縮小する في 30 ثانية
- Shrink, reduce in size or scale.
- Used for physical objects and abstract concepts like businesses.
- Opposite of enlarge or expand.
- Common in business, tech, and everyday contexts.
The Japanese verb 縮小する (shukushou suru) translates to 'to reduce,' 'to shrink,' or 'to scale down.' It's a versatile verb used in various contexts, from physical objects becoming smaller to the decrease in size or scope of abstract concepts like businesses, plans, or even font sizes. You'll encounter this word when discussing anything that is made smaller in size, quantity, or extent.
For example, a company might 縮小する its operations if it's facing financial difficulties, meaning it will reduce its scale of business. A photograph or a digital image can also be 縮小する to fit a specific space or to save storage. In a more literal sense, a material might 縮小する when exposed to heat or cold. Understanding 縮小する is key to grasping how changes in size and scale are communicated in Japanese.
- Physical Shrinking
- When materials or objects become smaller, for instance, due to temperature changes or manufacturing processes. A common example is fabric shrinking after washing.
- Business/Organizational Reduction
- Used when a company or organization decides to decrease its size, operations, or workforce. This often happens during economic downturns or strategic restructuring.
- Digital Scaling
- Refers to making digital elements like images, text, or windows smaller on a screen or in a document. Web developers often need to 縮小する elements for responsive design.
このズボンは洗濯したら縮小するかもしれないので、一つ大きいサイズを買いました。
(Kono zubon wa sentaku shitara shukushou suru kamo shirenai node, hitotsu ookii saizu o kaimashita.)
These pants might shrink after washing, so I bought one size larger.
経済状況が悪化し、多くの企業が事業を縮小することを余儀なくされています。
(Keizai joukyou ga akka shi, ooku no kigyou ga jigyou o shukushou suru koto o yogi naku sarete imasu.)
The economic situation has worsened, forcing many companies to reduce their operations.
In graphic design, you might need to 縮小する an image to fit a layout. In a news report, you might hear about a factory 縮小する its production lines. The concept of reduction is fundamental, and 縮小する is the primary way to express it in Japanese across various domains.
- Plan/Scope Reduction
- Can also apply to plans, projects, or ambitions being scaled back due to limitations like budget, time, or resources.
この地図は、持ち運びに便利なように縮小する必要があります。
(Kono chizu wa, mochi hakobi ni ben na you ni shukushou suru hitsuyou ga arimasu.)
This map needs to be reduced for convenient carrying.
The nuance of 縮小する is about a deliberate act of making something smaller, or an inevitable process where something naturally becomes smaller. It's a core verb for discussing decrease and reduction in many everyday and professional situations.
縮小する (shukushou suru) is a transitive verb, meaning it often takes an object (what is being reduced). It can also be used intransitively, referring to something shrinking on its own. Let's explore its usage with various sentence structures.
Transitive Usage (Object + を + 縮小する)
This is the most common way to use 縮小する, where you explicitly state what is being reduced. The particle を (o) marks the direct object.
会社はコスト削減のため、支店を縮小することにした。
(Kaisha wa kosuto sakugen no tame, shiten o shukushou suru koto ni shita.)
The company decided to reduce its branches to cut costs.
このソフトウェアを使えば、画像を簡単に縮小することができます。
(Kono sofutowea o tsukaeba, gazou o kantan ni shukushou suru koto ga dekimasu.)
With this software, you can easily shrink images.
Intransitive Usage (Subject + が/は + 縮小する)
Here, the subject itself is what is shrinking. The particle が (ga) or は (wa) marks the subject.
長期間使用しなかったため、工場が縮小した。
(Chou kikan shiyou shinakatta tame, koujou ga shukushou shita.)
The factory shrank because it wasn't used for a long time.
この布地は一度洗うと縮小する性質があります。
(Kono nuno ji wa ichido arau to shukushou suru seishitsu ga arimasu.)
This fabric has a tendency to shrink once washed.
With Potential Form (縮小できる - shukushou dekiru)
Indicates the ability or possibility to shrink something.
予算が限られているため、プロジェクトの規模を縮小できるかどうか検討している。
(Yosan ga kagirarete iru tame, purojekuto no kibo o shukushou dekiru ka dou ka kentou shite iru.)
Because the budget is limited, we are considering whether we can scale down the project's scope.
With Passive Form (縮小される - shukushou sareru)
Used when something is shrunk by an external force or agent.
この地域では、人口が徐々に縮小されている。
(Kono chiiki de wa, jinkou ga jojoni shukushou sarete iru.)
In this region, the population is gradually being reduced.
With Causative Form (縮小させる - shukushou saseru)
Means to cause something to shrink or to make something smaller.
経営陣は、業績不振を理由に、事業規模を縮小させることを決定した。
(Keieijin wa, gyouseki fushin o riyuu ni, jigyou kibo o shukushou saseru koto o kettei shita.)
The management decided to make the business scale smaller due to poor performance.
Mastering these sentence patterns will allow you to express the concept of reduction accurately in various Japanese communication scenarios.
You'll hear 縮小する (shukushou suru) in a variety of everyday and formal situations. Its usage spans across different domains, reflecting its fundamental meaning of reduction.
Business and Economics News
News reports frequently discuss companies 縮小する their operations due to economic downturns, restructuring, or mergers. You might hear phrases like 「企業が事業を縮小する」 (kigyou ga jigyou o shukushou suru - a company reduces its business) or 「工場が人員を縮小する」 (koujou ga jinin o shukushou suru - a factory reduces its staff).
「最近の経済状況により、多くの小売店が店舗面積を縮小する傾向にあります。」
(“Saikin no keizai joukyou ni yori, ooku no kouriten ga tenpo menseki o shukushou suru keikou ni arimasu.”)
“Due to the recent economic situation, many retail stores are tending to reduce their store space.”
Technology and Design
In tech contexts, 縮小する is used when talking about resizing images, documents, or user interfaces. You might hear instructions like 「この画像を縮小してください」 (kono gazou o shukushou shite kudasai - please shrink this image) or discussions about responsive web design where elements 縮小する to fit different screen sizes.
「ウェブサイトのデザインでは、画面サイズに応じて要素が自動的に縮小するようになっています。」
(“Webusaito no dezain de wa, gamen saizu ni oujite youso ga jidou teki ni shukushou suru you ni natte imasu.”)
“In website design, elements are set to automatically scale down according to screen size.”
Manufacturing and Materials
When discussing the properties of materials or manufacturing processes, 縮小する is used to describe shrinkage. For instance, 「このプラスチックは熱で縮小する」 (kono purasuchikku wa netsu de shukushou suru - this plastic shrinks with heat) or 「型から外す際に製品が縮小する」 (kata kara hazusu sai ni seihin ga shukushou suru - the product shrinks when removed from the mold).
「綿素材の衣類は、初めて洗濯すると必ず縮小するので注意が必要です。」
(“Men sozai no irui wa, hajimete sentaku suru to kanarazu shukushou suru node chuui ga hitsuyou desu.”)
“Cotton clothing is prone to shrink the first time it is washed, so caution is necessary.”
Everyday Conversations
In daily life, you might hear it related to personal finances or plans. For example, 「予算が厳しいので、旅行の計画を縮小することにした」 (yosan ga kibishii node, ryokou no keikaku o shukushou suru koto ni shita - My budget is tight, so I decided to scale back the travel plans).
Essentially, any situation where something is becoming smaller, whether by intent or by nature, is a place where you might encounter 縮小する.
While 縮小する (shukushou suru) is a straightforward verb, learners can sometimes make mistakes, often related to choosing the wrong verb or misapplying the transitive/intransitive distinction.
1. Confusing with Similar Verbs
The most common mistake is confusing 縮小する with other verbs that imply reduction or decrease, but with different nuances.
- Using 減らす (herasu - to decrease, to reduce in number/quantity) instead of 縮小する: While both mean 'to reduce,' 減らす is more about reducing the number of items or the amount of something. 縮小する is specifically about reducing size or scale. For example, you would 減らす the number of employees, but you would 縮小する the company's operations or physical size.
- Using 狭める (semeru - to narrow, to make narrower) instead of 縮小する: 狭める is used for things like roads, openings, or viewpoints becoming narrower. 縮小する is about overall size reduction.
Incorrect: 会社は従業員を縮小した。
(Kaisha wa juugyouin o shukushou shita.)Correct: 会社は従業員を減らした。
(Kaisha wa juugyouin o herashita.)
2. Incorrect Particle Usage (Transitive vs. Intransitive)
As discussed, 縮小する can be used both transitively (reducing something) and intransitively (something shrinking). Misusing the particles can lead to confusion.
- Treating an intransitive case as transitive: Saying 「写真が縮小する」 (shashin ga shukushou suru - the photo shrinks) is correct. Saying 「写真を縮小する」 (shashin o shukushou suru) implies someone is actively shrinking the photo. Both are valid but used in different contexts. The mistake is when the context clearly implies something shrinking on its own, but the object particle を is used incorrectly.
- Treating a transitive case as intransitive: Saying 「事業を縮小する」 (jigyou o shukushou suru - to reduce business) is correct. Saying 「事業が縮小する」 (jigyou ga shukushou suru) implies the business is shrinking by itself, which might be true, but often the intention is to express a deliberate reduction.
Incorrect: 経済が悪化して、縮小する。
(Keizai ga akka shite, shukushou suru.) (Implies the economy itself is shrinking)Correct: 経済が悪化して、多くの会社が事業を縮小する。
(Keizai ga akka shite, ooku no kaisha ga jigyou o shukushou suru.) (Companies reduce their business)
3. Using the Wrong Tense or Aspect
Like any verb, 縮小する needs to be conjugated correctly. Beginners might struggle with applying past tense (縮小した - shukushou shita) or continuous aspect (縮小している - shukushou shite iru) appropriately.
Incorrect: 来年、会社は縮小する。
(Rainen, kaisha wa shukushou suru.) (Sounds like a general fact, not a future plan)Correct: 来年、会社は事業を縮小する予定です。
(Rainen, kaisha wa jigyou o shukushou suru yotei desu.) (Clear future plan)
By being aware of these common pitfalls, you can use 縮小する more accurately and effectively.
Understanding the nuances between 縮小する (shukushou suru) and similar words is crucial for precise communication in Japanese. Here's a comparison:
1. 減らす (herasu) vs. 縮小する (shukushou suru)
- 減らす (herasu)
-
Meaning: To decrease, to reduce (in number, quantity, amount, or intensity).
Focus: Quantity, number, amount, frequency, volume.
Usage: Applies broadly to things that can be counted or measured in discrete units or amounts. It's often used for things like reducing staff, costs, noise, or mistakes.
Example: 「従業員を減らす」 (juugyouin o herasu - to reduce employees), 「会議の時間を減らす」 (kaigi no jikan o herasu - to reduce meeting time).
- 縮小する (shukushou suru)
-
Meaning: To shrink, to reduce (in size, scale, scope, or extent).
Focus: Physical dimensions, overall size, scope of operations, scale of a project.
Usage: Primarily used for physical objects becoming smaller, or for abstract concepts like businesses, plans, or areas of influence decreasing in size or scope.
Example: 「事業を縮小する」 (jigyou o shukushou suru - to reduce business operations/scale), 「写真を縮小する」 (shashin o shukushou suru - to shrink a photo).
Key Difference: 減らす is about quantity; 縮小する is about size or scale.
2. 狭める (semeru) vs. 縮小する (shukushou suru)
- 狭める (semeru)
-
Meaning: To narrow, to make narrower, to constrict, to limit.
Focus: Width, space, range, or scope in a specific dimension or aspect.
Usage: Used for physical spaces like roads, alleys, or openings becoming narrower. It can also be used metaphorically for limiting viewpoints or options.
Example: 「道幅を狭める」 (michi-haba o semeru - to narrow the width of a road), 「視野を狭める」 (shiya o semeru - to narrow one's vision/perspective).
- 縮小する (shukushou suru)
-
Meaning: To shrink, to reduce (in size, scale, scope, or extent).
Focus: Overall size, scale, scope.
Usage: Refers to a general reduction in size or scale, not just a narrowing of one dimension.
Example: 「建物の規模を縮小する」 (tatemono no kibo o shukushou suru - to reduce the scale of a building).
Key Difference: 狭める is about becoming narrower; 縮小する is about becoming smaller in overall size or scale.
3. 小型化する (kogatakasuru)
- 小型化する (kogatakasuru)
-
Meaning: To make smaller, to miniaturize.
Focus: The process of intentionally making something smaller, often in the context of technology or product design.
Usage: Implies a deliberate effort to create a smaller version of something, often with the goal of portability or efficiency.
Example: 「携帯電話の小型化が進んでいる」 (keitaidenwa no kogatakasuru ga susunde iru - the miniaturization of mobile phones is progressing).
- 縮小する (shukushou suru)
-
Meaning: To shrink, to reduce.
Focus: The result of becoming smaller, or the act of reducing size/scale.
Usage: Can refer to intentional reduction, but also to natural shrinking or reduction due to external factors.
Example: 「この材料は熱で縮小する」 (kono zairyou wa netsu de shukushou suru - this material shrinks with heat).
Key Difference: 小型化する is about the process of intentional miniaturization; 縮小する is about the general act or result of becoming smaller.
4. 縮む (chijimu) vs. 縮小する (shukushou suru)
- 縮む (chijimu)
-
Meaning: To shrink, to contract (intransitive).
Focus: Natural shrinking or contraction, often due to physical conditions like cold, moisture, or aging.
Usage: Primarily used for physical objects that shrink on their own. It's a more informal and common word for everyday shrinking.
Example: 「セーターが縮んだ」 (seetaa ga chijinda - the sweater shrunk), 「筋肉が縮む」 (kinniku ga chijimu - muscles contract).
- 縮小する (shukushou suru)
-
Meaning: To shrink, to reduce (can be transitive or intransitive).
Focus: Can be natural shrinking but also intentional reduction, especially in scale or scope.
Usage: More formal than 縮む. Often used in business, technology, and formal writing to describe shrinking or scaling down.
Example: 「事業規模を縮小する」 (jigyou kibo o shukushou suru - to reduce business scale).
Key Difference: 縮む is informal and intransitive for natural shrinking; 縮小する is more formal and can be transitive or intransitive, covering intentional reduction and scaling down.
How Formal Is It?
حقيقة ممتعة
The kanji 縮 (shuku) is composed of 糸 (ito - thread/silk) and 宿 (shuku - lodge/stay). This combination might suggest threads gathering or being pulled together, leading to a shorter length, or perhaps something that lodges and causes contraction. The '宿' part might relate to something settling and thus becoming smaller.
دليل النطق
- Pronouncing the 'shi' and 'u' in 'shuku' as fully voiced sounds.
- Not elongating the 'o' sound in 'shou'.
- Over-emphasizing the 'fu' in 'suru', making it sound too strong.
- Confusing the particle を (o) with other sounds.
- Incorrectly stressing the 'suru' part.
مستوى الصعوبة
The kanji 縮 (shuku) and 小 (shou) are moderately common. The verb する (suru) is fundamental. Context is key to understanding nuances, especially differentiating it from similar verbs like 減らす (herasu) or 縮む (chijimu). It appears frequently in news and business contexts, making reading comprehension at B1 and above achievable.
Using 縮小する correctly requires understanding its transitive/intransitive nature and choosing appropriate particles (を vs. が/は). Distinguishing it from synonyms like 減らす is also important for accurate written expression. At B1 level, learners can start using it effectively in simple sentences.
Pronunciation is relatively straightforward, but differentiating it from similar-sounding words or ensuring correct usage in spontaneous speech can be challenging. Practicing with different sentence structures is key.
Recognizing 縮小する in spoken Japanese requires familiarity with its pronunciation and common contexts. It's often heard in formal settings like news broadcasts or business meetings, but also in casual conversations about size changes.
ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك
المتطلبات الأساسية
تعلّم لاحقاً
متقدم
قواعد يجب معرفتها
Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs
The verb 縮小する can be transitive (e.g., 画像を縮小する - to shrink an image, where 'image' is the object marked by を) or intransitive (e.g., 布が縮小する - the fabric shrinks, where 'fabric' is the subject marked by が). Understanding this distinction is crucial for correct usage.
Verb Conjugation (Te-form, Past Tense, Potential, Passive, Causative)
Like other する-verbs, 縮小する conjugates regularly. For example: 縮小して (te-form), 縮小した (past), 縮小できる (potential), 縮小される (passive), 縮小させる (causative).
Using Particles (を, が, は)
When 縮小する is transitive, the object being shrunk is marked by を. When it's intransitive, the thing that is shrinking is marked by が or は. For example: 会社が事業を縮小する (Kaisha ga jigyou o shukushou suru - The company shrinks its business) vs. 工場が縮小した (Koujou ga shukushou shita - The factory shrunk).
Nominalization with 〜こと
The verb phrase can be nominalized using 〜こと. For instance, 事業を縮小すること (jigyou o shukushou suru koto - the act of shrinking business operations) can be used as a noun phrase.
Using 〜ようにする (to try to do)
This pattern expresses an effort to do something. For example, コストを縮小するように努めています (Kosuto o shukushou suru you ni tsutomete imasu - We are striving to reduce costs).
أمثلة حسب المستوى
この服は洗うと縮小しますか？
Will these clothes shrink when washed?
Simple question about a potential action.
地図を縮小して見せてください。
Please show the map reduced.
Request using the verb in dictionary form + 〜て見せる.
写真が縮小しました。
The photo has shrunk.
Past tense of the intransitive verb.
お店が縮小しています。
The shop is shrinking.
Continuous aspect indicating an ongoing process.
このボタンを縮小します。
I will shrink this button.
Simple future action, transitive use.
会社が縮小しました。
The company shrunk.
Past tense, intransitive.
この図を縮小してください。
Please reduce this diagram.
Polite request using 〜てください.
昔の家は縮小しました。
The old house shrunk.
Past tense, intransitive.
このズボンは洗濯で縮小しやすい。
These pants tend to shrink in the wash.
Using 〜やすい (easy to do/tend to).
予算が少ないので、計画を縮小しなければならない。
Because the budget is small, we must reduce the plan.
Using 〜なければならない (must do).
この印刷物は縮小して保存してください。
Please reduce and save this printed material.
Using 〜て保存する (reduce and save).
都市部では、土地が縮小している。
In urban areas, land is shrinking.
Continuous aspect, intransitive.
事業を縮小するために、人員を削減しました。
We reduced staff to shrink our business operations.
Using 〜ために (in order to).
この記事は元のサイズに縮小できますか？
Can this article be reduced to its original size?
Potential form 〜できますか (can you do?).
広告のサイズを縮小して、紙を節約しましょう。
Let's reduce the ad size and save paper.
Volitional form 〜ましょう (let's do).
この生地は水に濡れると縮小する。
This fabric shrinks when wet.
Simple statement of fact using the dictionary form.
経済状況の悪化により、多くの企業が事業規模を縮小する決断を下しました。
Due to the worsening economic situation, many companies made the decision to reduce their business scale.
Using noun phrase + 〜により (due to) and 〜決断を下す (make a decision).
このソフトウェアは、高画質の画像を劣化させずに縮小することが可能です。
This software can reduce high-quality images without degrading them.
Using 〜ずに (without doing) and 〜ことが可能 (it is possible to).
限られたスペースのため、展示物の配置を縮小せざるを得ませんでした。
Due to limited space, we had no choice but to reduce the arrangement of exhibits.
Using 〜せざるを得ない (have no choice but to do).
政府は、環境保護のため、産業活動の規模を段階的に縮小していく方針を発表した。
The government announced a policy to gradually reduce the scale of industrial activities for environmental protection.
Using 〜ていく (continue to do) and 〜方針を発表する (announce a policy).
この建物の設計では、将来的な人口減少を見越して、各フロアの面積を縮小する計画が含まれています。
In the design of this building, a plan to reduce the area of each floor is included, anticipating future population decrease.
Using 〜を見越して (anticipating) and 〜計画が含まれる (a plan is included).
古い印刷技術では、細かい文字を縮小すると潰れてしまうことがよくあった。
With old printing technology, fine text would often become illegible when reduced.
Using 〜と〜ことがある (it often happens that when ~).
この織物は、熱を加えると予想以上に縮小するため、製品化には注意が必要です。
This fabric shrinks more than expected when heat is applied, so care is needed in product manufacturing.
Using 〜ため (because) and 〜注意が必要 (caution is necessary).
デジタル化の波により、多くの伝統的な印刷会社は事業を縮小せざるを得なくなっています。
Due to the wave of digitalization, many traditional printing companies are forced to reduce their business.
Using 〜により (due to) and 〜ざるを得なくなっています (are becoming forced to do).
グローバル経済の不確実性から、多くの多国籍企業が将来の事業展開を縮小する戦略を検討している。
Due to uncertainty in the global economy, many multinational corporations are considering strategies to scale down future business expansion.
Using 〜から (due to) and 〜戦略を検討する (consider strategies).
最新の画像処理技術は、元の解像度を維持したまま、驚くほど高精細な画像を縮小することを可能にする。
The latest image processing technology makes it possible to shrink surprisingly high-definition images while maintaining the original resolution.
Using 〜まま (while doing) and 〜することを可能にする (makes it possible to do).
研究開発部門の予算削減は、長期的な視点で見れば、企業のイノベーション能力を縮小させるリスクを伴う。
Reducing the budget for the research and development department carries the risk of shrinking the company's innovation capacity in the long run.
Using 〜能力を縮小させる (causes innovation capacity to shrink) and 〜リスクを伴う (involves risk).
持続可能な都市開発のため、中心部の商業エリアを縮小し、緑地空間を拡大するという計画が進められている。
For sustainable urban development, a plan is being advanced to reduce the central commercial area and expand green spaces.
Using 〜という計画が進められている (a plan to ~ is being advanced).
SNSの普及により、従来のメディア企業は広告収入源を縮小せざるを得ず、新たな収益モデルの模索を迫られている。
Due to the spread of social media, traditional media companies are forced to reduce their advertising revenue sources and are compelled to seek new revenue models.
Using 〜せざるを得ず (being forced to do) and 〜を迫られている (are being compelled to do).
この特殊な合金は、冷却時に分子構造が再配列し、顕著な割合で縮小する特性を持っている。
This special alloy has the characteristic of its molecular structure rearranging upon cooling, causing it to shrink by a notable percentage.
Using 〜特性を持っている (possesses the characteristic of) and 〜割合で (by a percentage).
教育機関は、オンライン学習プラットフォームの導入により、物理的なキャンパスの規模を縮小する可能性を検討している。
Educational institutions are considering the possibility of reducing the scale of their physical campuses by introducing online learning platforms.
Using 〜可能性を検討している (considering the possibility of).
一部の製造業では、自動化の推進と人件費抑制のため、生産ラインの規模を戦略的に縮小する動きが見られる。
In some manufacturing industries, a trend of strategically reducing the scale of production lines is observed, driven by automation promotion and labor cost suppression.
Using 〜ため (for the purpose of) and 〜動きが見られる (a trend is observed).
デジタルアーカイブの推進は、物理的な保管スペースを大幅に縮小することを可能にする一方で、情報アクセスの均等化という新たな課題も提起している。
The promotion of digital archives makes it possible to significantly reduce physical storage space, but on the other hand, it also raises new challenges regarding equitable information access.
Using 〜一方で (on the other hand) and 〜課題も提起している (also raises challenges).
パンデミックの影響で、多くのイベント主催者は、参加者数の上限を設定することで、イベントの規模を縮小せざるを得なかった。
Due to the impact of the pandemic, many event organizers were forced to reduce the scale of their events by setting limits on the number of attendees.
Using 〜ことで (by doing) and 〜ざるを得なかった (was forced to do).
持続可能性への関心の高まりから、消費財メーカーは製品の包装材を縮小し、リサイクル可能な素材への転換を進めている。
Driven by increasing concern for sustainability, consumer goods manufacturers are reducing product packaging and advancing the transition to recyclable materials.
Using 〜への関心の高まりから (due to increasing concern for) and 〜への転換を進めている (advancing the transition to).
都市計画においては、過剰な開発による環境負荷を軽減するため、市街地の拡大を抑制し、既存エリアの機能再編による効率化を図ることで、実質的な都市規模を縮小するアプローチが検討されている。
In urban planning, to mitigate the environmental burden from excessive development, an approach is being considered to reduce the actual urban scale by suppressing the expansion of city areas and seeking efficiency through functional reorganization of existing zones.
Using 〜ため (in order to), 〜抑制し (suppress and), 〜を図ることで (by seeking), and 〜アプローチが検討されている (an approach is being considered).
AI技術の進化は、一部の職種において人間の労働力を代替する可能性を示唆しており、将来的な労働市場の構造を縮小させるという懸念も生じている。
The evolution of AI technology suggests the possibility of replacing human labor in some job categories, also giving rise to concerns that it will shrink the structure of the future labor market.
Using 〜という懸念も生じている (concerns that ~ are also arising) and 〜構造を縮小させる (shrink the structure).
この芸術作品は、鑑賞者の視覚体験を意図的に縮小させることで、内省を促し、作品の持つメッセージ性を強調しようとしている。
This artwork attempts to emphasize its message by intentionally reducing the viewer's visual experience, thereby encouraging introspection.
Using 〜ことで (by doing) and 〜を促し (encouraging) and 〜を強調しようとしている (is attempting to emphasize).
過去の経済危機を教訓とし、多くの金融機関はリスク資産の保有量を戦略的に縮小し、より保守的な運用方針へと転換を図っている。
Learning from past economic crises, many financial institutions are strategically reducing their holdings of risky assets and are attempting to shift towards more conservative operational policies.
Using 〜を教訓とし (learning from) and 〜へと転換を図っている (attempting to shift towards).
気候変動による海面上昇への懸念から、沿岸部の開発計画を縮小し、高台への移住を促進する政策が一部地域で導入されている。
Due to concerns about sea-level rise caused by climate change, policies are being introduced in some regions to reduce coastal development plans and promote relocation to higher ground.
Using 〜への懸念から (due to concerns about) and 〜を促進する (promote).
グローバリゼーションの逆流とも言える保護主義の高まりは、国際的なサプライチェーンを縮小させ、各国経済の自律性を過度に強調する傾向を助長している。
The rise of protectionism, which can be seen as a counter-current to globalization, is causing international supply chains to shrink and fostering a tendency to excessively emphasize the autonomy of national economies.
Using 〜とも言える (can be said to be) and 〜傾向を助長している (is fostering a tendency).
AIによる自動化の進展は、人間の創造性や複雑な意思決定能力を必要とする分野においては、労働力の需要を縮小させるというよりは、むしろその質的変容を促す可能性が指摘されている。
The advancement of automation by AI suggests the possibility not so much of shrinking the demand for labor in fields requiring human creativity and complex decision-making abilities, but rather of promoting their qualitative transformation.
Using 〜というよりはむしろ (rather than) and 〜質的変容を促す (promote qualitative transformation).
現代社会における情報過多は、個人の認知リソースを著しく縮小させ、本質的な問題への深い考察を妨げる要因となっている。
Information overload in modern society significantly shrinks individuals' cognitive resources, becoming a factor that hinders deep contemplation of essential issues.
Using 〜著しく (significantly) and 〜要因となっている (is becoming a factor).
持続可能な社会システムを構築するためには、経済成長至上主義を脱却し、資源消費を抑制することで、地球全体のシステム規模を縮小していくという、パラダイムシフトが不可欠である。
To construct a sustainable social system, a paradigm shift is indispensable, involving breaking away from economic growth-centricism and reducing the overall scale of the global system by curbing resource consumption.
Using 〜至上主義を脱却し (breaking away from ~ism) and 〜というパラダイムシフトが不可欠である (a paradigm shift of ~ is indispensable).
テクノロジーの進化は、物理的な距離の制約をほぼ消失させ、グローバルなコミュニケーションの場を劇的に拡大したが、同時に、文化的な多様性を均質化し、地域固有のアイデンティティを縮小させるという副作用も指摘されている。
The evolution of technology has almost eliminated the constraints of physical distance, dramatically expanding the arena for global communication, but at the same time, it has also been pointed out that it has the side effect of homogenizing cultural diversity and shrinking unique regional identities.
Using 〜をほぼ消失させ (almost eliminate) and 〜という副作用も指摘されている (the side effect that ~ is also pointed out).
気候変動による生態系の脆弱化は、生物多様性を著しく縮小させ、地球上の生命維持システム全体に不可逆的な影響を及ぼす危険性を孕んでいる。
The vulnerability of ecosystems due to climate change is significantly shrinking biodiversity and carries the danger of exerting irreversible effects on the entire life support system of the Earth.
Using 〜脆弱化は (vulnerability) and 〜危険性を孕んでいる (carries the danger of).
一部の学術分野では、研究資金の枯渇と学術界の過当競争により、基礎研究の領域が縮小し、応用研究への偏重が顕著になっている。
In some academic fields, due to the depletion of research funding and excessive competition within academia, the domain of basic research is shrinking, and a strong bias towards applied research is becoming prominent.
Using 〜の枯渇と〜により (due to depletion of ~ and ~) and 〜への偏重が顕著になっている (a bias towards ~ is becoming prominent).
ポスト・トゥルースの時代においては、客観的な事実の重要性が相対的に縮小し、感情や個人的信念に基づく情報が社会的意思決定に大きな影響を与えるようになっている。
In the post-truth era, the importance of objective facts is relatively shrinking, and information based on emotions and personal beliefs is increasingly influencing societal decision-making.
Using 〜の重要性が相対的に縮小し (the importance of ~ is relatively shrinking) and 〜に大きな影響を与えるようになっている (is increasingly influencing).
تلازمات شائعة
العبارات الشائعة
— A reduced-size copy. This is often used when referring to photocopies or scans made smaller than the original.
この資料は縮小コピーして配布してください。 (Kono shiryou wa shukushou kopii shite haifu shite kudasai.) Please make a reduced-size copy of this document and distribute it.
— Printing at a reduced size. This refers to the act of printing documents or images at a smaller scale than their original size.
プリンターの設定で、縮小印刷を選んでください。 (Purintaa no settei de, shukushou insatsu o erande kudasai.) Please select reduced-size printing in the printer settings.
— A state of reduced equilibrium. This is a more technical term, possibly used in economics or physics, referring to a stable state achieved at a smaller scale or level.
経済学では、需要と供給が一致する縮小均衡点が存在することがある。 (Keizaigaku de wa, juyou to kyoukyuu ga itchi suru shukushou kinkou ten ga sonzai suru koto ga aru.) In economics, there can be a point of reduced equilibrium where demand and supply match.
— A shrinking trend or tendency. This phrase describes a pattern where something is consistently becoming smaller over time.
この地域の人口は、長期的な縮小傾向にある。 (Kono chiiki no jinkou wa, chouki teki na shukushou keikou ni aru.) The population in this region is in a long-term shrinking trend.
— Reproduction on a diminishing scale. This is an economic term referring to a situation where production levels decrease over time, leading to a smaller scale of reproduction.
不況下では、多くの企業が縮小再生産に陥る可能性がある。 (Fukyouka de wa, ooku no kigyou ga shukushou saiseisan ni ochiiru kanousei ga aru.) During an economic downturn, many companies may fall into reproduction on a diminishing scale.
— Shrink belt. This likely refers to a type of belt used in manufacturing or packaging that shrinks when heated, often used for sealing or packaging products.
この製品の包装には、熱で縮小ベルトが使われている。 (Kono seihin no housou ni wa, netsu de shukushou beruto ga tsukawarete iru.) A shrink belt is used for the packaging of this product, which shrinks with heat.
— A photocopier that can make reduced-size copies. This refers to a machine specifically designed or capable of reducing the size of documents during copying.
オフィスにある縮小コピー機で、資料を小さくコピーした。 (Ofisu ni aru shukushou kopii-ki de, shiryou o chiisaku kopii shita.) I made smaller copies of the documents using the reduced-size copier in the office.
— Shrink mode. This refers to a setting on a device or software that allows for size reduction, such as in a printer or a photo editing application.
このプリンターには、用紙を節約するための縮小モードがあります。 (Kono purintaa ni wa, youshi o setsuyaku suru tame no shukushou mo-do ga arimasu.) This printer has a shrink mode to save paper.
— A reduced equilibrium model. A theoretical framework used in fields like economics or engineering to describe a state of equilibrium achieved at a smaller scale.
経済学者は、インフレ抑制のための縮小均衡モデルを提案した。 (Keizaigakusha wa, infure yokusei no tame no shukushou kinkou moderu o teian shita.) Economists proposed a reduced equilibrium model for inflation control.
— Miniaturization technology. This refers to the technologies and techniques used to make devices or components smaller.
半導体産業では、縮小化技術の進歩が不可欠である。 (Handoutai sangyou de wa, shukushouka gijutsu no shinpo ga fuketsu de aru.) Advancement in miniaturization technology is essential in the semiconductor industry.
يُخلط عادةً مع
This verb means to decrease quantity or number, not size or scale. Use 減らす for reducing items or amounts, and 縮小する for reducing size or scope.
This is an informal, intransitive verb for natural shrinking. 縮小する is more formal and can be transitive or intransitive, often implying intentional reduction.
This is the direct antonym, meaning 'to enlarge' or 'to expand'. It's important not to confuse the two concepts.
تعبيرات اصطلاحية
— Literally 'the spread of fire shrinks'. This idiom refers to a situation where a problem or scandal is losing momentum and is becoming less prominent or dying down.
報道が少なくなったことで、事件の火の回りが縮小したように見える。 (Houdou ga sukunaku natta koto de, jiken no hi no mawari ga shukushou shita you ni mieru.) With less media coverage, the fire around the incident seems to have shrunk.
— To scale down one's business. This is a direct application of 縮小する in a commercial context, indicating a reduction in the size or scope of business operations.
高齢になったため、彼は徐々に商売を縮小することにした。 (Kourei ni natta tame, kare wa jojoni shoubai o shukushou suru koto ni shita.) As he got older, he decided to gradually scale down his business.
— Influence shrinks or diminishes. This idiom describes a decrease in the power or impact someone or something has.
新しいライバルの登場により、彼の政治的な影響力が縮小した。 (Atarashii raibaru no toujou ni yori, kare no seijiteki na eikyouryoku ga shukushou shita.) Due to the emergence of a new rival, his political influence has shrunk.
— To reduce the budget. This is a common phrase used in organizations and projects when financial resources need to be cut.
プロジェクトの遅延のため、予算を縮小する必要が生じた。 (Purojekuto no chien no tame, yosan o shukushou suru hitsuyou ga shoujita.) Due to project delays, the need to reduce the budget arose.
— To shrink territory. This idiom refers to a nation or entity losing land or area, often due to war, treaty, or internal issues.
敗戦により、その国の領土は大幅に縮小した。 (Haisen ni yori, sono kuni no ryoudo wa oohaba ni shukushou shita.) As a result of the defeat, the country's territory was significantly reduced.
— To reduce the scope of activities. This means to limit the range or extent of one's actions or operations.
健康上の理由から、彼は最近の活動範囲を縮小した。 (Kenkoujou no riyuu kara, kare wa saikin no katsudou han'i o shukushou shita.) For health reasons, he has reduced the scope of his recent activities.
— To reduce production capacity. This refers to decreasing the potential output of a factory or company.
市場の需要が低迷しているため、生産能力を縮小することを検討している。 (Shijou no juyou ga teimei shite iru tame, seisan nouryoku o shukushou suru koto o kentou shite iru.) As market demand is sluggish, we are considering reducing production capacity.
— To shrink the sphere of influence. This idiom describes a decrease in the area or domain over which someone or something has power or effect.
地政学的な変動により、大国の影響圏は徐々に縮小している。 (Chiseigakuteki na hendou ni yori, taikoku no eikyouken wa jojoni shukushou shite iru.) Due to geopolitical shifts, the sphere of influence of major powers is gradually shrinking.
— To narrow down the business domain. This refers to focusing on a smaller or more specific area of business operations.
コア事業に集中するため、一部の事業領域を縮小することになった。 (Koa jigyou ni shuuchuu suru tame, ichibu no jigyou ryouiki o shukushou suru koto ni natta.) To focus on core businesses, it was decided to narrow down some business domains.
— To reduce the printing area. This is used when adjusting the area on a page that will be printed, often to fit content within margins or to save ink.
この設定では、印刷範囲が意図せず縮小されている。 (Kono settei de wa, insatsu han'i ga ito sezu ni shukushou sarete iru.) In this setting, the printing area is unintentionally reduced.
سهل الخلط
Both verbs involve reduction.
減らす focuses on quantity, number, or amount (e.g., reducing staff, reducing costs). 縮小する focuses on size, scale, or scope (e.g., shrinking a business, shrinking an image). Example: You 減らす the number of employees, but you 縮小する the company's size.
コストを<strong>減らす</strong>ことは重要ですが、事業全体を<strong>縮小する</strong>ことは別の問題です。 (Kosuto o <strong>herasu</strong> koto wa juuyou desu ga, jigyou zentai o <strong>shukushou suru</strong> koto wa betsu no mondai desu.) It is important to <strong>reduce</strong> costs, but <strong>shrinking</strong> the entire business is a different matter.
Both mean 'to shrink'.
縮む is informal and typically intransitive, referring to natural shrinking (e.g., clothes shrinking in the wash). 縮小する is more formal, can be transitive or intransitive, and is often used for intentional reduction in size or scale (e.g., shrinking a business, shrinking a photo). Example: セーターが<strong>縮んだ</strong> (Sweater shrunk - informal, intransitive) vs. 写真を<strong>縮小する</strong> (Shrink a photo - formal, transitive).
洗濯でセーターが<strong>縮んだ</strong>のは残念ですが、会社の規模を<strong>縮小する</strong>のは経営判断です。 (Sentaku de seetaa ga <strong>chijinda</strong> no wa zannen desu ga, kaisha no kibo o <strong>shukushou suru</strong> no wa keiei handan desu.) It's a shame the sweater <strong>shrunk</strong> in the wash, but <strong>reducing</strong> the company's scale is a management decision.
It is the direct opposite concept.
縮小する means to shrink or reduce, while 拡大する means to enlarge or expand. They are antonyms and are often used in contrast. Example: 縮小する (reduce) vs. 拡大する (expand).
市場が<strong>縮小する</strong>一方で、技術は常に進歩して<strong>拡大する</strong>傾向にある。 (Shijou ga <strong>shukushou suru</strong> ippou de, gijutsu wa tsune ni shinpo shite <strong>kakudai suru</strong> keikou ni aru.) While the market tends <strong>to shrink</strong>, technology constantly progresses and tends <strong>to expand</strong>.
Both imply making something smaller or less.
狭める means to narrow, focusing on width or a specific dimension. 縮小する means to reduce overall size or scale. Example: 道幅を<strong>狭める</strong> (narrow the road's width) vs. 建物の規模を<strong>縮小する</strong> (reduce the building's scale).
この地域では、道路を<strong>狭める</strong>工事が行われていますが、全体的な都市開発は<strong>縮小する</strong>計画です。 (Kono chiiki de wa, douro o <strong>semeru</strong> kouji ga okonawarete imasu ga, zentaiteki na toshi kaihatsu wa <strong>shukushou suru</strong> keikaku desu.) In this area, road-<strong>narrowing</strong> construction is underway, but the overall urban development plan is to <strong>reduce</strong> the scale.
Both relate to making things smaller.
小型化する specifically means to miniaturize, implying an intentional process of making something smaller, often for technological advancement or portability. 縮小する is a more general term for shrinking or reducing size/scale, which can be intentional or unintentional. Example: スマートフォンの<strong>小型化</strong> (miniaturization of smartphones) vs. 洗濯による衣類の<strong>縮小</strong> (shrinking of clothes due to washing).
最新のカメラは驚くほどよく<strong>小型化</strong>されていますが、古いフィルムカメラは経年劣化でレンズが<strong>縮小する</strong>ことがあります。 (Saishin no kamera wa odoroku hodo yoku <strong>kogatakasarete imasu</strong> ga, furui firumu kamera wa keinen rekka de renzu ga <strong>shukushou suru</strong> koto ga arimasu.) Modern cameras are surprisingly well <strong>miniaturized</strong>, but the lenses of old film cameras can sometimes <strong>shrink</strong> due to aging.
أنماط الجُمل
Noun + は + Noun + を + 縮小する。
このソフトは、写真を<strong>縮小する</strong>のに役立ちます。 (Kono sofuto wa, shashin o <strong>shukushou suru</strong> no ni yakudachimasu.) This software is useful for <strong>shrinking</strong> photos.
Noun + は + Noun + が + 縮小する。
この生地は、水で洗うと<strong>縮小する</strong>。 (Kono nuno ji wa, mizu de arau to <strong>shukushou suru</strong>.) This fabric <strong>shrinks</strong> when washed with water.
Noun + は + Noun + を + 縮小する + ことを決定した。
会社は、コスト削減のため、支店を<strong>縮小することを決定した</strong>。 (Kaisha wa, kosuto sakugen no tame, shiten o <strong>shukushou suru koto o kettei shita</strong>.) The company <strong>decided to reduce</strong> its branches to cut costs.
Noun + は + Noun + を + 縮小する + 必要がある。
予算が限られているため、プロジェクトの規模を<strong>縮小する必要がある</strong>。 (Yosan ga kagirarete iru tame, purojekuto no kibo o <strong>shukushou suru hitsuyou ga aru</strong>.) Due to budget limitations, there is a <strong>need to reduce</strong> the scale of the project.
Noun + は + Noun + を + 縮小する + 傾向にある。
近年、多くの企業が事業を<strong>縮小する傾向にある</strong>。 (Kinnen, ooku no kigyou ga jigyou o <strong>shukushou suru keikou ni aru</strong>.) In recent years, many companies <strong>tend to reduce</strong> their business operations.
Noun + は + Noun + が + 縮小される。
この地域では、工場が老朽化により<strong>縮小される</strong>見込みだ。 (Kono chiiki de wa, koujou ga roukyuu ka ni yori <strong>shukushou sareru</strong> mikomi da.) In this region, the factory is expected <strong>to be reduced</strong> due to aging.
Noun + は + Noun + を + 縮小する + ことを余儀なくされた。
パンデミックの影響で、多くのイベントが<strong>縮小することを余儀なくされた</strong>。 (Pandemikku no eikyou de, ooku no ibento ga <strong>shukushou suru koto o yogi naku sareta</strong>.) Due to the pandemic's impact, many events <strong>were forced to reduce</strong> their scale.
Noun + は + Noun + を + 縮小させる + 傾向を助長する。
保護主義の高まりは、国際的なサプライチェーンを<strong>縮小させる傾向を助長している</strong>。 (Hogoshugi no takamari wa, kokusaiteki na sapuraichien o <strong>shukushou saseru keikou o jochou shite iru</strong>.) The rise of protectionism <strong>is fostering a tendency to cause</strong> international supply chains <strong>to shrink</strong>.
عائلة الكلمة
الأسماء
الأفعال
مرتبط
كيفية الاستخدام
Common
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Using 減らす (herasu) when referring to size or scale.
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Using 縮小する (shukushou suru) for size/scale reduction.
Learners often confuse 減らす (decrease quantity/number) with 縮小する (decrease size/scale). For example, one reduces costs using 減らす, but shrinks a business using 縮小する.
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Incorrectly using particles (e.g., using を when something is shrinking on its own).
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Using が/は for intransitive cases and を for transitive cases.
If the fabric shrinks, it's 布が縮小する (intransitive, subject). If you shrink a photo, it's 写真を縮小する (transitive, object). Misusing particles changes the meaning.
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Confusing 縮小する (shukushou suru) with 縮む (chijimu) in formal contexts.
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Using 縮小する in formal writing/speech and 縮む in informal contexts.
縮む is informal and intransitive (e.g., clothes shrinking). 縮小する is more formal and can be transitive or intransitive, often used for business or intentional reductions.
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Using 縮小する when the intended meaning is 'to narrow'.
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Using 狭める (semeru) for narrowing.
縮小する refers to overall size reduction, while 狭める specifically means to make narrower (e.g., a road). Don't confuse reducing overall scale with reducing width.
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Forgetting to conjugate the verb correctly.
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Conjugating 縮小する according to tense, aspect, and mood.
Like any verb, 縮小する needs to be conjugated properly (e.g., 縮小した for past tense, 縮小している for continuous aspect, 縮小できる for potential). Incorrect conjugation leads to grammatical errors.
نصائح
Distinguish from 減らす (herasu)
Remember that 縮小する is about size/scale, while 減らす is about quantity/number. Use 縮小する for shrinking a business or an image, and 減らす for reducing staff or costs.
Focus on Unvoiced Syllables
Pay attention to the unvoiced 'shuku' sound in 縮小する. The 'shi' and the following 'u' are often pronounced with less voicing, almost like a breathy 'shk'. This is common in natural Japanese speech.
Visual Association
Imagine a large object physically shrinking down to a tiny 'sho' (小 - small) size. This visual can help you remember the core meaning of 縮小する.
Transitive vs. Intransitive
Be mindful of the particle usage. Use を with the object when actively shrinking something (transitive), and が/は with the subject when something is shrinking on its own (intransitive).
Business and Tech Contexts
You'll frequently encounter 縮小する in news about business, economics, and technology. Listening to these contexts will reinforce its meaning and usage.
Know Your Antonym
The direct antonym is 拡大する (kakudai suru - to enlarge/expand). Understanding this contrast will solidify your grasp of 縮小する.
Sentence Building
Practice creating sentences using 縮小する in various forms (past tense, potential, passive, causative) and with different objects or subjects.
Efficiency and Minimalism
The concept of reduction and efficiency is valued in Japanese culture. Relate 縮小する to ideas of streamlining and making things more manageable.
Kanji Breakdown
Break down the kanji: 縮 (shuku - shrink) and 小 (shou - small). This literal meaning 'shrink small' is a good anchor for remembering the word.
Beyond Physical Size
Remember that 縮小する applies not only to physical objects but also to abstract concepts like plans, operations, influence, and even the scope of research.
احفظها
وسيلة تذكّر
Imagine a 'shuku' (宿 - inn or lodging) that is so small, you have to 'sho' (小 - small) your bags to fit inside. The inn itself is shrinking!
ربط بصري
Picture a large piece of fabric that is shrinking significantly when put into a small washing machine labeled with a tiny '小' (shou). The fabric is visibly reducing in size.
Word Web
تحدٍّ
Try to describe three things you own that have shrunk over time or that you have intentionally made smaller. Use 縮小する in your descriptions.
أصل الكلمة
The word 縮小 (shukushou) is a compound word formed from two kanji. 縮 (shuku) means 'to shrink', 'to contract', or 'to gather'. 小 (shou) means 'small'. Together, they literally mean 'to shrink small' or 'to become small'. The verb する (suru) is added to make it a verb.
المعنى الأصلي: The kanji 縮 (shuku) itself implies gathering or pulling together, leading to a reduction in size. 小 (shou) reinforces the idea of becoming small.
Sino-Japanese (Kanji compound)السياق الثقافي
The term itself is generally neutral. However, in contexts like business or employment, discussing 'shukushou' (like reducing staff or operations) can be sensitive and should be handled with care and empathy.
In English, we have 'shrink', 'reduce', 'scale down', 'contract', 'miniaturize'. 'Shrink' often implies something becoming smaller on its own (like clothes), while 'reduce' and 'scale down' often imply an intentional action, similar to how 縮小する can be used.
تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية
سياقات واقعية
Business/Economics
- 事業を縮小する (jigyou o shukushou suru)
- 規模を縮小する (kibo o shukushou suru)
- 人員を縮小する (jinin o shukushou suru)
- コストを縮小する (kosuto o shukushou suru)
Technology/Design
- 画像を縮小する (gazou o shukushou suru)
- 画面を縮小する (gamen o shukushou suru)
- 印刷物を縮小する (insatsubutsu o shukushou suru)
- 縮小コピー (shukushou kopii)
Materials/Manufacturing
- 布が縮小する (nuno ga shukushou suru)
- 素材が縮小する (sozai ga shukushou suru)
- 生産を縮小する (seisan o shukushou suru)
- 収縮する (shuushuku suru)
Personal Finance/Planning
- 予算を縮小する (yosan o shukushou suru)
- 計画を縮小する (keikaku o shukushou suru)
- 支出を縮小する (shishutsu o shukushou suru)
- 生活を縮小する (seikatsu o shukushou suru)
General Description
- サイズを縮小する (saizu o shukushou suru)
- 領域を縮小する (ryouiki o shukushou suru)
- 影響力を縮小する (eikyouryoku o shukushou suru)
- 範囲を縮小する (hani o shukushou suru)
بدايات محادثة
"最近、何か縮小したものはありますか？例えば、使っているアプリの数とか。"
"もし会社が事業を縮小しなければならなくなったら、どうしますか？"
"縮小コピーって便利ですよね。どんな時に使いますか？"
"この服、洗濯したら縮小するかな？"
"将来、自分の住む場所を縮小したいと思ったことはありますか？"
مواضيع للكتابة اليومية
Describe a time when you had to reduce the scope of a project or plan. Use the word 縮小する in your explanation.
Think about a physical object you own that has shrunk over time. How did it happen, and how did you feel about it?
Imagine a company that needs to shrink its operations. What are the potential reasons, and what steps might they take? Use 縮小する in your description.
How does the concept of 'shrinking' or 'reduction' apply to your personal goals or lifestyle? Write about any areas where you might want to 'shukushou suru'.
Consider the difference between 縮小する (shukushou suru) and 減らす (herasu). Write sentences using both verbs to illustrate their distinct meanings.
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةThe main difference lies in what is being reduced. 縮小する refers to a reduction in size, scale, or scope (e.g., shrinking a business, shrinking an image). 減らす refers to a reduction in quantity, number, or amount (e.g., reducing staff, reducing costs). Think of 縮小する as 'shrinking' and 減らす as 'decreasing'.
Yes, absolutely. While it can mean physical shrinking, 縮小する is frequently used for abstract concepts. For example, you can 縮小する a plan (計画を縮小する), reduce the scale of operations (事業規模を縮小する), or even say that someone's influence has shrunk (影響力が縮小した).
Not necessarily. 縮小する can describe both intentional actions (e.g., a company deciding to reduce its size) and natural processes (e.g., fabric shrinking after washing, or a factory shrinking due to disuse). The context usually clarifies the intention.
The direct opposite of 縮小する is 拡大する (kakudai suru), which means 'to enlarge', 'to expand', or 'to magnify'. They are often used in contrast to describe opposing changes in size or scale.
縮む is generally more informal and intransitive, used for things that shrink naturally (like clothes). 縮小する is more formal, can be transitive (actively shrinking something) or intransitive, and is commonly used in business, technology, and for intentional reductions in scale. If you're talking about your sweater shrinking, use 縮んだ (chijinda). If you're talking about reducing a business, use 縮小する.
Yes, common phrases include 縮小コピー (shukushou kopii - reduced copy), 縮小印刷 (shukushou insatsu - reduced printing), 事業を縮小する (jigyou o shukushou suru - to reduce business operations), and 規模を縮小する (kibo o shukushou suru - to reduce scale).
When a company decides to 縮小する, it means they are reducing the size or scope of their operations. This could involve closing branches, reducing staff, cutting back on production, or decreasing the overall scale of their business activities, often due to financial reasons or strategic changes.
In digital contexts, 縮小する is used for making digital elements smaller. For example, you might 縮小する an image to fit on a webpage, reduce the font size, or scale down a window on your computer screen.
Yes, 縮小する can be used in scientific contexts, particularly when discussing physical properties of materials that shrink under certain conditions (e.g., heat, cold) or in fields like material science and engineering. The related verb 収縮する (shuushuku suru) is also common in scientific contexts for contraction.
Yes, it can be used to describe a shrinking population, often in contexts discussing demographic trends or population decline. For example, 人口が縮小している (jinkou ga shukushou shite iru - the population is shrinking). However, 減少する (genshou suru - to decrease) is also commonly used for population decline.
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Summary
縮小する (shukushou suru) means to shrink or reduce in size, scale, or scope. It's used for both physical things becoming smaller and abstract things like companies or plans being scaled down. Think of it as the opposite of 'enlarge' or 'expand'.
- Shrink, reduce in size or scale.
- Used for physical objects and abstract concepts like businesses.
- Opposite of enlarge or expand.
- Common in business, tech, and everyday contexts.
Distinguish from 減らす (herasu)
Remember that 縮小する is about size/scale, while 減らす is about quantity/number. Use 縮小する for shrinking a business or an image, and 減らす for reducing staff or costs.
Focus on Unvoiced Syllables
Pay attention to the unvoiced 'shuku' sound in 縮小する. The 'shi' and the following 'u' are often pronounced with less voicing, almost like a breathy 'shk'. This is common in natural Japanese speech.
Visual Association
Imagine a large object physically shrinking down to a tiny 'sho' (小 - small) size. This visual can help you remember the core meaning of 縮小する.
Transitive vs. Intransitive
Be mindful of the particle usage. Use を with the object when actively shrinking something (transitive), and が/は with the subject when something is shrinking on its own (intransitive).
محتوى ذو صلة
مزيد من كلمات business
遅めに
B1متأخر قليلاً أو متأخر عن المعتاد.
経理
B1المحاسبة هي إدارة السجلات المالية للشركة.
的確な
B1تحليل دقيق ومباشر للمشكلة.
達成する
B1تحقيق هدف أو إنجاز مهمة مخططة. هو الوصول إلى نتيجة ناجحة بعد بذل الجهد.
活性化
B2تنشيط أو إحياء شيء ما، مثل الاقتصاد أو المجتمع المحلي.
付加
B2إضافة أو إرفاق شيء إضافي إلى شيء موجود لزيادة قيمته أو وظيفته. 'تمت إضافة ميزة جديدة إلى التطبيق.'
優位性
B2تعني كلمة 優位性 امتلاك ميزة أو كون الشخص في وضع أفضل من الآخرين. قد تتمتع شركة ما بميزة تنافسية (優位性) بفضل التكنولوجيا المبتكرة. يسعى الرياضيون للحصول على أفضلية جسدية (優位性) للفوز بالمنافسة.
有利
A2يعني أن تكون في وضع مفيد أو ملائم.
有利に
B1بشكل مفيد؛ بشكل ملائم.
宣伝する
B1الترويج لشيء ما أو الإعلان عنه للجمهور لزيادة الوعي به.
