Translation and Meaning of: 税金 - zeikin

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about Japanese culture, you may have come across the word 税金 (ぜいきん, zeikin). It is essential in everyday vocabulary, especially for those living in the country or dealing with personal finances. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is perceived in Japanese society, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

Tax is one of those words that frequently appears in news, forms, and conversations about the economy. Its use goes beyond the bureaucratic context, reflecting values and social obligations in Japan. Understanding its meaning and application can be useful not only for Japanese language students but also for those who wish to better understand how Japanese society functions.

The meaning and origin of 税金

The word 税金 is composed of two kanjis: 税 (zei), which means "tax," and 金 (kin), which can be translated as "money" or "gold." Together, they form the term that designates the mandatory payment to the government, that is, "taxes." This construction is straightforward and facilitates the association with its meaning, making it easier to remember.

The origin of the kanji 税 dates back to ancient China, where it was used to represent taxes and contributions. In Japan, its use was consolidated during the Edo period, when the tax collection system became more structured. Meanwhile, 金 is one of the oldest and most versatile kanjis, found in various words related to finance.

How 税金 is used in Japan

In Japanese daily life, 税金 appears in various contexts, from discussions about public policies to informal conversations about salaries. Many Japanese complain about high taxes, especially when it comes to consumption (消費税, shōhizei) or income. However, there is also a sense of collective responsibility in contributing to public services like healthcare and education.

An interesting fact is that Japan has a relatively simple tax declaration system compared to other countries, but the bureaucracy can be challenging for foreigners. Knowing the term 税金 (zeikin) is useful for filling out forms, understanding paychecks, and even discussing tax issues with coworkers.

Tips for memorizing 税金

An effective way to remember 税金 is to associate the kanjis with mental images. For example, 税 (tax) can be remembered as a "cut" in the salary, while 金 (money) is a universal symbol. Another strategy is to use the word in everyday sentences, such as "今月の税金は高い" (kogetsu no zeikin wa takai – "This month's taxes are high").

Moreover, apps like Anki can help review the term regularly. Creating flashcards with practical examples reinforces memorization. If you already live in Japan, paying attention to news or discussions about tax reforms is also a great way to consolidate your vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 公共料金 (Kōkyō ryōkin) - Public fees
• 税 (Zei) - Tax
• 財政収入 (Zaisei shūnyū) - Tax receipts
• 税収 (Zeishū) - Tax revenue
• 税金収入 (Zeikin shūnyū) - Tax recipe
• 税金収益 (Zeikin shūeki) - Tax profits
• 税収益 (Zeishūeki) - Tax revenue

税金

Romaji: zeikin
Kana: ぜいきん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: tax; duty

Meaning in English: tax;duty

Definition: A public burden imposed on residents of a country or region.

Example Sentences - (税金) zeikin

See below some example sentences:

控除は税金を減らすための重要な手段です。

Koujo wa zeikin wo herasu tame no juuyou na shudan desu

Deductions are an important means of reducing taxes.

The deduction is an important means of reducing taxes.

• 控除 - means "deduction" in Japanese.
• は - It is a grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 税金 - means "tax" in Japanese.
• を - is a grammatical particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence.
• 減らす - means "decrease" in Japanese.
• ため - means "to" or "in order to" in Japanese.
• の - is a grammatical particle that indicates possession or attribution.
• 重要な - means "important" in Japanese.
• 手段 - means "middle" or "way" in Japanese.
• です - is a polite way of stating something in Japanese.

税金を払うのは義務です。

Zeikin wo harau no wa gimu desu

Paying taxes is a must.

Payment of taxes is mandatory.

• 税金 - Tax
• を - object particle
• 払う - pay
• のは - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 義務 - Duty, obligation
• です - Verb to be in the polite form