Translation and Meaning of: 貿易 - boueki

The Japanese word 「貿易」 (romaji: boueki) refers to the concept of "trade" or "commercial exchange." This term is widely used in the context of international negotiations and commercial interactions. The origin of the word is deeply rooted in Japan's history, especially from the period when the country began to open its doors to foreign trade, around the 19th century.

Etymologically, 「貿易」 is composed of two kanji: 「貿」 (bou), which means "trade" or "exchange," and 「易」 (eki), which also carries the meaning of "exchange" or "change." The kanji 「貿」 is formed by the radicals 貝 (shell or coin, symbolizing value) and 卯 (an astrological symbol implying movement), while 「易」 includes the radical 日 (sun, representing clarity or simplicity). Together, these kanji indicate the idea of the movement of goods and values between two or more parties.

The evolution of the expression 「貿易」 is linked to the development of trade in Japan. During the Edo Period (1603-1868), Japan followed a policy of isolation known as Sakoku, severely limiting foreign trade. It was only after the Meiji Restoration at the end of the 19th century that Japan began to emerge as a commercial power. In this context, 「貿易」 was established as a central term in describing the country's economic and business activities with the rest of the world.

In the contemporary global scenario, the term 「貿易」 is used to address everything from the trade of goods and services to complex trade agreements between nations. It is an essential term for understanding the economic and political relationships that shape the modern international landscape. Often, the word is associated with other expressions and concepts, such as 「自由貿易」 (jiyuu boueki, or "free trade") and 「貿易赤字」 (boueki sekiji, or "trade deficit"), which expand the discussion on the meaning and implications of trade in today's society.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 国際貿易 (Kokusaibōeki) - International trade, commercial relations between countries.
• 外貿 (Gaibō) - Foreign trade generally refers to commercial transactions that take place outside the country.
• 貿易取引 (Bōekitorihiki) - Commercial transactions refer to the agreements and business operations carried out.
• 貿易交渉 (Bōeikōshō) - Commercial negotiation refers to discussions and agreements between countries or companies to facilitate trade.

貿易

Romaji: boueki
Kana: ぼうえき
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: trade (foreign)

Meaning in English: trade (foreign)

Definition: Refers to the exchanges and transactions of goods and services between countries and companies.

Example Sentences - (貿易) boueki

See below some example sentences:

海運は国際貿易にとって重要な役割を果たしています。

Kaiun wa kokusai bōeki ni totte jūyōna yakuwari o hatashite imasu

Maritime transport plays an important role in international trade.

The transport of water plays an important role in international trade.

• 海運 (kaigun) - Maritime transport
• 国際貿易 (kokusai boueki) - international trade
• にとって (ni totte) - for
• 重要な (juuyou na) - important
• 役割 (yakuwari) - role/function
• を果たしています (o hatashite imasu) - performs