Translation and Meaning of: 私立 - shiritsu

The Japanese word 私立 [しりつ] is a common term in Japan's daily life, especially in the educational and institutional context. If you've ever wondered what it means or how to use it correctly, this article will clarify everything from its basic meaning to curiosities about its use in Japanese society. Here, you will also find tips to memorize the term and understand its practical importance.

In addition to explaining the translation and writing of 私立, let's explore how this word is perceived in Japan, including its cultural context and frequency of use. If you study Japanese or are just curious about the language, this guide will help unravel a bit more about this relevant expression.

Meaning and Translation of 私立

私立 [しりつ] is a Japanese word that means "private" or "particular," often used to refer to independent institutions such as schools and universities. In contrast with 公立 (こうりつ), which indicates public institutions, 私立 is applied to organizations maintained by private funds or non-governmental entities.

In the translation to English, the term can be interpreted as "private school" or "private university," depending on the context. It's worth noting that, although it is common in the educational field, 私立 can also appear in other scenarios, such as hospitals and companies, always indicating a private character.

Origin and Usage in the Japanese Language

The origin of 私立 dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan underwent educational reforms and the distinction between public and private institutions became clearer. The kanji 私 (し) means "private" or "personal," while 立 (りつ) can be translated as "establish" or "raise." Together, they convey the idea of something founded independently.

Today, 私立 is widely used in Japan, especially in large cities where there is a high concentration of private schools and universities. The term is so common that it often appears in abbreviations like 私大 (しだい), which refers to private universities. Its use is formal, but not overly technical, appearing in both official documents and everyday conversations.

Tips for Memorizing and Using Correctly

An effective way to memorize 私立 is to associate it with its opposite, 公立 (こうりつ), which means "public." This comparison helps to solidify the meaning of both terms. Another tip is to remember that the kanji 私 appears in other words related to privacy, such as 私物 (しぶつ, "personal belongings") and 私用 (しよう, "personal use").

To use 私立 correctly, pay attention to the context. For example, when talking about education, it is common to say 私立学校 (しりつがっこう, "private school"). If you are referring to a university, you can use 私立大学 (しりつだいがく). Avoid confusing it with 市立 (しりつ), which refers to municipal institutions – the difference is in the first kanji, so be attentive to the writing!

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 私学 (shigaku) - Private educational institution; refers to any private school.
• 私立学校 (shiritsugakkou) - Private schools; a general term for schools that are not public.
• 私立校 (shiritsukou) - Private schools; a shortened way to refer to private educational institutions.

私立

Romaji: shiritsu
Kana: しりつ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Private (establishment)

Meaning in English: private (establishment)

Definition: Schools and facilities managed by individuals or organizations rather than by the public.

Example Sentences - (私立) shiritsu

See below some example sentences:

私立学校は高いです。

Shiritsu gakkou wa takai desu

Private schools are expensive.

• 私立学校 (shiritsu gakkou) - private school
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 高い (takai) - expensive high
• です (desu) - verb to be in the polite form