Translation and Meaning of: 清濁 - seidaku

The Japanese word 清濁 (せいだく, seidaku) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances in both its meaning and cultural use. In this article, we will explore what this expression represents, how it originated, and in what contexts it appears in everyday Japanese life. Whether you are learning the language or just curious about less common terms, understanding 清濁 can enrich your knowledge of the Japanese language and culture.

Meaning and origin of 清濁

Seiryaku is composed of two kanji: 清 (せい, sei), which means "pure" or "clean," and 濁 (だく, daku), which represents the opposite — "turbid" or "impure." Together, they form a concept that symbolizes the duality between purity and impurity, clarity and obscurity. This idea appears in various contexts, from philosophical discussions to descriptions of daily life.

The term has roots in traditional Japanese and Chinese thought, where the opposition between light and dark, good and evil, is often represented by pairs of concepts. In modern language, 清濁 can be used both literally (as in descriptions of clean and dirty water) and metaphorically (to discuss morality or a person's character).

Cultural usage and frequency

In Japan, 清濁 is not an extremely common word in everyday life, but it appears in literary texts, speeches, and even in discussions about ethics. It is more frequent in contexts that require reflection on contrasts, such as in articles or debates about society. For example, it can be used to describe the complexity of a situation where there are both positive and negative aspects involved.

It is worth noting that, although the term is not used as frequently in informal conversations, it is still recognized by native speakers. Japanese students may encounter it in advanced reading materials or in fixed expressions, which reinforces its relevance for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of the language.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember the meaning of 清濁 is to associate the kanjis that compose it with contrasting images. For example, 清 (clean) can be linked to crystal clear water, while 濁 (murky) evokes a muddy river. This visual association helps to reinforce the opposite meanings between the characters.

Interestingly, the term also appears in expressions like 清濁併せ呑む (せいだくあわせのむ, seidaku awasenomu), which means "to accept both the good and the bad" — a metaphor for tolerance and flexibility in the face of life's adversities. This kind of usage demonstrates how the word is connected to Japanese cultural values, such as resilience and balance.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 澄みとろ (sumitro) - Clean and pure water, commonly used to describe a state of purity in water.
• きよにごり (kiyogori) - Clear and clean water, emphasizing the absence of visible impurities.
• せいだく (seidaku) - Purity, focusing on an ideal state, clean and free from pollution.

清濁

Romaji: seidaku
Kana: せいだく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: good and evil; purity and impurity

Meaning in English: good and evil;purity and impurity

Definition: Something cloudy and something clear.

Example Sentences - (清濁) seidaku

See below some example sentences:

清濁を分ける

Seidaku wo wakeru

Separate the pure from the unclean.

Divide the turbidity

• 清 - "dry; clear; clean"
• 濁 - "turbidity; impurity; dirt"
• を - object particle
• 分ける - "to divide; to separate; to share"