Translation and Meaning of: 長官 - choukan

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 長官[ちょうかん]. But what does it mean exactly? In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will understand its cultural context and some tips to memorize it easily. Whether to expand your vocabulary or to satisfy your linguistic curiosity, this guide will help you master this word.

Meaning and usage of 長官 [ちょうかん]

The word 長官[ちょうかん] is composed of the kanji 長 (chief, leader) and 官 (public official, officer). Together, they form a term that means "high official," "director," or "head of a government agency." It is frequently used in formal contexts, such as in titles of public or military positions.

In Japan, it is common to find this word in news or official documents. For example, 警察長官[けいさつちょうかん] refers to the "chief of police," while 防衛長官[ぼうえいちょうかん] means "minister of defense." Its use is strongly tied to hierarchies and structures of power, being rare in informal conversations.

Origin and Evolution of the term

The origin of 長官 dates back to the ancient Japanese bureaucratic system, influenced by the Chinese model. The kanji 官, in particular, was used to designate administrative positions since the Nara period (710-794). Over time, the word became established in official vocabulary, retaining its meaning of hierarchical authority.

Although its central meaning has not changed much, the application of the word has adapted to modern structures. Today, it appears in contexts such as government, armed forces, and even in companies, although less frequently in the latter case. Its presence in the media and political speeches reinforces its formal nature.

Tips for memorizing 長官[ちょうかん]

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate its kanjis with mental images. The character 長 can be remembered as a "tall leader," while 官 refers to "government offices." Together, they form the idea of a "high-ranking chief."

Another tip is to practice with real examples, such as watching Japanese news or reading articles about politics. Listening to the pronunciation "choukan" in authentic contexts helps to internalize the term. Additionally, noting down sentences like 長官が演説した (The chief gave a speech) can reinforce your learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 大臣 (Daijin) - Cabinet member; minister of a government.
• 官僚 (Kanryō) - High-ranking public official; bureaucrat.
• 上司 (Jōshi) - Supervisor; boss; person in a superior position.
• 政治家 (Seijika) - Politician; a person involved in politics.

長官

Romaji: choukan
Kana: ちょうかん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Boss; (Government) Secretary

Meaning in English: chief;(government) secretary

Definition: a person who holds an important public position.

Example Sentences - (長官) choukan

See below some example sentences:

長官は国の重要なポジションです。

Choukan wa kuni no juuyou na pojiton desu

The office of choukan is an important position in the country.

The secretary is an important position for the country.

• 長官 - means "boss" or "leader" in Japanese.
• は - topic particle in Japanese, used to indicate the subject of the sentence.
• 国 - "País" significa "国" (kuni) em japonês.
• の - Japanese particle of possession, used to indicate that a "country" owns something.
• 重要な - means "important" in Japanese, used as an adjective for "ポジション".
• ポジション - means "position" in English, but is often used in Japanese to refer to a job or position.
• です - verb "to be" in Japanese, used to indicate that the sentence is a statement or affirmation.