Translation and Meaning of: 電灯 - dentou

The Japanese word 電灯[でんとう] is a common term in everyday life in Japan, but it can raise questions for language learners. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in the Japanese language. Furthermore, we will look at interesting facts about its cultural usage and tips for memorizing it effectively. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese refer to lamps and artificial lighting, this text will clarify everything.

Meaning and origin of 電灯 [でんとう]

The word 電灯[でんとう] is composed of two kanji: 電 (den), which means "electricity," and 灯 (tou), which refers to "light" or "lamp." Together, they form the term that describes electric lights, such as lamps and streetlights. This combination reflects the technological evolution of Japan during the Meiji Era, when electricity began to gain popularity in the country.

The use of 電灯 became more frequent in the late 19th century, replacing older terms like 灯り (akari), which referred to light sources in general, including candles and lanterns. Today, 電灯 is widely used in both formal and informal contexts, appearing in manuals, signage, and everyday conversations.

Everyday use and practical examples

In Japan, 電灯 is used to describe everything from small household lamps to public lighting systems. Phrases like "電灯をつける" (turn on the light) or "電灯が切れた" (the bulb has burnt out) are common in homes and offices. The word also appears in notices such as "電灯を消してください" (please turn off the light), demonstrating its usefulness in everyday life.

It is worth noting that, although 電灯 is a generic term, the Japanese also use more specific words, such as 蛍光灯 (keikoutou) for fluorescent lamps or LED電球 (LED denkyuu) for LED bulbs. However, 電灯 remains the most direct and comprehensive way to refer to electric lighting.

Trivia and memorization tips

An effective way to remember 電灯 is to associate its kanjis with everyday objects. For example, 電 (den) appears in words like 電話 (denwa - telephone) and 電気 (denki - electricity), while 灯 (tou) is used in 懐中電灯 (kaichuu dentou - flashlight). This connection helps to solidify the term in your vocabulary.

Culturally, the popularization of 電灯 in Japan is linked to historical events, such as the Tokyo Industrial Exhibition in 1928, where new lighting technologies were showcased. Today, cities like Tokyo and Osaka are famous for their neon lights, showing how electricity has transformed the urban landscape of the country.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 照明 (Shōmei) - lighting
• ライト (Raito) - Light (typically refers to artificial lighting)
• 光源 (Kōgen) - Light source
• 照明器具 (Shōmei kigu) - Lighting equipment
• 電気灯 (Denki tō) - Electric lamp
• 電気照明 (Denki shōmei) - Electric lighting
• 電球 (Denkyū) - Lamp (bulb)
• ランプ (Ranpu) - Lamp (general)
• 灯り (Akari) - Ambient light or brightness
• 灯具 (Tōgu) - Lighting device
• 灯火 (Tōka) - Call or light of a lamp
• 明かり (Akari) - Light (general, often in softer contexts)
• 光明 (Kōmyō) - Clarity, light, often used in metaphorical or spiritual contexts.
• 光明器具 (Kōmyō kigu) - Bright lighting equipment
• 光明装置 (Kōmyō sōchi) - Clear lighting device
• 光明照明 (Kōmyō shōmei) - Bright lighting
• 光明照明器具 (Kōmyō shōmei kigu) - Equipment for bright lighting
• 光明照明装置 (Kōmyō shōmei sōchi) - Device for bright lighting
• 光明ランプ (Kōmyō ranpu) - Clear light lamp
• 光明電球 (Kōmyō denkyū) - Light bulb for bright light
• 光明電灯 (Kōmyō dentō) - Clear light electric lamp (used in specific contexts)
• 光明電気照明 (Kōmyō denki shōmei) - Bright electric lighting
• 光明電気照明器具 (Kōmyō denki shōmei kigu) - Equipment for clear light electric lighting
• 光明電気照明装置 (Kōmyō denki shōmei sōchi) - Device for clear light electrical illumination
• 光明照明ランプ (Kōmyō shōmei ranpu) - Lamp for bright lighting
• 光明照明電球 (Kōmyō shōmei denkyū) - Electric lamp for bright lighting
• 光明照明電灯 (Kōmyō shōmei dentō) - Lamp for clear lighting (used in specific contexts)

電灯

Romaji: dentou
Kana: でんとう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: electrical light

Meaning in English: electric light

Definition: A device that uses electricity to illuminate the area.

Example Sentences - (電灯) dentou

See below some example sentences:

電灯をつけてください。

Den'tō o tsukete kudasai

Please turn on the light.

Please turn on the light.

• 電灯 (dentou) - electrical light
• を (wo) - object particle
• つけて (tsukete) - turn on
• ください (kudasai) - Please