Translation and Meaning of: 用品 - youhin

Etymology and Definition

The word 「用品」 (youhin) is composed of two kanji: 「用」 and 「品」. The kanji 「用」 (you) means "usage" or "to use," while 「品」 (hin) refers to "article," "product," or "item." Together, these two characters form a term that indicates "products used for a specific purpose" or "daily-use items." Generally, 「用品」 describes items that are essential or intended for specific functions, which can range from household utensils to specialized equipment.

Origin and Use

The origin of the term dates back to the need to catalog and define objects used in everyday life, especially during the period of industrialization, when the variety of products began to increase significantly. The word came to be used to categorize products according to their functions, which facilitated trade and distribution logistics. In contemporary Japan, it is very common to find this word being used in stores, supermarkets, and catalogs that organize their products into sections of 「家庭用品」 (katei youhin, household goods), 「事務用品」 (jimu youhin, office supplies), among others.

Variety and Applications

The terms related to 「用品」 are widely adopted in different contexts, ranging from basic everyday needs to accessories for specific sectors. It is possible to divide the 「用品」 into categories such as:

"生活用品" (seikatsu youhin) - everyday products.
「スポーツ用品」 (supootsu youhin) - sports equipment.
"台所用品" (daidokoro youhin) - kitchen utensils.

These divisions not only help the consumer quickly identify what they need, but also illustrate the flexibility and breadth that the term has in the Japanese language.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

道具 (dougu) - Tools or instruments typically used to perform a specific task.
器具 (kigu) - Equipment or more specialized utensils, often used in technical or scientific contexts.
用具 (yougu) - Tools or equipment usually used for specific activities like sports or arts.
装備 (soubi) - Equipment or armaments, usually referring to devices or protective gear.
器材 (kizai) - Material or equipment, frequently used in manufacturing or construction contexts.