanese compounds. To memorize, a tip is to associate 歯科 with "shi-ka", remembering that "shi" comes from 歯 (tooth) and "ka" from 科 (area), thus forming "area of teeth".

Dentistry in Japanese culture and society

In Japan, dentistry has an interesting social role. Unlike some Western countries where visiting the dentist is seen as optional, in Japan there is a strong prevention culture. Many companies include annual dental check-ups in their benefits, and schools often conduct oral examinations on children.

This importance is reflected in the vocabulary. In addition to 歯科, terms like 歯科検診 (dental exam) and 歯科衛生士 (dental hygienist) are common. For tourists, being able to identify 歯科 on signs can be useful in case of dental emergencies during the trip. The word also frequently appears in medical guides for foreigners in Japan.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 歯科医院 (shika iin) - Dental clinic
• 歯医者 (haisha) - dentist
• 歯科診療所 (shika shinryoujo) - Dental office
• 歯科クリニック (shika kurinikku) - Dental clinic
• 歯科治療院 (shika chiryouin) - Dental treatment institution
• 歯科医療施設 (shika iryou shisetsu) - Installation of dental assistance

歯科

Romaji: shika
Kana: しか
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: dentistry

Meaning in English: dentistry

Definition: Dentistry: Field of medicine that examines and treats teeth and oral health.

Example Sentences - (歯科) shika

See below some example sentences:

歯科医は歯の健康を守るために大切な存在です。

Shikai wa ha no kenkō o mamoru tame ni taisetsu na sonzai desu

Dentists are important to protect dental health.

Dentists are important to protect dental health.

• 歯科医 - dentist
• は - Topic particle
• 歯の健康 - dental health
• を - direct object particle
• 守る - protect
• ために - for
• 大切な - important
• 存在 - existence
• です - Verb "to be"