Translation and Meaning of: 流域 - ryuuiki

The Japanese word 「流域」 (ryuuiki) is composed of two kanji: 「流」 (ryuu) which means "flow" or "current," and 「域」 (iki) which translates as "area" or "region." Together, these two readings create the meaning of "watershed" or "drainage area," referring to a natural region where waters flow to the same outlet or river. The etymology of the kanji offers a clue about the essence of the word, which is closely tied to waterways and the surrounding terrain, forming an essential part of geography and the environment.

In the physical-geographical context, a 「流域」 is an area defined by the confluence of waters at a specific point, usually a main river. This concept is fundamental to hydrology and the study of the water cycle, as each watershed collects precipitation to be gathered into bodies of water. The term 「流域」 is crucial not only in geography but also in disciplines such as ecology and environmental planning, because understanding how water moves through these regions aids in ecosystem preservation and sustainable management of water resources.

Historically, watersheds have played a central role in the development of civilizations. Many important cities and human settlements developed along watersheds due to the abundance of water resources for drinking, irrigation, and transportation. This makes 「流域」 a term that transcends the mere physical aspect, carrying with it cultural and historical meanings. Furthermore, with the growing impact of climate change, the study of 「流域」 has become more relevant to mitigate risks associated with flooding and droughts.

Variations and Usage of 「流域」

• "Watershed area" (流域面積) referring to the area or extent of a watershed.
• "Watershed management" (流域管理 - ryuuiki kanri): indicating the management and administration of the watershed, involving the conservation and sustainable use of resources.

The term remains relevant today, especially in contexts of sustainability and environmental conservation. The correct knowledge and management of watersheds are essential for the protection of our natural resources and for the harmonious development of urban and rural areas.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 流域 (Ryūiki) - River drainage area.
• 河川流域 (Kasen Ryūiki) - Drainage area of a river; focus on specific rivers.
• 河川流域地域 (Kasen Ryūiki Chiiki) - River drainage basin area.
• 河川流域区域 (Kasen Ryūiki Kuiki) - Zone or area defined by the drainage of a river.
• 流水域 (Ryūsuiiki) - Area of flowing waters; highlights the movement of water.
• 流水区域 (Ryūsui Kuiki) - Area or region with flowing water.
• 水系 (Suikei) - Water system or interconnected river system.
• 水系地域 (Suikei Chiiki) - Water system region.
• 水系区域 (Suikei Kuiki) - Delimited area or zone of the water system.
• 流域地域 (Ryūiki Chiiki) - Drainage area region.
• 流域区域 (Ryūiki Kuiki) - Zone or area demarcated from the drainage area.
• 河川流域地 (Kasen Ryūiki Chi) - Land area of a river's drainage.
• 河川流域区 (Kasen Ryūiki Ku) - Division or section of a river's drainage.
• 流水域地 (Ryūsuiiki Chi) - Land area of the flowing water.
• 流水区域地 (Ryūsui Kuiki Chi) - Land area of the flowing water zone.
• 水系地 (Suikei Chi) - Land area of the water system.
• 水系区 (Suikei Ku) - Division or section of the water system.
• 流域地 (Ryūiki Chi) - Land area of the drainage area.
• 流域区 (Ryūiki Ku) - Division or section of the drainage area.

流域

Romaji: ryuuiki
Kana: りゅういき
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: (hydrographic basin

Meaning in English: (river) basin

Definition: An area where a single river or lake collects and flows water.

Example Sentences - (流域) ryuuiki

See below some example sentences:

この川の流域には多くの野生動物が生息しています。

Kono kawa no ryūiki ni wa ōku no yasei dōbutsu ga seisoku shite imasu

Many wild animals inhabit this river basin.

• この川の流域には - indicates the location where something is located, in this case, the watershed of this river
• 多くの - significa "muitos" em japonês
• 野生動物 - Wild animals
• が - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 生息しています - verb that means "to inhabit" or "to live in a certain place"