Translation and Meaning of: 開発 - kaihatsu

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 開発[かいはつ]. It appears in various contexts, from technology news to discussions about urban planning. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Furthermore, we will understand why this word is so relevant in certain sectors and how to memorize it efficiently.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you will find the precise definition of 開発, but here we go beyond the literal translation. Discover how this word connects with modern Japanese culture and why it is often associated with innovation and progress. Whether for study or pure curiosity, this guide will clarify your questions.

Meaning and translation of 開発

The word 開発 is generally translated as "development." It can be applied in various contexts, such as software development (ソフトウェア開発), urban development (都市開発), or even personal development. The term carries a connotation of evolution, growth, and improvement, being widely used in corporate and academic environments.

It is worth noting that 開発 is not limited to technological advancements. In Japan, it is also used in discussions about environmental preservation and social projects. This versatility makes the word one of the most frequent in newspapers and official reports, reflecting its importance in contemporary Japanese society.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The kanjis that form 開発 are 開 (to open) and 発 (to emit, to release). Together, they convey the idea of "opening something new" or "releasing potential," which explains their use in contexts of innovation. This combination is not random; it reflects a mindset of expansion and discovery, highly valued in Japan since the Meiji era, when the country underwent rapid industrial transformations.

It is interesting to note that 発 appears in other words related to beginning and progress, such as 発明 (invention) and 発見 (discovery). This pattern helps to understand why 開発 is so associated with advancements in different areas. If you are studying Japanese, noticing these connections can make it easier to memorize vocabulary.

How 開発 is used in everyday Japanese

In daily life, Japanese people use 開発 in conversations about new products, constructions, and even public policies. Technology companies, for example, often announce 新製品開発 (development of new products) as part of their strategies. The word also appears in debates about sustainability, such as in 地域開発 (regional development), showing its reach beyond the corporate world.

An interesting cultural detail is that 開発 doesn't always have a positive connotation. In discussions about deforestation or uncontrolled urban expansion, the term may appear in a critical light. This demonstrates how the Japanese language allows for nuances depending on the context, which is essential for those who want to communicate accurately.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 開発 (Kaihatsu) - Development
• 進展 (Shinten) - Progress, advances in processes
• 進歩 (Shinpo) - Advancement, improvement in skills or knowledge
• 進化 (Shinka) - Evolution, gradual change in quality or form
• 進行 (Shinkou) - Progress, course of a process or event
• 進める (Susumeru) - Promote, advance or progress
• 発展 (Hatten) - Development, large-scale expansion
• 創造 (Souzou) - Creativity, the act of creating something new
• 創出 (Soushutsu) - Production, generation of new ideas or products
• 創設 (Sousetsu) - Establishment, foundation of something new
• 創立 (Souritsu) - Foundation, act of establishing an institution or organization
• 創造性 (Souzousei) - Creativity, the ability to create in an innovative way
• 創意 (Soui) - Creative idea, innovative concept
• 創造力 (Souzouryoku) - Creative capacity, potential to create
• 創意力 (Souiryoku) - Ability to generate creative ideas
• 創造的 (Souzouteki) - Creative, which is innovative
• 創造的な (Souzouteki na) - Creative (adjective), something that has an innovative aspect
• 造る (Tsukuru) - Build, do something with a purpose
• 作る (Tsukuru) - Make, produce something, create manually
• 作成 (Sakusei) - Creation, preparation, or production of a document or product
• 作り出す (Tsukuridasu) - Generate, create something from scratch
• 製造 (Seizou) - Manufacturing, mass production of goods
• 生産 (Seisan) - Production, the act of creating goods or services
• 生み出す (Umidasu) - Generate, create something new or original
• 生み出し (Umidashi) - Producing, the act of giving rise to something
• 育成 (Ikusei) - Promotion, development, or care for growth
• 育てる (Sodateru) - To take care of, raise, or educate someone or something
• 育む (Hagukumu) - Nurture, care in a way that promotes development
• 育成する (Ikusei suru) - To develop, the act of fostering growth
• 養成 (Yousei) - Training, education or professional development
• 養う (Yasou) - To care, provide food or for growth
• 養育 (Yaiiku) - Education, the act of teaching and caring for someone.
• 養育する (Yaiiku suru) - To educate, someone's development and growth.
• 研究 (Kenkyuu) - Research, in-depth study of a topic
• 研究する (Kenkyuu suru) - Research, conduct scientific or technical investigation
• 研究開発 (Kenkyuu Kaihatsu) - Research and development, combined activities for innovations
• 技 (Gi) - Technology or technical skill