Translation and Meaning of: 脚本 - kyakuhon

If you have ever watched an anime, dorama, or Japanese theater play, you have probably come across the word 脚本 (きゃくほん) somewhere. But what does it exactly mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and use of this word in everyday Japanese, as well as curiosities that will help you understand its cultural context. If you are learning Japanese or just have an interest in the language, this guide will clarify your questions about 脚本 in a straightforward and practical way.

脚本 (きゃくほん) significa "roteiro" em português.

The word 脚本 refers to the script or screenplay of a dramatic work, be it a movie, a play, or even a TV show. In Japanese, it is composed of the kanji 脚 (leg, base) and 本 (book, origin), suggesting the idea of a "base text" that supports the production. Unlike a simple dialogue, a 脚本 includes descriptions of the setting, character actions, and technical instructions.

In Japan, the work of a scriptwriter (脚本家) is highly valued, especially in the entertainment industry. Renowned figures like Akira Kurosawa and Hayao Miyazaki are known not only for their direction but also for their detailed scripts. If you've ever seen the credits of a dorama, you've likely noticed that the 脚本 is given prominence, often even before the director.

Origin and Evolution of the term

The word 脚本 has its roots in traditional Japanese theater, especially in kabuki and noh. Originally, these scripts were handwritten and passed down from generation to generation, with few alterations. Over time, the term was adopted by cinema and television, maintaining its essence as a narrative guide. Interestingly, before the Meiji era, Japan did not have a strong tradition of written scripts, as many plays were transmitted orally.

With the modernization of the country in the 19th century, the Western concept of script was incorporated into Japanese culture, and 脚本 became the standard term. Today, it is used for both traditional works and contemporary productions. If you visit bookstores in Japan, you will find entire sections dedicated to 脚本 of famous movies and series, often published as books for fans and film students.

How is 脚本 used in Japan today?

In the Japanese entertainment industry, the 脚本 is the backbone of any production. Unlike in some Western countries, where scripts may be altered during filming, in Japan there is a great respect for the original text. Famous screenwriters, such as Mitani Kōki, are treated like celebrities, and their work is highly anticipated.

An interesting aspect is that many 脚本 include detailed instructions on the intonation of speeches and even dramatic pauses. This reflects the importance placed on the precision of language in Japanese culture. For students of Japanese, reading 脚本 can be an excellent exercise, as it shows the language in real use, with all its nuances and variations of register.

In addition to entertainment, the concept of 脚本 appears in business contexts, where it is sometimes said to "script" important presentations or meetings. This metaphor reveals how the idea of meticulous planning is deeply rooted in the Japanese mindset, whether in the arts or in business.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

台本 (Daihon) - Script, original script used in performances.
シナリオ (Shinario) - Script generally refers to a movie or drama script.
脚色 (Kyaku shoku) - Adaptation or drafting of a script, often with creative changes.
脚本稿 (Kyakuhonkō) - Manuscript of the screenplay, final written version of the script.
脚本家 (Kyakuhonka) - Screenwriter, the person who writes the script.