Translation and Meaning of: 産婦人科 - sanfujinka

The Japanese word 産婦人科 (さんふじんか, "sanfujinka") may seem complex at first glance, but its meaning is quite specific and useful for those studying Japanese or interested in Japan's medical culture. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is used in everyday life, and some curiosities about its cultural context. If you have ever wondered what 産婦人科 means or how it is applied in sentences, keep reading to find out!

Meaning and Translation of 産婦人科

産婦人科 (sanfujinka) is a medical term that refers to the specialty of "gynecology and obstetrics." The word is composed of three kanji: 産 (san, "birth"), 婦 (fu, "woman"), and 人科 (jinka, "medical specialty"). Together, they describe the area of medicine that takes care of women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth.

In Japan, hospitals and clinics specialized in this area often have 産婦人科 on their signs or descriptions. Although it is a technical term, it is common to hear it in everyday contexts, especially when discussing medical consultations or hospital services.

Origin and Use of the Word

The origin of 産婦人科 dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan modernized its medical system and adopted Western terminologies adapted to the language. The combination of kanjis reflects the influence of European medicine, which separated gynecology and obstetrics as distinct but interconnected areas.

Today, the term is widely used, but some institutions prefer to use the abbreviations 婦人科 (fujinka, "gynecology") or 産科 (sanka, "obstetrics") separately. Despite this, 産婦人科 remains the most comprehensive and recognized form.

Curiosidades Culturais

In Japan, the choice of a good 産婦人科 (obstetrics and gynecology) is an important topic for expectant mothers, as the quality of prenatal care and delivery varies among hospitals. Many Japanese women carefully research clinics, seeking recommendations from other mothers or checking online reviews.

Additionally, the word often appears in medical dramas and animes that tackle hospital themes. Series like "Kounodori" (コウノドリ), which depicts the life of an obstetrician, have helped popularize the term among the general public, showcasing its use in real and emotional contexts.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 婦人科 (fujinka) - Department of Gynecology;
• 婦人病科 (fujinbyouka) - Department of gynecological diseases;
• 女性科 (joseika) - Department of Women's Health;
• 女科 (onnaka) - Less common term for gynecology, often used interchangeably with 婦人科;
• 産科 (sanka) - Department of obstetrics;
• 産婦科 (sanfujinka) - Department of obstetrics and gynecology; focus on pregnant women and childbirth;

産婦人科

Romaji: sanfujinka
Kana: さんふじんか
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Department of Maternity and Gynecology

Meaning in English: maternity and gynecology department

Definition: Department that provides medical care related to pregnancy, childbirth, and women's reproductive health.