Translation and Meaning of: シリーズ - shiri-zu

The word 「シリーズ」 (shiri-zu) is a term in Japanese that refers to a series, in the context of interconnected products, stories, or events. The origin of the word is based on the adaptation of the English term "series," which retains a similar meaning. This adaptation is an example of how the Japanese language appropriates words from other languages, especially English, to describe modern or specific concepts that did not previously have a representation in Japanese.

Etymologically, the term 「シリーズ」 (shiri-zu) was incorporated into the Japanese vocabulary during the 20th century, a period marked by Western influence on Japanese culture. The use of this expression has notably expanded in recent decades, especially in media contexts such as movies, television shows, books, and games, where products are released as part of a franchise or sequel. This means that when referring to a series, one can talk about a set of stories or products that share a thematic line or common characters.

Use and Applications

The expression 「シリーズ」 (shiri-zu) can be found in a variety of contexts, including:

Movies and animations, where a storyline continues across several parts.
Games, where game sequels are released, often with continuity of characters and plots.
Books, referring to literary sagas with multiple volumes.
Commercial products, such as collections of items with specific themes.

In addition, the term 「シリーズ」 (shiri-zu) allows its s to organize and categorize works and products, facilitating the understanding of their continuity and cohesion. With the popularization of franchises, the use of this term has grown, reflecting not only cultural development but also the prevailing trends in consumption and entertainment in contemporary society.