Translation and Meaning of: 起伏 - kifuku

The Japanese word 起伏[きふく] carries a rich and versatile meaning, often used to describe both physical and emotional aspects. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and everyday usage, as well as cultural curiosities that help understand how the Japanese perceive this expression. If you are studying Japanese or just have an interest in the language, discover why 起伏 is a word worth knowing.

Meaning and translation of 起伏

起伏[きふく] can be translated as "ups and downs" or "undulations," referring to variations in both terrain and life situations. In the literal sense, it describes hills, mountains, or any irregular surfaces. In the figurative sense, it expresses emotional changes, such as joys and sorrows, or even fluctuations in projects and careers.

An interesting feature is that, although it is composed of the kanjis 起 (to rise) and 伏 (to lower), its meaning goes beyond the simple combination of these ideas. In Japan, it is often used in contexts that involve persistence, such as in motivational phrases or reflections on life.

Everyday use and practical examples

In their daily lives, the Japanese use 起伏 to talk about everything from geography to personal experiences. For example, when describing a winding road, one might say "この道は起伏が多い" (kono michi wa kifuku ga ooi), meaning "this road has many undulations." In conversations about careers, it's common to hear "人生には起伏がある" (jinsei ni wa kifuku ga aru), meaning "life has its ups and downs."

It is worth noting that, although it is a common word, 起伏 does not appear as frequently as synonyms like 変化 (henka, "change"). Its usage tends to be more poetic or reflective, often in books, speeches, or advice.

Cultural curiosities and memorization tips

An effective way to memorize 起伏 is to associate its kanjis with mental images. The first, 起, refers to something that rises (like the sun rising), while 伏 suggests something that hides (like a person bending down). Together, they create the idea of continuous movement between rising and falling, perfect for describing variable terrain or emotions.

Culturally, the word reflects Japanese values such as resilience and acceptance of hardships. In literary works and animes, it is common to see characters facing "起伏" as a metaphor for challenges that make them stronger. This notion of growth through difficulties is central to many Japanese narratives.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 変化 (Henka) - Change; change of state or condition.
• 波動 (Hadou) - Wave; oscillatory movement, often in physical or emotional contexts.
• 揺らぎ (Yuragi) - Oscillation; fluctuation or tremor, often in a subtle way.
• 変動 (Hendou) - Fluctuation; variation, especially in economic or climatic contexts.
• 変遷 (Hensen) - Transition; a gradual change over time, often related to historical periods.

起伏

Romaji: kifuku
Kana: きふく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: undulation

Meaning in English: undulation

Definition: Differences in terrain elevation.

Example Sentences - (起伏) kifuku

See below some example sentences:

この山の道は起伏が激しいですね。

Kono yama no michi wa kifuku ga hageshii desu ne

This mountain road is intensely wavy.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this"
• 山 - noun that means "mountain"
• の - particle indicating possession, in this case, "of the mountain"
• 道 - noun that means "path"
• は - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case, "the path of the mountain"
• 起伏 - noun that means "ups and downs"
• が - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, in this case, "the ups and downs"
• 激しい - Adjective that means "intense" or "strong"
• です - auxiliary verb that indicates the polite form of the sentence
• ね - particle that indicates the expectation of confirmation or agreement from the listener, in this case, "isn't it?"