Translation and Meaning of: 居住 - kyojyuu

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 居住[きょじゅう]. It appears in everyday contexts, official documents, and even in discussions about housing in Japan. In this article, we will explore its meaning, how it is used in practice, and some curiosities that may help you memorize it. Additionally, we will see how this word relates to the cultural and social aspects of the country.

居住 is a term that carries a more formal and bureaucratic sense, but it also appears in everyday conversations. Whether to talk about where someone lives or to discuss public policies, understanding its use can be essential for those who want to delve deeper into the language. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and precise explanations, so let's get straight to the point!

Meaning and use of 居住

居住[きょじゅう] means "residence" or "housing" and is used to refer to the act of living in a specific place. Unlike words like 住む[すむ], which is more colloquial, 居住 has a more formal tone. You will find it in immigration documents, rental contracts, and even in news about demographics.

A common example is the term 居住地[きょじゅうち], which means "place of residence". It appears in official forms and registrations. Another frequent usage is in expressions like 居住権[きょじゅうけん], which refers to "right of residence". If you plan to live in Japan, it is very likely that you will see this word multiple times.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 居住 is composed of two kanji: 居 (きょ), which means "to be present" or "to exist in a place," and 住 (じゅう), which represents "to live" or "to inhabit." Together, they reinforce the idea of residing in a place in a stable manner. This combination is not random – it reflects the Japanese concept of establishing oneself in a space.

It is worth noting that the kanji 住 also appears in other related words, such as 住所[じゅうしょ] (address) and 住宅[じゅうたく] (residence, house). This connection helps to understand why 居住 has a more formal and institutional meaning. If you are already familiar with these , it becomes easier to associate and memorize the meaning of 居住.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

A simple way to 居住 is to think of the kanji 住, which already appears in words like 住む (to live). Associating this root with a formal context can help reinforce the term. Another tip is to create flashcards with practical examples, such as "居住地を変更する" (to change one's place of residence), which is a useful phrase for those dealing with bureaucracy in Japan.

Culturally, Japan has a strong connection to the idea of permanent residence, especially due to the family registration system (koseki). The word 居住 appears frequently in this context, as the official address is tied to civil rights and responsibilities. Knowing this not only helps with vocabulary but also with understanding how Japanese society functions.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 居所 (Kyosyo) - Location or place where someone resides.
• 住まい (Sumai) - Residence in a broader sense, encoming both housing and the concept of home.
• 住居 (Jūkyo) - Residence or dwelling; a more formal term to describe someone's housing.
• 住所 (Jūsho) - Address; refers to the specific postal location of a residence.
• 住宅 (Jūtaku) - Housing or residence; it generally refers to residential buildings such as houses or apartments.