Translation and Meaning of: 統合 - tougou

The Japanese word 統合 (とうごう, tōgō) is a term that carries deep meanings and practical applications in everyday life in Japan. If you are looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to use it correctly in sentences, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore everything from the composition of the kanji to the cultural context in which this word is used, as well as tips for memorizing it efficiently.

“統合” is often used in discussions about management, technology, and even in social contexts, reflecting the importance of integration and unification in Japanese thought. Whether for academic studies or linguistic curiosity, understanding this word can enrich your vocabulary and your perception of the Japanese language.

Meaning and composition of 統合

The word 統合 is made up of two kanji: 統 (tō), which means "to control" or "to unify," and 合 (gō), which represents "to join" or "to combine." Together, they convey the idea of "integration," "consolidation," or "systematic unification." It is a common term in corporate, political, and technological environments, where the harmonization of different elements is essential.

A classic example of usage is システム統合 (shisutemu tōgō), which means "system integration" – an expression very common in the IT world. Another case is 企業統合 (kigyō tōgō), referring to corporate mergers. These examples demonstrate how the word is connected to processes that require organization and coordination.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, 統合 is not just a technical term, but also reflects social values such as harmony (和, wa) and collective efficiency. Companies and institutions often seek "統合" to optimize resources, something that aligns with the Japanese mentality of teamwork and continuous improvement (改善, kaizen).

The word appears regularly in news about company mergers, government reforms, and even in discussions about education. Its presence in the media and in official documents reinforces its relevance, making it a useful term for those who wish to delve into formal or professional Japanese.

Tips for memorizing 統合

An effective way to remember 統合 is to associate its kanjis with mental images. Think of 統 as a "remote control" (統制, tōsei means "control") and 合 as "a lid fitting" (合う, au means "to fit"). Together, they form the idea of "controlling and fitting" – that is, integrating.

Another strategy is to practice with real examples, such as the expression データ統合 (dēta tōgō, "data integration"). Repeating these combinations aloud or writing them down on flashcards can accelerate learning. If you use apps like Anki, creating cards with practical sentences helps consolidate vocabulary.