Translation and Meaning of: 結論 - ketsuron

The Japanese word 結論 (けつろん, ketsuron) is essential for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. It frequently appears in formal discussions, academic texts, and even in everyday life, carrying a precise and useful meaning. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used by the Japanese, along with tips for memorizing it correctly.

If you have ever read a scientific article or watched a debate in Japanese, you have likely encountered 結論. This word carries significant weight in communication, as it concludes arguments and summaries. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to explain terms like this clearly and practically, helping you master Japanese with confidence.

Meaning and use of 結論

結論 means "conclusion" or "final result". It is used when someone arrives at a verdict after analyzing facts, data, or arguments. For example, in a business meeting, the boss might say: 結論を出しましょう (ketsuron o dashimashou), which means "Let's reach a conclusion".

Unlike words like 終わり (owari, "end") or 結果 (kekka, "result"), 結論 has a more deliberative tone. It not only concludes something but also synthesizes a reasoning process. Therefore, it is common to see it in academic, legal, and corporate contexts, where clarity is essential.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 結 (ketsu) means "to tie" or "to bind," while 論 (ron) means "argument" or "theory." Together, they convey the idea of "tying the points of a debate," which perfectly reflects the meaning of the word. This composition is not random: many Japanese terms arise from the logical combination of ideograms.

It is worth noting that 論 also appears in words like 討論 (touron, "debate") and 理論 (riron, "theory"). Understanding these radicals helps to memorize not only 結論 but also other related vocabulary. If you study Japanese, noticing these connections can speed up your learning.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 結論 is to associate it with concrete situations. Imagine you are in a meeting and need to summarize what was discussed. Using the phrase 結論は何ですか？ (ketsuron wa nan desu ka?, "What is the conclusion?") sounds natural and demonstrates mastery of the language.

Another tip is to practice with authentic materials, such as news or lectures in Japanese. Notice how 結論 appears in headlines like 調査の結論 (chousa no ketsuron, "conclusion of the research"). The more exposure you have to real uses, the more intuitive the term will become.