Translation and Meaning of: 答案 - touan

The Japanese word 答案 (とうあん) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries important nuances for those studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will see practical tips for memorizing it and contexts in which it frequently appears.

If you have ever wondered what 答案 means exactly or how to use it in conversations or texts, this guide will help. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and precise explanations, based on reliable sources, so that you can learn efficiently.

Meaning and usage of 答案 (とうあん)

The term 答案 is made up of the kanji 答 (answer) and 案 (plan, proposal), forming the meaning of "written answer" or "solution to a problem." It is frequently used in academic contexts, such as tests and exercises, referring to the answers that students must provide.

Unlike words like 返事 (へんじ), which means "reply" in a more general sense, 答案 has a more specific use. For example, in phrases like 答案用紙 (とうあんようし), which means "answer sheet," its connection to assessments and tests becomes clear.

Origin and structure of kanjis

The origin of 答案 dates back to classical Chinese, where the characters 答 and 案 were already used in similar contexts. The kanji 答 combines the bamboo radical (⺮) with 合 (to unite), suggesting the idea of "responding appropriately." On the other hand, 案 has the wood radical (木) and 安 (safe), indicating a "well-thought-out proposal."

This combination reflects the importance placed on precision and clarity in formal responses in Japan. It is worth noting that, although 答案 is a common word, it is not often used in informal conversations, being more common in educational or bureaucratic settings.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 答案 is to associate it with concrete situations, such as tests or forms. Practicing with sentences like 「答案を提出する」(submit the answers) helps to reinforce the term. Another tip is to notice that it often appears alongside 用紙 (form), forming 答案用紙.

Avoid confusing 答案 with terms like 解答 (かいとう), which also means "answer," but focuses on the process of solving something. While 解答 is more about the solution itself, 答案 refers to the document or record of that solution. This difference highlights how Japanese values lexical specificity.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 回答 (kaitou) - Response; generally refers to an answer to a question or inquiry.
• 解答 (kaitou) - Answer; frequently used in mathematical contexts or exams.
• 答え (kotae) - Answer: a more generic and frequently used term in everyday language.
• 答 (kota) - Answer; abbreviated form of "kotae", used in informal contexts.
• 解 (kai) - Solution; often focused on solving a problem or issue.
• 解決策 (kaiketsusaku) - Solution plan; refers to a strategy or approach to solving a problem.
• 解法 (kaihou) - Solution method; expression specifically used for methods in mathematical or logical problems.

答案

Romaji: touan
Kana: とうあん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: exam document; exam script

Meaning in English: examination paper;examination script

Definition: Excuse me, I would like to know the brief definition of which word?

Example Sentences - (答案) touan

See below some example sentences:

答案を教えてください。

Kotae o oshiete kudasai

Please tell me the answer.

Please tell me the answer.

• 答案 - means "answer" in Japanese
• を - Direct object particle in Japanese
• 教えて - verb "teach" in the imperative in Japanese
• ください - particle of request in Japanese, which indicates a polite request