Translation and Meaning of: 関税 - kanzei

If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in the language, you may have come across the word 関税[かんぜい]. But what does it mean exactly? In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Furthermore, we will see tips for memorizing it and curiosities that go beyond the dictionary. Whether for travel, business, or studies, understanding this word can be useful in various situations.

The meaning and use of 関税[かんぜい]

The word 関税[かんぜい] is composed of the kanji 関 (barrier, border) and 税 (tax), and its main meaning is "customs tariff" or "import tax." In Japan, it is often used in contexts related to international trade, customs legislation, and economic policies. If you have ever purchased something from abroad, you have probably had to deal with this term.

In daily life, 関税 appears in news about trade agreements, political debates, and even in conversations about online shopping. For example, when someone imports a product, it's common to hear phrases like "関税がかかるかもしれない" (customs duties may apply). Although it's not a word used casually, understanding it is essential for those dealing with imports or living in Japan.

The origin and writing of 関税

The etymology of 関税 dates back to the Edo period when Japan began to establish taxation systems at ports and borders. The kanji 関, which means "barrier" or "checkpoint," was used in places like 箱根の関 (the checkpoint of Hakone), where goods were inspected. On the other hand, 税, as in 消費税 (consumption tax), has always been associated with taxation.

It is worth noting that 関税 is not a word exclusive to Japanese. It exists in Chinese (关税) and Korean (관세) with the same meaning, which eases the process for those studying multiple Asian languages. However, pronunciation and some usage details may vary. In Japan, it is written only in kanji, without versions in hiragana or katakana, which reinforces its formal character.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 関税 is to associate the kanjis with practical situations. Think of 関 as a "physical barrier" (like a port) and 税 as "tax." Together, they form the concept of "tax charged at the border." Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences like "この商品には関税がかかります" (this product is subject to customs duty).

Interestingly, Japan has one of the strictest customs policies in the world, especially for agricultural products. This makes 関税 a frequent term in discussions about economic protectionism. In 2021, for example, the country temporarily reduced tariffs on masks and medical equipment during the pandemic, showing how the term is related to political and social decisions.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

関税 (Kanzei) - Import tax, applicable to goods entering the country.
輸入税 (Yunyuzei) - Import tax, with emphasis on the value of the goods.
輸出税 (Yushutsuzei) - Export tax, rarely applied in Japan.
税関税 (Zei Kanzzei) - Customs duty, involved in specific customs transactions.
税関料 (Zei Kanryou) - Administrative fee or charge applied by customs.
税関課税 (Zei Kan Kazei) - Imposition of taxes by customs on goods.
税関徴収 (Zei Kan Choushuu) - Tax collection carried out by customs.
税関徴収税 (Zei Kan Choushuu Zei) - Specific tax applied during the collection of duties by customs.