Translation and Meaning of: 栽培 - saibai

The Japanese word 栽培 [さいばい] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday life, along with curiosities that can aid in memorization. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese talk about agriculture or plant cultivation, this is the right word to better understand this context.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 栽培 is defined as "cultivation" or "plant cultivation," but its use goes beyond the literal sense. It appears in discussions about sustainable agriculture, gardening, and even in metaphorical contexts. Let's see how this word fits into the Japanese language and why it's worth getting to know it in depth.

Meaning and use of 栽培 in Japanese

The term 栽培 refers to the act of cultivating plants, whether on a large scale, like in agriculture, or in small spaces, like home gardens. Unlike words like 農業 (agriculture), which have a broader meaning, 栽培 is more specific, focusing on the process of growing and caring for plants. For example, when a Japanese person talks about growing tomatoes at home, it's common to use 栽培 instead of more generic .

Additionally, 栽培 can appear in less literal contexts. In discussions about education or personal development, for example, it is used metaphorically to describe the "cultivation" of skills or knowledge. This flexibility makes the word useful in both everyday conversations and more formal texts.

Origin and composition of the kanjis of 栽培

The kanji 栽培 is made up of two characters: 栽 and 培. The first, 栽, is related to planting and growth, while 培 means "to nurture" or "to develop." Together, they reinforce the idea of caring for and making something grow, whether it be a plant, an idea, or a skill. This combination is not random – it reflects the importance that Japan places on cultivation, both in agriculture and in other aspects of life.

It's worth noting that 栽培 is not an old or rare word. It frequently appears in gardening manuals, news about agriculture, and even in anime that deal with rural themes. If you have watched "Silver Spoon," for example, you may have come across this term in scenes that depict the daily life of an agricultural school.

Tips for memorizing and using 栽培 correctly

An effective way to the meaning of 栽培 is to associate it with practical activities. If you have ever planted something, think of that experience while studying the word. Another tip is to create simple sentences, such as "野菜を栽培する" (to cultivate vegetables), to reinforce its use in everyday life. Repeating it out loud also helps, as the pronunciation "さいばい" is relatively easy for Portuguese speakers.

Furthermore, pay attention to the context in which 栽培 appears. If you are reading a text about ecology or sustainability, it is likely to be used in the literal sense. However, in discussions about learning or development, it may have a more abstract meaning. Noticing these differences will help you use the word more naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 栽培 (saibai) - Cultivation, especially of plants under controlled conditions.
• 作付け (sakuzuke) - Cultivation of crops, especially referring to the act of sowing.
• 耕作 (kousaku) - Plowing and cultivating the land for agricultural production.
• 育成 (ikusei) - Growth and development of plants or animals, emphasizing care and improvement.
• 栽育 (zaiiku) - Cultivation and development practices, often in the context of species improvement.
• 栽培する (saibai suru) - Act of cultivating plants.
• 作物を育てる (sakumotsu o sodateru) - Taking care of and cultivating plants intended for harvesting.
• 耕す (tagayasu) - Plowing the land to prepare it for cultivation.
• 耕作する (kousaku suru) - Act of cultivating and managing agricultural land.
• 育成する (ikusei suru) - The act of caring for and fostering the growth of living beings, such as plants or animals.