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A1 noun #3,471 am häufigsten 8 Min. Lesezeit

空調

kūchō Top 3,471

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Erklärung 空調 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you just need to know that '空調' (kuchō) means air conditioning, similar to 'エアコン' (eakon), but it sounds more like something you'd hear in a big building or a train station. While you might use 'エアコン' at home, you will see '空調' on signs in public. Think of it as 'the climate system.' When you are in a shop and it is cold, you can say '空調が強い' (kuchō ga tsuyoi) which means 'the AC is strong.' It is a very useful noun to recognize when traveling in Japan, especially during the hot summer months. You don't need to use it in complex sentences yet; just recognizing the word on a remote control or a wall panel in a hotel is a great start. It is made of two kanji: 'air' and 'adjust.'

At the A2 level, you should start distinguishing between 'エアコン' (the machine) and '空調' (the system/environment). You will use '空調' when talking about the temperature in a public place or an office. You should be able to form simple sentences like '空調をつけてください' (Please turn on the climate control). You will also notice that '空調' is used in compound words like '空調設備' (kuchō setsubi) in apartment listings. This level is about moving beyond just 'hot' or 'cold' and being able to identify the source of the comfort. You might also hear the verb '効く' (kiku - to work/be effective) used with it, as in '空調が効いています' (The AC is working well).

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By B1, you should be comfortable using '空調' in professional settings. You should understand that it is a more formal register than 'エアコン.' When you are at work or in a formal meeting, you would use '空調' to discuss the office environment. You should also understand related terms like '設定温度' (set temperature) and '風量' (air volume). You might need to explain a problem, such as '空調の調子が悪い' (The climate control is in bad condition). At this level, you are expected to understand that '空調' involves not just temperature, but also humidity and air quality. You will hear this word in weather reports and news segments about energy saving (節電 - setsuden).

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At the B2 level, you can discuss the technical and social aspects of '空調.' This includes the 'Cool Biz' campaign, where the government recommends setting the '空調' to 28 degrees Celsius in summer. You should be able to use the word in passive sentences, such as '空調が管理されている' (The climate control is being managed). You will also encounter '空調' in more abstract contexts, such as '空調の効いた快適な環境' (A comfortable environment with effective climate control). You should be able to differentiate between '空調' (HVAC) and '換気' (ventilation) and discuss how they work together in modern buildings. Your vocabulary should include '空調代' (kuchō-dai - climate control costs/utilities).

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At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '空調' within architectural and environmental discussions. You can read technical manuals or architectural reviews that discuss '空調システム' (kuchō shisutemu) and its energy efficiency (省エネ - shōene). You understand the historical shift from natural ventilation to mechanical '空調' in Japanese architecture. You can use the term in formal writing, such as business proposals or academic papers about urban heat islands. You are aware of the cultural implications of '空調'—how it affects Japanese office dynamics and the 'gendered' nature of office temperature settings. You can use the word fluently in complex grammatical structures, such as '空調の不備が原因で...' (Due to the inadequacy of the climate control...).

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At the C2 level, '空調' is a word you use with complete native-like precision. You understand its role in industrial standards and legal regulations regarding building health and safety. You can discuss the evolution of '空調' technology, from simple cooling units to AI-driven climate management systems that track human movement. You can interpret high-level literature where '空調' might be used metaphorically to describe a sterile or controlled atmosphere. You are capable of debating the environmental impact of '空調' on a global scale in Japanese. Your command of the word includes all its nuances in legal, technical, and social spheres, allowing you to navigate any conversation about the built environment in Japan with authority.

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空調 in 30 Sekunden

Formal term for air conditioning (HVAC).
Used in business, public spaces, and technical contexts.
Refers to the whole system, not just the cooling unit.
Key for professional communication and reading signs.

The Japanese word 空調 (kuchō) is a sophisticated noun that serves as an abbreviation for 空気調節 (kūki chōsetsu), which literally translates to 'air adjustment' or 'climate control.' While many beginners initially learn the katakana word エアコン (eakon), understanding 空調 is essential for navigating professional, technical, and formal environments in Japan. This term encompasses much more than just cooling a room; it refers to the holistic management of an indoor environment, including temperature regulation, humidity control, air purification, and ventilation. In a Japanese context, you will encounter this word frequently in office buildings, architectural specifications, public transportation announcements, and facility management discussions.

Technical Scope: Unlike the colloquial 'エアコン', which usually refers to the physical unit on the wall, 空調 refers to the system as a whole. It is used when discussing the quality of the air or the state of the climate control in a large space like a department store or a library.

このビルの空調は非常に効率的です。(Kono biru no kuchō wa hijō ni kōritsuteki desu.)

Translation: The air conditioning system in this building is very efficient.

Historically, Japan's approach to climate has been one of adaptation, but the rapid modernization of the 20th century necessitated words that could describe complex mechanical systems. The kanji 空 (air/sky) combined with 調 (adjust/tune) creates a powerful image of 'tuning the air' to human comfort. When you use this word, you sound more educated and professional. For example, if you are at a hotel and want to sound polite, mentioning that the 空調 is too strong is more natural than complaining about the 'eakon'.

Social Context: In Japanese business culture, the management of 空調 is often a topic of debate during the 'Cool Biz' and 'Warm Biz' campaigns, where office temperatures are strictly regulated to save energy.

空調の温度設定を28度に上げてください。(Kuchō no ondo settei o nijūhachi-do ni agete kudasai.)

Translation: Please raise the air conditioning temperature setting to 28 degrees.

Furthermore, the term is frequently used in construction and real estate. If you are looking for an apartment, the listing might say 空調完備 (kuchō kanbi), meaning 'fully equipped with climate control.' This is a standard phrase that implies a high level of comfort. In industrial settings, 空調 is critical for server rooms or food storage, where the 'adjustment' involves precise humidity levels that a standard home 'eakon' might not handle.

Mastering the usage of 空調 (kuchō) requires understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its common verbal pairings. Unlike verbs, 空調 functions as the object or subject of a sentence, often followed by particles like が (ga), を (o), or の (no). Because it is a formal term, it is frequently paired with formal verbs such as 調節する (chōsetsu suru - to adjust), 点検する (tenken suru - to inspect), or 効く (kiku - to be effective/working).

Verb Pairings: Commonly used with 効いている (kiite iru) to describe the current state. Example: '空調が効いている' (The climate control is working/effective).

会議室の空調が強すぎて、少し寒いです。(Kaigishitsu no kuchō ga tsuyosugite, sukoshi samui desu.)

Translation: The air conditioning in the meeting room is too strong, so it is a bit cold.

When you want to talk about turning the system on or off in a professional setting, you might use 稼働させる (kadō saseru - to put into operation) or 停止する (teishi suru - to stop). In a more casual but still polite conversation, つける (tsukeru - turn on) and 消す (kesu - turn off) are acceptable, but 空調 itself elevates the tone. For instance, in a luxury hotel, the staff will likely say '空調をお入れしましょうか？' (Shall I turn on the climate control for you?) using the humble-honorific pattern.

新しいオフィスの空調設備は、最新の省エネ技術を導入しています。(Atarashii ofisu no kuchō setsubi wa, saishin no shōene gijutsu o dōnyū shite imasu.)

Translation: The air conditioning equipment in the new office incorporates the latest energy-saving technology.

In Japanese, we also use 空調 in compound nouns. 空調設備 (kuchō setsubi) refers to the actual facilities or hardware. 空調管理 (kuchō kanri) refers to the management or maintenance of the system. If you are describing a room as 'air-conditioned,' you can say 空調の効いた部屋 (kuchō no kiita heya). This phrase is very common in literature and news to describe a comfortable environment during a heatwave.

In Japan, the word 空調 (kuchō) is omnipresent in public spaces and official communications. If you are riding a train—especially the Shinkansen—you might hear an announcement like '車内の空調を調節しております' (We are currently adjusting the climate control inside the train). In this context, using 'エアコン' would sound too casual for a public announcement. The railway company uses 空調 to reassure passengers that the entire system is being managed centrally for their comfort.

Workplace Environment: In a Japanese office, the 'General Affairs' department (Sōmu-bu) is usually responsible for the 空調. You might hear colleagues asking, '空調、もう少し弱くしてもらえますか？' (Could we have the climate control turned down a bit?).

このデパートは空調がよく効いていて、外の暑さを忘れさせてくれます。(Kono depāto wa kuchō ga yoku kiite ite, soto no atsusa o wasuresasete kuremasu.)

Translation: This department store has excellent air conditioning, making you forget the heat outside.

Another place you will frequently encounter this word is in the news or weather reports. During the summer months, news anchors often warn the public to use 空調 appropriately to avoid heatstroke (nechūshō). They use the formal term because it sounds like a medical or public safety recommendation. Similarly, in real estate advertisements, you'll see 空調 in the list of amenities, signaling that the building has a centralized system rather than just individual units.

美術館では、作品の保護のために厳密な空調管理が行われています。(Bijutsukan dewa, sakuhin no hogo no tame ni genmitsu na kuchō kanri ga okonawarete imasu.)

Translation: In art museums, strict climate control management is carried out to protect the artworks.

Finally, you will hear it in the service industry. High-end restaurants and hotels use 空調 when speaking to guests. If a server notices you shivering, they might say, '空調の風が直接当たっていますか？' (Is the air from the climate control hitting you directly?). This use of 空調 instead of 'エアコン' elevates the customer service experience, making it feel more professional and attentive.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 空調 (kuchō) in situations that are too casual. While it is never 'wrong' to be formal, calling the small, noisy air conditioner in your studio apartment '空調' might sound a bit like calling your bicycle a 'motorized transport vehicle.' It’s a matter of register. For your own home, エアコン (eakon) is almost always the better choice.

Register Confusion: Mistake: Asking a friend '空調をつけてもいい？' (May I turn on the climate control?). Correct: 'エアコンつけていい？' (Can I turn on the AC?).

❌ 家の空調が壊れました。
✅ 家のエアコンが壊れました。

Explanation: Unless you live in a high-tech smart building with central air, 'エアコン' is more natural for home repairs.

Another common mistake is confusing 空調 with simple ventilation (換気 - kanki). While climate control systems often include ventilation, they are not the same thing. In the COVID-19 era, Japanese people became very sensitive to the difference. If you open a window, you are doing 換気, not 空調. Similarly, don't confuse 空調 with 暖房 (danbō - heating) or 冷房 (reibō - cooling). 空調 is the system that provides those functions, but if you specifically want to say 'turn on the heat,' you should use 暖房をつける.

Lastly, learners sometimes struggle with the pronunciation of the long vowel in 空 (kū). It is not 'kucho,' but kūchō. Shortening the first syllable can make it sound like other words or simply unintelligible to native speakers. Also, remember that 空調 is a noun, not a verb. You cannot say '空調する' to mean 'I am air-conditioning'; you must say '空調を調節する' or '空調を入れる'.

While 空調 (kuchō) is the standard formal term, there are several related words that you should know to navigate different levels of specificity and formality in Japanese. The most obvious alternative is エアコン (eakon), which is the katakana shortening of 'air conditioner.' This is the go-to word for daily life, shopping for appliances, and talking with friends. It specifically points to the hardware.

エアコン vs. 空調: エアコン is the machine. 空調 is the system or the state of the air environment. You buy an 'eakon,' but you manage the 'kuchō.'

この部屋は冷房が効きすぎています。(Kono heya wa reibō ga kikisugite imasu.)

Comparison: Using 'reibō' (cooling) specifically identifies the function being used.

Then we have 冷房 (reibō) and 暖房 (danbō). These words specifically mean 'cooling' and 'heating' respectively. If you are in a room and you are hot, you ask for 冷房. If you are cold, you ask for 暖房. 空調 is the umbrella term for both. Another related term is 除湿 (joshitsu), which means 'dehumidifying.' In Japan's humid summers, this is a vital function of any 空調 system.

For technical contexts, you might hear HVAC (pronounced as the letters in English or referred to by its full Japanese translation 暖冷房換気). However, 空調 remains the dominant term in business and engineering. If you want to describe the air as 'stuffy' because the system isn't working, you might use the word 空気がこもる (kūki ga komoru). Conversely, if you want to say the air is 'fresh,' you use 空気が新鮮 (kūki ga shinsen). Knowing these allows you to describe the result of the 空調 rather than just the system itself.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The abbreviation 'kuchō' became standardized in the mid-20th century as large-scale HVAC systems were integrated into Japan's rebuilding cities. Before this, people relied on 'uchiwa' (fans) and 'sudare' (bamboo blinds).

Aussprachehilfe

UK kuːtʃoː

US kuːtʃoː

Pitch accent: kūCHŌ (Flat/Heiban style, where the pitch rises after the first syllable and stays high).

Reimt sich auf

Buchō (Department head) Kōchō (Principal) Shōchō (Symbol/Symptom) Hōchō (Kitchen knife) Gōchō (Sergeant) Dōchō (Synchronization) Jōchō (Atmosphere) Fūchō (Trend)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing it as 'kucho' (short vowels) which sounds like 'gut' or 'district'.
Confusing 'chō' with 'shō' (kūshō means vacancy).
Putting the stress on the first syllable like English 'CO-cho'.
Failing to elongate the 'u' sound.
Pronouncing 'chō' like 'chow' (as in food).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The kanji are common (N4/N3 level) but the word is introduced early as a concept.

Schreiben 3/5

Writing '調' correctly requires attention to the number of strokes in the 'en' radical.

Sprechen 1/5

Simple to pronounce once you master the long vowels.

Hören 2/5

Easy to recognize in public announcements once known.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

空気 (kūki) 調節 (chōsetsu) 寒い (samui) 暑い (atsui) 部屋 (heya)

Als Nächstes lernen

換気 (kanki) 湿度 (shitsudo) 設定 (settei) 設備 (setsubi) 省エネ (shōene)

Fortgeschritten

熱交換器 (netsu kōkanki - heat exchanger) 冷媒 (reibai - refrigerant) ダクト (dakuto - duct) 結露 (ketsuro - condensation) 断熱 (dannetsu - insulation)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + が効く (ga kiku)

空調が効く (The climate control works/is effective).

Noun + を入れる (o ireru)

空調を入れる (To turn on the AC - more formal than tsukeru).

Noun + を切る (o kiru)

空調を切る (To turn off the AC - more formal than kesu).

Noun + の効いた (no kiita) + Noun

空調の効いた部屋 (A room where the AC is working).

Noun + 完備 (kanbi)

空調完備 (Fully equipped with AC).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

空調をお願いします。

Climate control, please.

Noun + particle 'o' + onegaishimasu (polite request).

空調が寒いです。

The air conditioning is cold.

Subject 'kuchō' + particle 'ga' + adjective 'samui'.

ここは空調がありますか？

Is there air conditioning here?

Existence verb 'arimasu' used with 'kuchō'.

空調をつけます。

I will turn on the air conditioning.

Direct object 'kuchō' + verb 'tsukemasu'.

空調はどこですか？

Where is the air conditioning (control)?

Topic marker 'wa' + question word 'doko'.

空調が止まりました。

The air conditioning stopped.

Intransitive verb 'tomarimashita' (stopped).

空調を消してください。

Please turn off the air conditioning.

Verb 'keshite' (te-form of kesu) + kudasai.

空調がいいですね。

The air conditioning is good, isn't it?

Adjective 'ii' + sentence-ending particle 'ne'.

ホテルの空調はとても静かです。

The hotel's air conditioning is very quiet.

Possessive 'no' connects 'hoteru' and 'kuchō'.

空調の温度を下げましょうか？

Shall I lower the air conditioning temperature?

Volitional form 'mashōka' (shall I?).

この部屋は空調が効いていません。

The air conditioning isn't working in this room.

Verb 'kiite iru' (is working/effective) in negative form.

空調の音が少し気になります。

The sound of the air conditioning bothers me a little.

Verb 'ki ni naru' (to be bothered by/notice).

電車の空調が強いですね。

The train's air conditioning is strong, isn't it?

Noun 'densha' + 'no' + 'kuchō'.

空調を調節してもいいですか？

May I adjust the air conditioning?

Te-form + 'mo ii desu ka' (asking permission).

空調が故障しているようです。

It seems the air conditioning is broken.

Noun 'koshō' (breakdown) + 'shite iru yō desu' (seems to be).

新しい空調は省エネです。

The new air conditioning is energy-saving.

Noun 'shōene' (energy saving) used as a description.

オフィスの空調管理は総務部が行っています。

The General Affairs department manages the office climate control.

Compound noun 'kuchō kanri' (climate control management).

空調の効いた部屋でゆっくり休んでください。

Please take a good rest in an air-conditioned room.

Relative clause 'kuchō no kiita' (where AC is working).

空調設備が古いので、修理が必要です。

Since the air conditioning equipment is old, repairs are necessary.

Conjunction 'node' (because/since).

空調の風が直接当たらないようにしてください。

Please make sure the air from the AC doesn't hit me directly.

Negative verb + 'yō ni shite kudasai' (please ensure that...).

このビルは全館空調になっています。

This building has building-wide central air conditioning.

Compound 'zenkan kuchō' (building-wide climate control).

空調のフィルターを掃除しましょう。

Let's clean the air conditioning filters.

Direct object 'firutā' (filter) + 'sōji shimashō'.

空調のおかげで、夏でも快適に過ごせます。

Thanks to the air conditioning, we can spend time comfortably even in summer.

'Okage de' (thanks to) indicates a positive result.

空調の設定を25度に変更しました。

I changed the air conditioning setting to 25 degrees.

Verb 'henkō shimashita' (changed/altered).

節電のため、空調の使用を控えています。

To save electricity, we are refraining from using the air conditioning.

Verb 'hikaeru' (to refrain from) in te-form.

空調の導入により、作業効率が向上しました。

With the introduction of climate control, work efficiency has improved.

Noun 'dōnyū' (introduction) + 'ni yori' (due to/by).

この病院の空調は、空気清浄機能も備えています。

This hospital's climate control also features air purification functions.

Verb 'sonaeru' (to be equipped with).

空調が原因で、喉が乾燥してしまいました。

Because of the air conditioning, my throat has become dry.

'Ga gen-in de' (being the cause) + 'shimatta' (regrettable result).

最新の空調システムは、AIで温度を自動調節します。

The latest climate control systems automatically adjust temperature using AI.

Instrumental particle 'de' (using/by means of).

空調の配管工事が来週から始まります。

The piping work for the climate control starts next week.

Compound 'haikan kōji' (piping work).

空調の効き具合を確認してください。

Please check how well the air conditioning is working.

Suffix '-guai' (the state or condition of something).

空調のない部屋での作業は危険です。

Working in a room without air conditioning is dangerous.

Relative clause 'kuchō no nai' (that has no AC).

ビルの空調負荷を軽減するための対策を講じる。

We will take measures to reduce the air conditioning load of the building.

Technical term 'kuchō fuka' (AC load) + 'kōjiru' (to take measures).

空調による室内の気流バランスを最適化する。

Optimize the indoor airflow balance created by the climate control.

Technical term 'kiryū' (airflow) + 'saitekika' (optimization).

空調のランニングコストを抑えることが課題だ。

The challenge is to suppress the running costs of the climate control.

Noun 'kadai' (challenge/issue).

精密機器の保管には、厳格な空調管理が不可欠である。

For the storage of precision equipment, strict climate control is indispensable.

Adjective 'fukaketsu' (indispensable) + 'de aru' (formal copula).

空調の吹き出し口の配置を再検討する必要がある。

It is necessary to reconsider the placement of the air conditioning vents.

Compound 'fukidashiguchi' (vent/outlet) + 'saikentō' (reconsideration).

空調と自然換気を併用するハイブリッド方式を採用する。

Adopt a hybrid method that uses both climate control and natural ventilation.

Verb 'saiyō suru' (to adopt/employ).

空調の不具合が、従業員の健康に悪影響を及ぼしている。

The malfunction of the climate control is having a negative impact on employees' health.

Formal phrase 'akueikyō o oyobosu' (to exert a bad influence).

地域冷暖房システムにより、効率的な空調を実現する。

Achieve efficient climate control through a district heating and cooling system.

Noun 'jitsugen' (realization/achievement).

建築物衛生法に基づき、空調の清浄度を維持しなければならない。

Based on the Building Sanitation Act, we must maintain the cleanliness of the climate control.

Formal 'ni motozuki' (based on) + 'nakereba naranai' (must).

空調の自動制御アルゴリズムが、省エネルギー化の鍵を握る。

The automatic control algorithm of the climate control holds the key to energy conservation.

Metaphorical 'kagi o nigiru' (to hold the key).

空調設備のリニューアルは、資産価値の向上に直結する。

The renewal of climate control facilities directly leads to an increase in asset value.

Verb 'chokketsu suru' (to be directly linked/connected).

空調の騒音振動が、近隣住民との紛争の火種となることもある。

The noise and vibration of climate control systems can sometimes trigger disputes with neighbors.

Metaphorical 'hidane' (spark/cause of trouble).

空調の設計思想において、快適性と経済性の両立が問われている。

In the design philosophy of climate control, the balance between comfort and economy is being questioned.

Noun 'sekkei shisō' (design philosophy) + 'ryōritsu' (coexistence).

空調のドレン配管の勾配が不適切だと、漏水の原因となる。

If the slope of the climate control drain piping is inappropriate, it will cause water leakage.

Technical term 'kōbai' (slope/gradient).

空調の吹き出し温度を精密に制御することで、結露を防止する。

Prevent condensation by precisely controlling the air conditioning outlet temperature.

Noun 'ketsuro' (condensation) + 'bōshi' (prevention).

空調がもたらす人工的な環境が、人間の季節感に与える影響は小さくない。

The impact of the artificial environment brought by climate control on the human sense of seasons is not insignificant.

Double negative 'chiisakunai' (is not small/significant).

Synonyme

エアコン空気調節冷暖房クーラーヒーター

Gegenteile

自然換気外気

Häufige Kollokationen

空調が効く

空調を入れる

空調設備

空調管理

空調の効いた

空調を調節する

空調が止まる

全館空調

空調代

空調の風

Häufige Phrasen

空調完備

— Fully equipped with air conditioning. Often seen in apartment or hotel listings.

この部屋は空調完備です。

空調システム

— Air conditioning system. Used when referring to the technical setup.

最新の空調システムを導入。

空調工事

— Air conditioning installation or repair work.

今日は空調工事があります。

空調の不具合

— A malfunction or issue with the climate control.

空調の不具合を報告する。

中央空調

— Central air conditioning. Common in large offices.

中央空調なので個別設定ができない。

空調の設定温度

— The set temperature of the climate control.

空調の設定温度を確認する。

空調効率

— The efficiency of the air conditioning system.

空調効率を高める工夫。

空調の効きすぎ

— The air conditioning being too strong (over-cooled or over-heated).

空調の効きすぎで風邪を引いた。

個別空調

— Individually controlled air conditioning (per room).

全室個別空調になっています。

空調服

— Special work clothes with built-in fans to cool the wearer.

工事現場で空調服を着る。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

空調 vs エアコン

エアコン refers to the unit; 空調 refers to the system or process.

空調 vs 換気

換気 is just moving air in/out; 空調 includes temperature and humidity control.

空調 vs 送風

送風 is just 'fan mode' (moving air without cooling/heating).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"空調の効いた天国"

— A metaphor for a very comfortable place during extreme weather.

外は猛暑だが、ここは空調の効いた天国だ。

Casual

"空調と心中する"

— To be so dependent on AC that you can't leave the room (humorous).

今年の夏は空調と心中するつもりだ。

Slang/Humorous

"空調の奴隷"

— Someone who is overly sensitive to temperature and constantly adjusts the AC.

彼は空調の奴隷になっている。

Informal

"空調が命"

— Expressing that air conditioning is the most important thing (e.g., for a server room).

サーバー室は空調が命です。

Professional

"空調を味方につける"

— To use climate control effectively to improve productivity.

空調を味方につけて仕事をこなす。

Business

"空調の効かない戦場"

— A metaphor for a very difficult or harsh work environment.

真夏の厨房は空調の効かない戦場だ。

Literary

"空調に殺される"

— Exaggeration for feeling very sick due to cold AC.

このオフィスの空調に殺されそうだ。

Slang

"空調の風を食べる"

— To stand directly in front of the vent to cool down quickly.

暑すぎて空調の風を食べている。

Child-friendly/Casual

"空調が呼吸する"

— Personification of a system that cycles on and off audibly.

静かな夜、空調が呼吸する音が聞こえる。

Literary

"空調に頼り切る"

— To rely completely on air conditioning for comfort.

現代人は空調に頼り切りだ。

Neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

空調 vs 扇風機

Both move air.

A fan (senpūki) only moves air; 空調 changes the air's properties.

扇風機より空調のほうが涼しい。

空調 vs 空気清浄機

Both deal with 'air'.

An air purifier (kūki seijōki) only cleans air; 空調 manages temperature.

空調に空気清浄機能がついている。

空調 vs 除湿機

ACs often dehumidify.

A dehumidifier (joshitsuki) only removes moisture; 空調 is a total system.

空調の除湿モードを使う。

空調 vs ヒーター

Both provide heat.

A heater is usually a portable device; 空調 is built-in.

空調の暖房をつける。

空調 vs 加湿器

Both affect humidity.

A humidifier (kashitsuki) adds moisture; 空調 often dries air out.

空調を使うときは加湿器も必要だ。

Satzmuster

[Place] の空調は [Adjective] です。

この部屋の空調はいいです。

空調を [Verb-te] ください。

空調を消してください。

空調の [Noun] を [Verb]。

空調の温度を下げます。

空調が [Verb-te] いるので、[Result]。

空調が効いているので、涼しいです。

空調の [Noun] に基づき、[Action]。

空調の設計に基づき、工事を行う。

空調の [Noun] が [Noun] に [Verb]。

空調の清浄度が作業効率に直結する。

空調の [Noun] が気になる。

空調の音が気になる。

空調をつけましょうか？

Wortfamilie

Substantive

空調機 (kuchōki - AC unit)

空調設備 (kuchō setsubi - AC facilities)

空調管理 (kuchō kanri - AC management)

Verben

空調する (kuchō suru - to air condition, rare as a standalone verb, usually compound)

Adjektive

空調の効いた (kuchō no kiita - air-conditioned)

Verwandt

空気 (kūki - air)

調節 (chōsetsu - adjustment)

環境 (kankyō - environment)

温度 (ondo - temperature)

湿度 (shitsudo - humidity)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Very high in professional and public contexts in Japan.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'kucho' instead of 'kūchō'. → 空調 (kūchō)
The long vowels are essential. 'Kucho' is not a word and might be confused with 'kuchō' (district head) if the pitch is wrong, though context usually helps.
Using '空調' for a handheld fan. → 扇風機 (senpūki) or うちわ (uchiwa)
A fan does not condition the air; it only moves it. '空調' implies a mechanical system that changes temperature.
Saying '空調する' as a common verb. → 空調を調節する (kūchō o chōsetsu suru)
While 'kuchō suru' exists in technical manuals, in speech, it's better to use it as a noun with a verb like 'chōsetsu suru' or 'ireru'.
Using '空調' when you only mean 'heating'. → 暖房 (danbō)
'空調' is the whole system. If you are specifically cold and want the heat on, 'danbō' is clearer.
Confusing '空調' with '換気'. → 換気 (kanki)
Ventilation (kanki) is about air exchange. Climate control (kuchō) is about air properties. Don't say 'kuchō' if you just want to open a window.

Tipps

Office Etiquette

In a Japanese office, the 'kuchō' is often controlled by a central system. If you are uncomfortable, ask the 'Sōmu' (General Affairs) department or use a polite 'Sumimasen' to colleagues before adjusting it.

Kanji Breakdown

Remember: 空 (Air) + 調 (Adjust). If you can't remember the word, think of 'adjusting the air' and the word 'kū-chō' will come to you.

Avoid AC Sickness

Japanese people often use the term 'kuchō-byō' (AC sickness). Carrying a light shawl or 'kādegan' (cardigan) is common because public 'kuchō' can be very cold.

Verbs Matter

Pair 'kuchō' with 'ireru' (to put in/turn on) or 'kiru' (to cut/turn off) for a more natural, professional sound than 'tsukeru/kesu'.

Train Signs

Look at the digital displays in trains. When they say '空調調節中', it means the system is currently working to reach the target temperature.

Cool Biz

The word 'kuchō' is central to the 'Cool Biz' (summer) and 'Warm Biz' (winter) campaigns. Knowing this word helps you understand office posters about energy saving.

Smart Homes

In modern 'smart home' marketing, you'll see 'kuchō' used to describe integrated systems that control the whole house's air quality.

Appliance Stores

At Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera, look for the 'エアコン' section, but check the labels for '空調能力' (climate control capacity).

Maintenance

If your AC is leaking or making noise, tell the landlord '空調の調子が悪い' (The climate control is in bad condition).

Public Announcements

Public announcements often use 'kuchō' to sound authoritative. It's a key word for understanding why the train might be stopping or why a room is closed.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine 'KŪ' (the air) being 'CHŌ' (tuned) like a guitar to make it sound/feel just right. Kū-chō: Tuning the air.

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a giant dial in the 'sky' (空) that 'tunes' (調) the temperature of a whole building.

Word Web

Air (空気) Adjustment (調節) Temperature (温度) Humidity (湿度) Office (オフィス) Comfort (快適) Electricity (電気) System (システム)

Herausforderung

Try to find the '空調' button or sign in the next Japanese building you enter. Notice if it's centralized or a separate unit.

Wortherkunft

Formed from the kanji '空' (kū - sky/air) and '調' (chō - tune/adjust). It is a Sino-Japanese (Kango) word created as an abbreviation of '空気調節' (Kūki Chōsetsu).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The regulation or adjustment of air.

Japanese (Sino-Japanese origin).

Kultureller Kontext

Be mindful when asking to change the 'kuchō' in a shared office; it's polite to ask those around you first.

In English, we usually just say 'AC' or 'air conditioning' for everything. Japanese makes a sharper distinction between the home unit and the building system.

Cool Biz Campaign (Government initiative) Daikin (Famous Japanese HVAC company) Panasonic 'Eolia' series

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

At the Office

空調が寒いです。
空調の設定を変える。
空調を弱める。
総務に空調を頼む。

In a Hotel

空調の使い方がわかりません。
空調の音がうるさい。
空調が効かない。
個別空調ですか？

Real Estate / Apartment Hunting

空調完備ですか？
全館空調の物件。
空調代は別ですか？
空調の点検。

Public Transport

弱冷房車 (Weakly air-conditioned car).
空調を調節中。
車内空調。
空調の吹き出し口。

Health and Safety

空調で喉が痛い。
適切な空調利用。
空調による乾燥。
空調と換気。

Gesprächseinstiege

"「この部屋、空調が効きすぎていませんか？」 (Doesn't the AC feel too strong in this room?)"

"「最近の空調代、高くなりましたよね。」 (Climate control costs have gotten expensive lately, haven't they?)"

"「空調の温度設定、何度が一番快適だと思いますか？」 (What temperature setting for the AC do you think is most comfortable?)"

"「ここの空調、ちょっと音が気になりませんか？」 (Doesn't the sound of the AC here bother you a bit?)"

"「新しいオフィスの空調はどうですか？」 (How is the climate control in the new office?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

日本の夏の空調について、あなたの意見を書いてください。 (Write your opinion about air conditioning in the Japanese summer.)

空調がない世界を想像して、一日の生活を書いてみましょう。 (Imagine a world without air conditioning and write about a day in your life.)

あなたが一番快適だと感じる空調の設定について説明してください。 (Explain the air conditioning setting that you find most comfortable.)

「節電」と「空調」のバランスについて、どう思いますか？ (What do you think about the balance between 'energy saving' and 'air conditioning'?)

旅行先のホテルで空調が壊れていたら、どう対応しますか？ (How would you react if the AC was broken in a hotel where you were staying?)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, '空調' stands for '空気調節' (air adjustment), which includes heating (暖房), cooling (冷房), and dehumidifying (除湿). It is a year-round term used for any climate control system.

You can, but it sounds very formal. Most people say 'エアコン' (eakon) for their home units. Use '空調' if you have a sophisticated central air system or are talking to a repair technician.

The Japanese government recommends setting '空調' to 28 degrees Celsius during the summer to save energy. This is a very common topic in Japanese offices.

You can say '空調の温度を上げてください' (Please raise the AC temperature) or '空調を弱めてください' (Please weaken the AC).

It means the property is 'fully equipped with air conditioning.' This usually implies that you don't need to buy your own unit and the system is ready to use.

Yes, '空調' is the closest Japanese equivalent to the English acronym HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning).

Trains use '空調' because they manage the air for hundreds of people at once using a centralized system. It sounds professional and reassures passengers.

Technically yes, but in modern Japan, '換気' (kanki - ventilation) is often discussed separately to emphasize bringing in fresh outside air.

It translates to 'weakly air-conditioned car.' It's a specific train car where the '空調' is set to a slightly higher temperature for people who get cold easily.

It typically appears around the N3 level, but it is such a common word in daily life that even A1/A2 learners should recognize it.

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