Translation and Meaning of: 蒸留 - jyouryuu

The Japanese word 蒸留[じょうりゅう] may seem complex at first glance, but its meaning and use are simpler than we might think. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is written, and in what contexts it appears in everyday Japanese. If you are studying Japanese or are simply curious about technical terms, understanding じょうりゅう can be helpful, especially if you have come across it on labels of beverages or industrial processes.

In addition to explaining the literal meaning, we will discuss how this word is perceived in Japan, its frequency of use, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. If you're looking for reliable information about 蒸留, this is the right place. Here at Suki Nihongo, our dictionary provides detailed explanations for those who want to truly learn Japanese, free from inventions or misunderstandings.

The meaning and origin of 蒸留[じょうりゅう]

Distillation [じょうりゅう] means "distillation", referring to the process of purifying liquids through evaporation and condensation. This technique is widely used in the production of alcoholic beverages such as sake, shochu, and Japanese whisky, as well as in chemical and pharmaceutical applications. The word is composed of the kanjis 蒸 (vapor, evaporation) and 留 (to retain, to remain), which together perfectly describe the concept.

The origin of the term dates back to classical Chinese, but its use in Japan was consolidated with the development of distillation techniques during the Edo period. Interestingly, although the process itself is ancient, the word じょうりゅう gained greater popularity in the 20th century, with industrialization and the increase in the production of distilled beverages in the country.

How and when to use じょうりゅう in everyday Japanese

In daily life, 蒸留 is more common in technical contexts or related to alcoholic beverages. You can find it on product labels, descriptions of industrial processes, or even in menus of specialized bars. For example, the phrase "これは蒸留酒です" (this is a distilled beverage) appears frequently on shochu or whisky packaging.

Although it is a specific term, じょうりゅう is not considered difficult or uncommon in Japanese vocabulary. Adults generally recognize it, even if they do not work in the area. A tip for memorization: associate the first kanji (蒸) with steam (蒸気) and the second (留) with the idea of something being retained, like the alcohol that is separated and preserved during distillation.

The cultural importance of 蒸留 in Japan

The distillation process has great relevance in Japanese culture, especially in the production of traditional beverages. Famous Japanese whisky brands, such as Yamazaki and Nikka, use 蒸留 in their artisanal processes, which has contributed to the international recognition of these products. This association with quality and tradition means that the word carries a positive connotation in the market.

In addition to beverages, distillation also appears in less obvious contexts, such as traditional medicine and the production of essential oils. Recently, even the Japanese beauty industry has started using the term to describe purified plant extracts. This versatility shows how じょうりゅう is present in different aspects of modern life in Japan, combining tradition and technology.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 蒸餾 (Jōryū) - Process of separating liquids by heating and cooling.
• 蒸気を凝縮する (Jōki o gyōshuku suru) - Condense vapor to form a liquid.
• 蒸気を冷却して液体にする (Jōki o reikyaku shite ekitai ni suru) - Cool vapor to convert it into liquid.
• 蒸気を集める (Jōki o atsumeru) - Collect steam.
• 蒸気を濃縮する (Jōki o nōshuku suru) - Condense steam.
• 蒸気を蒸留する (Jōki o jōryū suru) - Distilling steam.
• 蒸発して凝縮する (Jōhatsu shite gyōshuku suru) - Evaporate and then condense.
• 蒸発して液体にする (Jōhatsu shite ekitai ni suru) - Evaporate to become liquid.
• 蒸発して蒸留する (Jōhatsu shite jōryū suru) - Evaporate and then distill.
• 蒸発する (Jōhatsu suru) - The process of evaporation.
• 蒸発させて凝縮する (Jōhatsu sasete gyōshuku suru) - Cause evaporation and then condense.
• 蒸発させて液体にする (Jōhatsu sasete ekitai ni suru) - Cause evaporation to become liquid.
• 蒸発させて蒸留する (Jōhatsu sasete jōryū suru) - Cause evaporation and then distill.
• 蒸発させる (Jōhatsu saseru) - Cause evaporation.
• 蒸発凝縮する (Jōhatsu gyōshuku suru) - Evaporate and condense.
• 蒸発冷却して液体にする (Jōhatsu reikyaku shite ekitai ni suru) - Evaporate and cool to become liquid.

蒸留

Romaji: jyouryuu
Kana: じょうりゅう
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: distillation

Meaning in English: distillation

Definition: Boil a liquid to turn it into vapor and then cool it back to liquid.