Translation and Meaning of: 電流 - denryuu
The Japanese word 電流[でんりゅう] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting meanings and uses in everyday life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the term, this article will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in the Japanese language. Additionally, we will look at some tips for memorizing this word and its cultural context, all based on reliable sources.
Electric current [でんりゅう] is a compound word made up of two kanji: 電 (electricity) and 流 (flow). Together, they form a term that appears in technical, educational, and even everyday conversations. Let's better understand how this word functions and why it is relevant for those who want to master Japanese.
Meaning and use of 電流 [でんりゅう]
Electric current [でんりゅう] literally means "electric current" in Japanese. It is a technical term, but it also appears in everyday situations, especially in discussions about electronics, physics, and engineering. If you have studied science, you likely recognize the concept, but in Japan, this word has a broader usage than just in academic contexts.
For example, in manuals for electronic devices or in science classes, 電流[でんりゅう] is often used to explain basic concepts of electricity. Additionally, it may appear in news about failures in electrical systems or in discussions about renewable energy. Its usage is straightforward and objective, without many variations in meaning.
Origin and composition of kanjis
The etymology of 電流[でんりゅう] is quite clear when we analyze its individual kanjis. The first, 電, represents electricity and is used in several other related words, such as 電気[でんき] (electricity) and 電話[でんわ] (telephone). The second kanji, 流, means "flow" or "current", appearing in terms like 流れ[ながれ] (flow) and 流行[りゅうこう] (trend).
This combination makes sense, since electric current is, essentially, the flow of electrons. The word emerged during the Meiji period, when Japan underwent intense modernization and incorporated Western technical terms. Unlike some words that have older origins, 電流[でんりゅう] is an example of how Japanese adapted modern scientific concepts.
Tips for memorization and curiosities
An effective way to memorize 電流[でんりゅう] is to associate its kanjis with concrete images. For example, 電 (electricity) can be remembered by the lightning bolt that appears on danger signs, while 流 (flow) reminds one of water flowing in a river. Combining the two, you get the idea of "flowing electricity," which helps to reinforce the meaning.
An interesting fact is that, although 電流[でんりゅう] is a technical term, it also appears in less formal expressions. In mangas and animes with science fiction themes, for example, it's common to see characters using this word in dialogues about advanced technology. This shows how Japanese integrates scientific vocabulary even in entertainment.
Vocabulary
Expand your vocabulary with related words:
Synonyms and similar words
- 電気の流れ (Denki no nagare) - Electricity flow
- 電気流 (Denki-ryū) - Electric current
- 電気の電流 (Denki no denryū) - Electric current of electricity (emphasis on electricity)
- 電気の通り道 (Denki no tōrimichi) - Pathway of electricity
Romaji: denryuu
Kana: でんりゅう
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2
Translation / Meaning: Electric current
Meaning in English: electric current
Definition: The force that makes electricity flow, the flow that moves electrons.
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How to Write in Japanese - (電流) denryuu
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (電流) denryuu:
Example Sentences - (電流) denryuu
See below some example sentences:
Denryuu ga nagarete imasu
Electric current is flowing.
The current is flowing.
- 電流 - Electric current
- が - subject particle
- 流れています - is flowing
Other Words of this Type: Noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: Noun
