Translation and Meaning of: 真空 - shinkuu

The Japanese word 真空 (しんくう, shinkū) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries deep meanings both in the scientific context and in the cultural imagination of Japan. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is used in everyday life, and even some curiosities that can help you memorize it. If you are learning Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding 真空 will open doors to a more technical and philosophical vocabulary.

In addition to the literal meaning, 真空 also appears in specific expressions and contexts that reveal a lot about how the Japanese perceive concepts like emptiness and space. Let’s delve into these details, showing how this word is more than just a direct translation of "vacuum." Here at Suki Nihongo, we always strive to provide clear and helpful explanations for those who want to truly master Japanese.

The meaning and origin of 真空

The word 真空 is composed of two kanjis: 真 (true, real) and 空 (empty, sky). Together, they form the term that can be translated as "vacuum" or "empty space." In a scientific context, 真空 refers to the absence of matter in a given space, such as in the vacuum of outer space or in laboratory equipment. This usage is similar to what we find in Portuguese, but with an interesting nuance.

In Japan, the word also carries a philosophical weight. The concept of "true emptiness" appears in Buddhist traditions, where emptiness is not just the absence of things but a state of pure potentiality. This duality between the technical and philosophical meaning makes 真空 a word rich in layers of interpretation.

How 真空 is used in everyday Japanese life

Outside of the laboratory or philosophical discourse, 真空 appears in surprisingly common situations. One example is vacuum packaging, called 真空パック (shinkū pakku), widely used to preserve food. Supermarkets and home kitchens utilize this technique, and the term has become part of everyday vocabulary.

Another interesting use is in expressions like 真空地帯 (shinkū chitai), which means "vacuum zone." Originally a military term for undefended areas, it can today describe any place or situation where something essential is lacking. For example, a neighborhood without basic services can be referred to as 真空地帯 by the residents. This flexibility demonstrates how the word adapts to different contexts.

Vacuum in culture and curiosities for memorization

Anyone who follows anime and manga has probably come across 真空 in scenes of science fiction or space battles. The word often appears when characters are in space or when there is a reference to vacuum technologies. This media use helps to fix the term in memory, especially for fans of these genres.

One tip to remember 真空 is to associate the kanjis with concrete images. 真 (true) can be thought of as something genuine, while 空 (sky/empty) refers to outer space. Together, they form the "true vacuum" of space. Another strategy is to create flashcards with real examples, like 宇宙は真空だ (outer space is a vacuum), to see the word in context.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 真空の (shinkū no) - Related to a vacuum, without air.
• 真空状態の (shinkū jōtai no) - Vacuum state, condition without atmospheric pressure.
• 真空中の (shinkū chū no) - Inside the vacuum refers to something present in an airless environment.

真空

Romaji: shinkuu
Kana: しんくう
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: vacuum; hollow; empty

Meaning in English: vacuum;hollow;empty

Definition: A state in which there are almost no gas molecules or atoms.

Example Sentences - (真空) shinkuu

See below some example sentences:

真空は空気のない状態を指します。

Shinkuu wa kuuki no nai joutai wo shimeshimasu

Vacuum refers to a state without air.

• Input - - - Please provide data entry into the system.
• 真空 - - - Japanese word that means "vacuum".
• は - - - Japanese particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 空気 - - - Japanese word that means "air".
• の - - - Japanese particle indicating possession or relationship.
• ない - - - Japanese adjective that means "nonexistent".
• 状態 - - - Japanese word that means "state" or "condition".
• を - - - Japanese particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence.
• 指します - - - Japanese verb that means "indicate" or "point".