Translation and Meaning of: 通帳 - tsuuchou

If you have ever had to deal with banks in Japan or are learning Japanese for everyday situations, you have probably come across the word 通帳 (つうちょう). This term, essential in financial vocabulary, refers to the "bankbook" or "bank savings book" used to record transactions. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical use, as well as interesting facts that make this word easier to remember.

Unlike abstract terms, 通帳 has a very concrete application in the daily life of the Japanese. Whether for deposits, withdrawals, or balance inquiries, understanding this word is essential for anyone wishing to navigate the banking system in Japan. Let's explore its kanji writing and tips to remember it.

Meaning and use of 通帳 in everyday Japanese life

通帳 (つうちょう) is the physical passbook issued by Japanese banks to record financial transactions. Unlike the West, where digital statements dominate, many Japanese still use this traditional format. It contains a history of transactions, current balance, and account details, serving as an official proof.

Although digitization is advancing, the 通帳 remains relevant especially among the elderly and in bureaucratic procedures. Some banks still require its presentation for larger withdrawals or registration changes. Knowing this term is useful not only for Japanese students but also for foreign residents dealing with finances in the country.

Origin and composition of the kanji 通帳

The word 通帳 is formed by two kanji with logical meanings when analyzed together. 通 (つう) means "to pass through" or "to circulate," while 帳 (ちょう) refers to "register" or "book." Together, they literally describe a "book of circulation records" – in this case, of money.

This composition is a clear example of how many Japanese terms are constructed: kanjis with individual meanings that, when combined, form a new concept. Understanding this logic helps not only to memorize 通帳 but also other words that share the same characters, such as 通貨 (つうか, "current currency") or 帳面 (ちょうめん, "notebook").

Tips for memorizing and using 通帳 correctly

An effective way to memorize 通帳 is to associate it with practical situations. Imagine yourself in a Japanese bank hearing "つうちょうをお持ちですか?" (Do you have your bank book?). This real context helps you remember not only the word but also its pronunciation and usage. Another tip is to create flashcards with an image of a Japanese bankbook – usually blue or red.

It is worth noting that, although 通帳 is the standard term, some banks use variations such as 銀行通帳 (ぎんこうつうちょう) for specification. It is also common to see the expression 通帳記入 (つうちょうきにゅう), referring to the act of updating the passbook at ATMs. These details enrich the vocabulary for those dealing with finances in Japan.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 口座残高帳 (Kōza zandaka-chō) - Account balance record
• 預金通帳 (Yokin tsūchō) - Deposit account book
• 通帳簿 (Tsūchōbo) - Account book
• 預金簿 (Yokinbo) - Deposit book
• 通帳帳面 (Tsūchō chōmen) - Account registration in the book
• 預金帳面 (Yokin chōmen) - Deposit registration

通帳

Romaji: tsuuchou
Kana: つうちょう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Ticket

Meaning in English: passbook

Definition: A general ledger used by banks and other financial institutions to record the history and balances of account transactions.

Example Sentences - (通帳) tsuuchou

See below some example sentences:

私の通帳はいつも整理されています。

Watashi no tsūchō wa itsumo seiri sarete imasu

My notebook is always organized.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• の (no) - particle indicating possession, equivalent to "mine"
• 通帳 (tsūchō) - bank registry book
• は (wa) - particle that marks the topic of the sentence
• いつも (itsumo) - always
• 整理されています (seiri sarete imasu) - to be organized