Translation and Meaning of: 窓口 - madoguchi

The Japanese word 「窓口」 (madoguchi), composed of two 「漢字」 (kanji), has an interesting etymology that perfectly reflects its current meaning. The first kanji, 「窓」 (mado), means window. It is made up of the radical for "hole," which, in a historical context, refers to the idea of an opening in the wall. The second kanji, 「口」 (kuchi), means mouth or opening, a symbolic representation of a place where communication or interactions take place. When combined, these kanji form an expression that denotes a point of contact or communication, often translated as "counter" or "service desk."

In Japan, the term 「窓口」 (madoguchi) is widely used in administrative and commercial contexts to refer to the specific location where transactions or initial interactions take place. If you have ever visited a Japanese bank or train station, you certainly had to go to the madoguchi to obtain information or services. It is an essential point of reference in many environments, serving as the initial channel for customer service.

The word has evolved over time, maintaining its practical relevance and adapting to new social and economic contexts. With an ancient origin linked to architecture and urban planning, the function of the 「窓口」 has expanded as Japanese society has become more complex and organized. Furthermore, the transformation of the term reflects the constant evolution of language and the adaptation of words to colloquial and formal use, making it an indispensable element in everyday communication in contemporary Japan.

Moreover, 「窓口」 (madoguchi) can also be used metaphorically to describe any point of contact or initial interface in communication, especially in the digital world, where many online systems also refer to their digital 'gateways' as madoguchi electronic. Technological advancement has recreated the traditional notion of the term, while maintaining its functional essence in an increasingly interconnected world.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 窓口 (madoguchi) - Service, information desk.
• 受付 (uketsuke) - Reception, service desk.
• カウンター (kauntaa) - Counter, usually used in commercial contexts.
• 受付窓口 (uketsuke madoguchi) - Reception desk.
• 受付所 (uketsuke-sho) - Location where the reception takes place.
• 受付け所 (uketsuke-takushi) - Another term for reception area.
• 受付け窓口 (uketsuke-takushi madoguchi) - Reception desk, emphasizing the service function.
• 窓口業務 (madoguchi gyoumu) - Counter services.
• 窓口係 (madoguchi kakari) - Staff responsible for counter service.
• 窓口案内 (madoguchi annai) - Information and guidance at the counter.
• 窓口対応 (madoguchi taiou) - Customer service at the counter.
• 窓口サービス (madoguchi saabisu) - Counter service.
• 窓口業務員 (madoguchi gyoumuin) - Employee responsible for counter services.

窓口

Romaji: madoguchi
Kana: まどぐち
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: box office

Meaning in English: ticket window

Definition: A counter in a store or facility where goods are paid for, received and processed.

Example Sentences - (窓口) madoguchi

See below some example sentences:

窓口でチケットを買いました。

Madoguchi de chiketto wo kaimashita

I bought a ticket at the counter.

Bought a ticket at the counter.

• 窓口 (madoguchi) - balcão
• で (de) - in
• チケット (chiketto) - bilhete
• を (wo) - direct object
• 買いました (kaimashita) - I bought