Translation and Meaning of: 贅沢 - zeitaku

The Japanese word 贅沢[ぜいたく] (zeitaku) is a fascinating term that carries important cultural and linguistic nuances for those studying the language. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. If you've ever wondered how to express the idea of "luxury" or "extravagance" in Japanese, understanding ぜいたく is essential.

In addition to uncovering the translation and writing of this word, let's dive into its social context and how it reflects Japanese values. Whether to enrich your vocabulary or to better understand Japanese culture, this guide provides practical information and curiosities based on reliable sources. Here at Suki Nihongo, our Japanese dictionary, we prioritize clear and accurate explanations to help you master the language.

Meaning and translation of 贅沢 (ぜいたく)

The word 贅沢[ぜいたく] can be translated as "luxury," "extravagance," or "excess." It describes something that goes beyond what is necessary, often with a connotation of wastefulness or ostentation. Unlike in Portuguese, where "luxury" can have a positive meaning, in Japanese, ぜいたく often carries an implicit critique.

In everyday contexts, the Japanese use this word to refer to unnecessary expenses or behaviors considered indulgent. For example, buying something expensive without real necessity can be called ぜいたく. This perspective reflects cultural values such as modesty and frugality, which are still very much present in Japanese society.

Origin and writing of the kanjis 贺贅.

The composition of the kanjis 贅沢 reveals a lot about its meaning. The first character, 贅 (zei), contains the radical 貝 (kaigara), which represents "shell" or "money," suggesting a connection with wealth. The second kanji, 沢 (taku), means "swamp" or "abundance," reinforcing the idea of excess.

According to the etymological dictionary 漢字源 (Kanji Gen), 贅沢 emerged during the Edo period to criticize the excessive spending of the elite. Over time, the term became popularized to describe any form of consumption seen as unnecessary. This historical origin helps to understand why the word still carries a pejorative tone in many contexts.

Cultural and social use of ぜいたく in Japan

In contemporary Japan, ぜいたく is a word loaded with social values. While in the West luxury is often associated with status and success, the Japanese tend to view excess with some suspicion. Especially among older generations, avoiding ぜいたく is seen as a virtue.

This does not mean that the concept is always negative. In specific contexts, such as advertisements for premium products, 贅沢 can be used positively to suggest superior quality. However, even in these cases, the message often emphasizes that it is a "deserved" or "justified" luxury, showing how Japanese culture balances desire and moderation.

Tips for memorizing 贅沢 (ぜいたく)

An effective way to remember this word is to associate its kanjis with their meaning. Remember that 贅 (zei) contains the radical for money (貝), while 沢 (taku) refers to abundance - together, they paint the image of "excess money." This visual decomposition helps to fix both the writing and the meaning of the word.

Another strategy is to create sentences with real contexts, such as "毎日外食するのは贅沢だ" (Eating out every day is extravagant). By linking the term to concrete situations, you absorb not only the vocabulary but also the cultural sense behind it. Suki Nihongo offers authentic examples to practice this type of association.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 贅沢 (ぜいたく) - Luxury, ostentation
• ゼイタク (ぜいたく) - 贅沢のカタカナ形は「ゼイタク」です。

贅沢

Romaji: zeitaku
Kana: ぜいたく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: Lux; extravagance

Meaning in English: luxury;extravagance

Definition: Wasting money and time and living according to their desires.

Example Sentences - (贅沢) zeitaku

See below some example sentences:

贅沢は敵だ。

Zeiwazawa teki da

Luxury is the enemy.

Luxury is an enemy.

• 贅沢 - means "luxury" or "excess".
• は - Grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 敵 - means "enemy" or "opponent".
• だ - verb "to be" in the affirmative form.