Translation and Meaning of: 現実 - genjitsu

The Japanese word 現実[げんじつ] is a fundamental term for those studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. Its meaning goes beyond a simple translation, carrying philosophical and social nuances that reflect the Japanese perspective on life. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used in everyday life, and why it is so relevant in both the language and the Japanese mindset.

If you have ever wondered how the Japanese perceive reality or how this word appears in animes and media, you are in the right place. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and precise explanations, helping you understand not only the vocabulary but also the context behind it. We will uncover everything from the composition of kanjis to common expressions that use 現実.

Meaning and translation of 現実

"現実[げんじつ]" can be translated as "reality," but its meaning is broader. While in Portuguese "realidade" often refers only to what is factual, in Japanese this word carries a more concrete and immediate connotation. It describes the world as it is, without idealizations or fantasies.

The kanjis that form 現実 are 現 (gen), which means "present" or "to appear", and 実 (jitsu), which means "truth" or "substance". Together, they convey the idea of something that is manifested in a true form. This combination reflects well how the Japanese language builds deep meanings from simple characters.

Everyday and cultural use of 現実

In daily life, the Japanese use 現実 to refer to concrete situations, often in contrast with dreams or expectations. Phrases like 現実を受け入れる (accept reality) are common and reflect a pragmatic attitude towards life. This word frequently appears in discussions about work, relationships, and even in advice.

Culturally, 現実 is linked to the value that Japanese society places on recognizing facts as they are. While some cultures may prioritize optimism or positive thinking, in Japan, there is a strong sense of facing reality, even when it is tough. This is reflected in proverbs and even in narratives of animes and dramas.

Tips for memorizing and using 現実

An effective way to fixate on 現実 is to associate it with everyday situations where reality imposes itself. For example, think of moments when plans didn't work out or when expectations were broken. This emotional connection helps to embed not only the word but also its deeper meaning.

Another tip is to observe how 現実 appears in song lyrics or movie dialogues in Japanese. Artists often use this word to convey messages about overcoming or acceptance. By seeing the term in real contexts, it becomes easier to understand its natural use in the language.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 現実 (genjitsu) - Reality, what is real, the situation as it is.
• 現世 (genze) - Current world, this life, in contrast with the beyond.
• 実態 (jittai) - The real condition or situation, the substance of something.
• 実相 (jissou) - The true appearance, the true nature of things.
• 実在 (jitzai) - Real existence, the condition of something that truly exists.
• 現在 (genzai) - Present, the current time, present moment.
• 真実 (shinjitsu) - Truth, what is true, the reality of facts.
• 真相 (shinsou) - The true truth, the essence of what happened.
• 真理 (shinji) - Fundamental principle, universal and ultimate truth.

現実

Romaji: genjitsu
Kana: げんじつ
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: reality

Meaning in English: reality

Definition: A concept that refers to the existence of things or the current situation.

Example Sentences - (現実) genjitsu

See below some example sentences:

現実が歪む。

Genjitsu ga yugamu

The reality is distorted.

The reality is distorted.

• 現実 (genjitsu) - Reality
• が (ga) - Subject particle
• 歪む (yugamu) - Twist, bend

このアイデアを現実に当てはめることができますか？

Kono aidea wo genjitsu ni atehameru koto ga dekimasu ka?

Can we apply this idea in reality?

Can you apply this idea to reality?

• この - this
• アイデア - idea
• を - direct object particle
• 現実 - reality
• に - Location particle
• 当てはめる - apply, fit
• こと - noun maker
• が - subject particle
• できます - Be able to
• か - interrogative particle

残酷な現実を受け止める必要がある。

Zankoku na genjitsu wo uketomeru hitsuyou ga aru

We need to face cruel reality.

It is necessary to accept cruel reality.

• 残酷な - cruel
• 現実 - reality
• を - Partícula que indica o objeto de um verbo
• 受け止める - aceitar, absorver
• 必要 - necessário
• が - partícula que indica o sujeito de uma frase
• ある - existir, ser

空想は現実になる可能性がある。

Kuusou wa genjitsu ni naru kanousei ga aru

Fantasy can be a reality.

• 空想 (kuusou) - it means "fantasy" or "imagination"
• は (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 現実 (genjitsu) - means "reality"
• に (ni) - Grammatical marker that indicates the location or target of the action
• なる (naru) - verb meaning "to become"
• 可能性 (kanousei) - It means "possibility".
• が (ga) - Grammatical particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• ある (aru) - Verb that means "to exist"

観念は現実を創造する力を持っている。

Kannen wa genjitsu o souzou suru chikara o motte iru

The idea has the power to create reality.

• 観念 - concept, idea
• は - Topic particle
• 現実 - reality
• を - direct object particle
• 創造する - Create, produce
• 力 - power, strength
• を - direct object particle
• 持っている - Land, possess