Translation and Meaning of: 設備 - setsubi

The Japanese word 設備[せつび] is a common term in everyday Japan, especially in professional and industrial contexts. If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding its meaning, usage, and origin can be very helpful. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is written, and in which situations it is most commonly used. Additionally, we will see some tips for memorizing it and its impact on Japanese culture.

If you have ever searched for "what does 設備 mean" or "how to use 設備 in Japanese", this text will clarify your doubts. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide accurate and practical explanations for Japanese learners. Let's start with the basics: what exactly does this word mean and how does it fit into everyday vocabulary?

Meaning and use of 設備

設備[せつび] can be translated as "equipment," "installation," or "infrastructure." It is often used to refer to machines, systems, or structures necessary for the operation of businesses, factories, hospitals, and even homes. For example, when a Japanese person talks about the 設備 of a building, they are mentioning everything that makes up its functional structure, such as elevators, electrical systems, and plumbing.

The term also appears in more technical contexts, such as in operation manuals or discussions about industrial modernization. If you've ever watched a dorama or anime that deals with the corporate environment, it's likely that you've heard this word. It is not exclusive to very formal registers, but it is also not something used in casual conversations among friends.

Origin and writing of 設備

The word 設備 is composed of two kanji: 設 (setsu, establish) and 備 (bi, prepare). Together, they convey the idea of something that has been prepared or installed for a specific purpose. This combination reflects the practical meaning of the word, as equipment and facilities are precisely items that serve a defined function.

It's important to note that 設備 does not have alternative readings or significant dialectal variations. It is pronounced the same way throughout Japan, which makes learning easier. Regarding the writing, the kanji is not among the most complex, but it is important to pay attention to the strokes of 備, which has more components.

Tips for memorizing 設備

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate it with real situations. Think of places that rely on specific equipment, such as hospitals or industries. Visualizing these contexts helps to remember that 設備 refers to something essential for the functioning of a location. Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences like "この工場の設備は新しいです" (The equipment in this factory is new).

Additionally, observing the kanji 備 can be useful. It appears in other words like 準備 (junbi, preparation) and 予備 (yobi, reserve). Noticing these connections makes Japanese vocabulary more cohesive and easier to absorb. If you already know any of these terms, it becomes simpler to understand and retain 設備.

Cultural context and frequency of use

In Japan, the word 設備 is especially relevant in discussions about technology and operational efficiency. Companies often invest in 設備の近代化 (modernization of equipment) to increase productivity. This aspect reflects the Japanese appreciation for innovation and organization, which are significant characteristics of the local culture.

In terms of frequency, 設備 is not a word that appears all the time in informal conversations, but it is quite common in news, technical documents, and professional environments. Those who work or study in fields such as engineering, management, or architecture will certainly encounter it regularly. For Japanese learners, it is worth getting to know, even if it is not a priority in the early levels of learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 設備 (setsubi) - Equipment and installation in general, aimed at providing support to a structure.
• 施設 (shisetsu) - Installation or establishment, often referring to a specific location with a defined function.
• 器具 (kigu) - Utensils or specific instruments, usually smaller, used in various activities.
• 装置 (sōchi) - Device or mechanism that makes up a technical system, often more complex.
• 機器 (kiki) - Technical equipment or electronic devices, often used in industrial or technological contexts.

設備

Romaji: setsubi
Kana: せつび
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: equipment; device; installations; installation

Meaning in English: equipment;device;facilities;installation

Definition: Facilities, machines, equipment, etc. created for a specific purpose.

Example Sentences - (設備) setsubi

See below some example sentences:

このホテルは高級な設備とサービスを提供しています。

Kono hoteru wa kōkyūna setsubi to sābisu o teikyō shite imasu

This hotel offers luxury equipment and services.

• このホテル - "this hotel"
• は - Japanese topic particle
• 高級な - "Luxurious" in Japanese, with the suffix "na" indicating an adjective.
• 設備 - "Installations" in Japanese
• と - Particle that indicates "and" in Japanese
• サービス - "Services" in Japanese
• を - Particle that indicates the direct object in Japanese
• 提供しています - "Oferece" in Japanese, with the suffix "teiru" indicating continuous action and the verb "teikyou" meaning "to provide"