Translation and Meaning of: 画期 - kaki

The Japanese word 画期 (かっき, kakki) is a fascinating term that carries a deep and specific meaning in the Japanese language. If you're looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to use it in everyday life, this article will guide you through all of that. Here, we will explore everything from the translation and writing to practical examples and cultural curiosities, all to enrich your knowledge of the Japanese language. And if you want to delve even deeper, Suki Nihongo is the best Japanese dictionary for detailed inquiries.

Meaning and translation of 画期

画期 (かっき) is a word that can be translated as "milestone," "turning point," or "revolution." It is used to describe a moment or event that brings about a significant change, something that divides history into "before" and "after." For example, the invention of the internet was a 画期的 (かっきてき, kakki-teki) advancement, meaning a revolutionary advancement.

It is worth noting that 画期 does not refer to just any change, but rather to those that are truly transformative. In the world of business, technology, or even art, this term is used to highlight innovations that break paradigms and open new paths.

Origin and writing of the kanji 画期.

The word 画期 is composed of two kanjis: 画 (が, ga), which means "drawing" or "limit," and 期 (き, ki), which translates as "period" or "epoch." Together, they form the idea of a "limit between periods," reinforcing the concept of a dividing milestone. This combination is not random, as it reflects the notion that certain events reshape the course of history.

It's interesting to note that the kanji 画 also appears in words like 計画 (けいかく, keikaku – "plan") and 映画 (えいが, eiga – "film"), always bringing the idea of delimitation or representation. On the other hand, 期 is common in terms like 期間 (きかん, kikan – "time period") and 期待 (きたい, kitai – "expectation").

How and when to use 画期 in everyday Japanese

画期 is more commonly used in the adjectival form 画期的 (かっきてき, kakki-teki), which means "revolutionary" or "innovative." For example, a technological product that completely changes the market can be called 画期的な製品 (かっきてきなせいひん, kakki-teki na seihin). This usage is common in news, articles, and discussions about scientific or social advancements.

Although it is a formal word, it also appears in academic and business contexts to describe research or strategies that are groundbreaking. If you are learning Japanese, it is worth incorporating 画期的 into your vocabulary for more sophisticated discussions, but remember that it is not used in everyday casual conversations.

Curiosities and tips for memorizing 画期

An effective way to memorize 画期 is to associate it with historical or technological events that you consider revolutionary. Think of the arrival of the smartphone or the fall of the Berlin Wall – all are examples of 画期的な出来事 (かっきてきなできごと, kakki-teki na dekigoto). This concrete association helps to solidify the meaning.

Another tip is to observe that the kanji 画 (limit/drawing) can be visualized as a "dividing line," while 期 (period) refers to time. Together, they create the mental image of a milestone that "redraws" the timeline. This small etymological trick can be useful for those studying kanji.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

画期的 (kakiteki) - Innovative; representing a new era or a significant milestone.
革新的 (kakushinteki) - Revolutionary; that promotes radical changes and improvements.
革新性のある (kakushinsei no aru) - With the characteristic of innovation; that has the quality of being innovative or introducing new ideas.