Translation and Meaning of: 洪水 - kouzui

The Japanese word 洪水[こうずい] is a term that sparks curiosity both for its literal meaning and for its use in everyday Japan. In this article, we will explore what this expression represents, its origin, how it is written, and in what contexts it appears. If you are studying Japanese or simply have an interest in the culture of the country, understanding words like this can enrich your vocabulary and your understanding of how the Japanese perceive natural phenomena and everyday situations.

In addition to explaining the meaning of 洪水, we will discuss its pronunciation, the kanjis that compose it, and how it is perceived in the Japanese language. If you have used the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you know that it is a great tool for learning like this clearly and practically. Here, we go beyond simple translation, diving into details that make learning more interesting.

Meaning and writing of 洪水

The word 洪水[こうずい] means "flood" or "inundation". It is composed of two kanjis: 洪 (which conveys the idea of something vast or overflowing) and 水 (which means "water"). Together, these characters create a clear image of what the word represents: a large volume of water that exceeds its natural boundaries, causing overflow.

It is worth noting that 洪水 does not refer to any type of heavy rain, but specifically to situations where water invades areas that are normally dry. In Japan, where natural disasters such as typhoons are common, this word often appears in news and weather alerts. Its use is direct and objective, without metaphorical connotations in everyday life.

Origin and Cultural Use

The origin of 洪水 dates back to classical Chinese, like many Japanese words written in kanji. The term has been incorporated into Japanese for centuries, retaining its original meaning related to natural disasters. In the cultural context of Japan, where respect and fear of nature run deep, this word carries significant weight, especially in regions prone to flooding.

Unlike some expressions that gain figurative meanings over time, 洪水 generally retains its literal meaning. However, in very specific contexts, it can be used metaphorically to describe a "surge" of something, such as information or emotions. Even so, this usage is less common and greatly depends on the context in which the word appears.

Tips for memorization and pronunciation

An effective way to memorize 洪水 is to associate its kanji with the meaning. As mentioned, 水 is "water," while 洪 can be ed by the radical of "three points of water" (氵), present in many characters related to liquids. Regarding pronunciation, "こうずい" follows the typical pattern of on'yomi reading (of Chinese origin), common in words composed of two kanji.

To practice, try using 洪水 in simple sentences or listen to how it appears in weather reports. Observing words in real contexts always helps with retention. And if you want to test your knowledge, the Suki Nihongo dictionary offers practical examples that show how this term is used in the daily lives of the Japanese.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 水害 (Suigai) - Damage caused by water, especially flooding.
• 洪水災害 (Kōzuisai-gai) - Damage or disaster caused by flooding.
• 洪水被害 (Kōzui higa) - Damage or losses resulting from flooding.
• 大水 (Ōmizu) - Large amount of water, usually referring to flooding.
• 大洪水 (Ōkōzui) - Great flood, reflecting a severe flooding.
• 大水害 (Ōsuigai) - Severe damage caused by significant flooding.
• 大洪水災害 (Ōkōzuisai-gai) - Severe disaster caused by heavy flooding.
• 大洪水被害 (Ōkōzui higa) - Significant damages resulting from major floods.