Translation and Meaning of: 検査 - kensa

The Japanese word 検査[けんさ] is a very useful term in daily life, especially 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 different contexts. Additionally, we will share some tips for memorizing it and interesting facts that can aid in learning. If you have already used the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you know how important it is to understand words like this clearly and practically.

Meaning and use of 検査

検査 means "inspection" or "examination" and is often used in medical, industrial, and even daily contexts. For example, when you go to the doctor in Japan, you might hear the word 検査 referring to blood tests, X-rays, or other diagnostic procedures. In factories, it appears on signs indicating quality inspection areas.

The term is also common in bureaucratic situations, such as in the verification of documents or in the inspection of products. Its use is so broad that it can be applied in various scenarios, from medicine to engineering. This shows how Japanese has specific words for concepts that, in other languages, may be more generic.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 検査 is formed by two kanji: 検 (ken), which means "to examine" or "to investigate," and 査 (sa), which can be translated as "to inspect" or "to analyze." Together, they reinforce the idea of a detailed inspection. This combination is common in technical and formal , which explains its presence in professional environments.

It is worth noting that both kanjis have Chinese origins, like most of the characters used in Japanese. The kanji 検, for example, appears in other words such as 検討 (kentou), which means "consideration" or "analysis." On the other hand, 査 is found in like 審査 (shinsa), which refers to an "evaluation" or "judgment." This relationship between the kanjis helps to better understand the meaning of 検査.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to memorize 検査 is to associate it with everyday situations. If you've ever had a medical exam, think of the word as something related to "checking" or "verification." Another tip is to create flashcards with phrases like 検査を受ける (kensa o ukeru), which means "to take an exam." Repeating these expressions out loud also helps to reinforce the term.

Curiously, 検査 is a word that gained even more relevance during the COVID-19 pandemic, as tests to detect the virus were called PCR検査. This recent usage shows how Japanese incorporates technical in emergency situations without losing clarity. If you follow news from Japan, you've probably come across this expression.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 検査 (kensai) - Examination or inspection generally related to functionality or quality tests.
• チェック (chekku) - Verification or confirmation; it is most commonly used in informal contexts.
• 検診 (kenshin) - Health check; usually a regular medical check-up.
• 診察 (shinsatsu) - Medical consultation; assessment of a doctor regarding the patient's condition.
• 診断 (shindan) - Diagnosis; conclusion about the health condition based on the consultation and exams.