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B2 noun #4,000 am häufigsten 7 Min. Lesezeit

互換性

gokansei Top 4,000

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At the A1 level, you don't need to use '互換性' (Gokan-sei) in complex sentences. Just think of it as a special word for 'matching' or 'working together' for machines. You might see it in a store. If you see '互換' on a box for a phone charger, it means 'This works with your phone even if it's not the official brand.' It's a useful word to recognize when shopping for electronics in Japan. Just remember: it's for things, not for friends!

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At the A2 level, you can start using '互換性' with simple verbs like 'ある' (there is) and 'ない' (there isn't). You can use it to talk about your gadgets. For example, 'このペンは私のタブレットと互換性がありますか？' (Does this pen have compatibility with my tablet?). This is very helpful when you are at a store like Yodobashi Camera. You are learning that Japanese has specific words for technical things that are different from words for people.

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At the B1 level, you should be able to understand '互換性' in the context of software and daily technology. You can use it to describe problems: '互換性がないので、ファイルが開けません' (I can't open the file because there's no compatibility). You also start to see it in 'if' sentences, like '互換性があれば、買いたいです' (If there is compatibility, I want to buy it). You are moving beyond simple shopping and starting to explain *why* something works or doesn't work.

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At the B2 level, you should use '互換性' fluently in professional or technical discussions. You should understand terms like '下位互換性' (backward compatibility) and '上位互換性' (forward compatibility). You can discuss the pros and cons of system updates and how they affect '互換性を維持する' (maintaining compatibility). You understand that this word is essential for IT, engineering, and manufacturing contexts in Japan, and you can use it to describe complex system relationships.

At the C1 level, you can use '互換性' to discuss abstract concepts like 'social systems compatibility' or 'cross-industrial standards.' You can use formal verbs like '担保する' (to guarantee/secure) or '欠如する' (to lack). You can write professional reports explaining how a lack of 互換性 leads to market fragmentation (Galapagos Syndrome). You are also aware of the nuances between '互換性', '適合性', and '整合性' (consistency/integrity) and can choose the right one for the situation.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of '互換性' in all its forms. You can engage in deep philosophical or highly technical debates about the evolution of technology and the necessity of universal compatibility. You can analyze the etymology of the kanji to explain the concept to others and use the word in high-level academic writing. You understand the subtle marketing implications of using '互換' vs '専用' (exclusive/dedicated) in Japanese consumer psychology.

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互換性 in 30 Sekunden

Refers to the technical ability of systems or parts to work together.
Commonly used in IT, electronics, and manufacturing contexts in Japan.
Differentiated from 'Aishou' which is for human relationships.
Crucial for describing backward (下位) and forward (上位) compatibility.

The term 互換性 (Gokan-sei) is a cornerstone of modern Japanese technical and business vocabulary. At its heart, it describes the ability of two or more things—usually technical components, software programs, or systems—to operate together without conflict or to be used as direct substitutes for one another. In English, we translate this simply as 'compatibility.' However, the Japanese term carries a specific weight in discussions regarding industrial standards, software development, and consumer electronics. The kanji themselves provide a blueprint for the meaning: 互 (go) meaning 'mutual' or 'each other,' 換 (kan) meaning 'exchange' or 'replace,' and 性 (sei) which denotes a 'nature' or 'property.' Thus, it is the 'nature of mutual exchangeability.'

Technical Context: In the realm of IT, this refers to 'backward compatibility' (下位互換性 - kai gokan-sei), where new software can run files from older versions, or 'cross-platform compatibility' where hardware works across different operating systems.

この新しいOSは、古いアプリケーションとの互換性を維持しています。
(This new OS maintains compatibility with old applications.)

Beyond just computers, you will hear this word used in manufacturing. For example, if a car manufacturer uses the same bolt size across different models, those parts have 互換性. It is also used in biological contexts, such as blood type compatibility, though in medical settings, terms like '適合性' (tekigousei) are sometimes preferred. The frequency of this word has spiked since the digital revolution, as the 'Galapagos effect' in Japan—where Japanese technology evolved in isolation—created massive issues with global 互換性. Consumers often check for this word when buying chargers, ink cartridges, or gaming peripherals to ensure they aren't wasting money on a product that won't connect.

Business Usage: Companies often struggle with 'system compatibility' during mergers. If Company A uses one database and Company B uses another, the lack of 互換性 can cost millions of yen to resolve.

他社製品との互換性がないため、不便だ。
(It is inconvenient because there is no compatibility with other companies' products.)

In summary, 互換性 is about the 'handshake' between two entities. If the handshake is firm and clear, you have high 互換性. If they speak different languages and cannot connect, you have none. It is a vital word for anyone working in engineering, design, or retail in Japan.

Using 互換性 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun and how it interacts with verbs like 'ある' (to have/exist), '保つ' (to maintain), and '確保する' (to ensure). It is almost never used for people's personalities; for that, you would use '相性' (aishou). 互換性 is strictly for functions and systems.

Sentence Pattern 1: [A] と [B] の互換性: This is the most common way to describe the relationship between two specific things.

WindowsとMacの間でファイルの互換性をチェックする。
(Check the file compatibility between Windows and Mac.)

When discussing technology, you often encounter '上位互換' (joui gokan - forward compatibility) and '下位互換' (kai gokan - backward compatibility). For instance, a PlayStation 5 might have 下位互換性 with PlayStation 4 games. This is a major selling point in the Japanese gaming market. Note that the word is often followed by 'がある' (exists) or 'がない' (does not exist).

Sentence Pattern 2: [Noun] との互換性を高める: Used when an action is being taken to improve or increase compatibility.

最新のアップデートで、古いプラグインとの互換性が高まった。
(With the latest update, compatibility with old plugins has improved.)

In formal reports, you might see '互換性を担保する' (tanpo suru), which means to guarantee or secure compatibility. This is high-level business Japanese. Conversely, if something is 'completely incompatible,' you say '全く互換性がない' (mattaku gokan-sei ga nai). Understanding these collocations helps you sound more natural in professional environments.

If you walk into an electronics giant like Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera in Akihabara, you will see 互換性 everywhere. It is prominently displayed on the packaging of third-party accessories. For instance, when looking for a replacement charging cable for an iPhone, the packaging might say 'MFi認証' (MFi Certified) or 'iOS互換' (iOS Compatible). This is a crucial distinction for Japanese consumers who are often wary of 'non-genuine' (非純正 - hijunsei) products that might lack 互換性 and damage their devices.

The Gaming Community: Gamers in Japan are obsessed with 'backward compatibility.' When the Nintendo Switch was released, the lack of 互換性 with Wii U discs was a major topic of discussion on forums like 2chan or Twitter (X).

「このコントローラー、Switchとの互換性あるかな？」
("Does this controller have compatibility with the Switch?")

In the workplace, IT support staff use this word daily. When a company updates its security software, the first question employees ask is whether it has 互換性 with their current workflow or specialized software. In meetings, you might hear a project manager say, '互換性の問題で、プロジェクトが遅れています' (The project is delayed due to compatibility issues). This is a very common 'excuse' or explanation in technical hurdles.

Lastly, you will see it in digital manuals and 'Read Me' files. If you download a Japanese app, the 'Required Environment' (動作環境) section will always list 互換性 details regarding OS versions and hardware specs. It is a word that bridges the gap between the manufacturer's promise and the user's reality.

The most frequent mistake learners make with 互換性 is using it to describe human relationships. In English, we might say 'I have great compatibility with my partner,' but in Japanese, using 互換性 here would sound like you are both robots or pieces of software. For human chemistry, the word is 相性 (Aishou).

Mistake: Human Compatibility: Incorrect: 彼との互換性がいい (I have good compatibility with him).
Correct: 彼とは相性がいい.

このアプリは古いスマホと互換性がありません。
(Correct technical usage: This app is not compatible with old smartphones.)

Another mistake is confusing 互換性 with 適合性 (Tekigousei). While they overlap, 適合性 refers more to 'suitability' or 'conformity to standards' (like a product meeting safety regulations). 互換性 specifically implies the ability to swap one for the other or work together. For example, a key might be 'suitable' (適合) for a lock, but we talk about the 'compatibility' (互換性) of two different software formats.

Finally, watch out for the particle usage. It is usually '～との互換性' (compatibility with...) or '～の間の互換性' (compatibility between...). Using 'に' incorrectly is a common learner error. Ensure you use 'と' to show the mutual relationship.

To truly master 互換性, you need to know its neighbors in the Japanese lexicon. Depending on the context, a different word might be more precise.

相性 (Aishou): Used for human chemistry, food pairings (like wine and cheese), or even the 'chemistry' between a player and a specific sports team. It is subjective and emotional.
適合性 (Tekigousei): Used for 'fitness' or 'suitability.' Does this person fit the job requirements? Does this product meet the ISO standards? It's about meeting a criteria.
共存 (Kyouzon): Meaning 'coexistence.' Often used when two different systems can live on the same computer without crashing each other, even if they don't 'talk' to each other.

異なるシステム間でのデータの互換性を維持するのは難しい。
(It is difficult to maintain data compatibility between different systems.)

In casual conversation, people might just use the katakana word コンパチ (Konpachi), which is a shortened version of 'compatible.' This is very informal and usually used by tech enthusiasts or engineers in a relaxed setting. For example, 'これ、コンパチ品だよ' (This is a compatible/third-party product). However, in any formal writing or business meeting, stick to 互換性 to maintain a professional tone.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word 'Gokan' (互換) was used in mathematics long before computers, referring to 'transpositions' or permutations. It only became a household word with the rise of personal computers in the 1980s.

Aussprachehilfe

UK ɡo̞ka̠ɰ̃se̞ː

US ɡo̞ka̠ɰ̃se̞ː

Flat (Heiban) pitch accent: go-KAN-SEI (the pitch stays relatively high after the first syllable).

Reimt sich auf

適応性 (Tekiousei) 可能性 (Kanousei) 生産性 (Seisansei) 安全性 (Anzensei) 信頼性 (Shinraisei) 多様性 (Tayousei) 再現性 (Saigensei) 一貫性 (Ikkansei)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'sei' as 'say' instead of a long 'e' sound.
Merging 'kan' and 'sei' too quickly without the nasal 'n' pause.
Applying English word stress (GOK-an-sei).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 7/5

The kanji are mid-level but the term is very common in technical reading.

Schreiben 8/5

Writing '換' and '性' correctly requires practice.

Sprechen 6/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but the pitch accent must be flat.

Hören 5/5

Easily recognizable once you know the 'sei' suffix pattern.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

互い (Tagai) 交換 (Koukan) 性質 (Seishitsu) ある (Aru) ない (Nai)

Als Nächstes lernen

適合性 (Tekigousei) 整合性 (Seigousei) 相互運用性 (Sougo unyousei) 規格 (Kikaku) 標準化 (Hyoujunka)

Fortgeschritten

バイナリ互換 (Binary compatibility) ソース互換 (Source compatibility) API互換 (API compatibility)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + との + Noun

以前のモデルとの互換性

Noun + のある + Noun

互換性のあるパーツ

Potential Form + ように

互換性を保てるようにアップデートする

Noun + に関する

互換性に関する問い合わせ

Conditional ~ば

互換性があれば問題ない

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Beispiele nach Niveau

これは互換性がありますか？

Does this have compatibility?

Simple question using 'ありますか'.

互換性のある電池です。

It is a compatible battery.

Using 'のある' to modify a noun.

互換性がないです。

There is no compatibility.

Negative form 'ない'.

古いカメラと互換性があります。

It is compatible with old cameras.

Using 'と' to mean 'with'.

このソフトは互換性がいいです。

This software has good compatibility.

Using 'いい' as an adjective for compatibility.

互換性をチェックします。

I will check the compatibility.

Direct object with 'を'.

互換性は大事です。

Compatibility is important.

Simple A is B sentence.

安い互換インクを買いました。

I bought cheap compatible ink.

Shortened '互換' used as a prefix.

新しいスマホは、古い充電器と互換性がありますか？

Is the new smartphone compatible with the old charger?

Noun + との互換性.

互換性がないので、使えません。

Because there is no compatibility, I cannot use it.

Using 'ので' for reason.

この部品は多くのモデルと互換性があります。

This part is compatible with many models.

Plurality with '多くの'.

互換性を確認してから買ってください。

Please buy it after confirming compatibility.

Te-form + から (after doing).

互換性のあるアプリを探しています。

I am looking for a compatible app.

Searching for a specific type of noun.

Macとの互換性はありますか？

Is there compatibility with Mac?

Specific target with 'との'.

このゲームは古いハードと互換性がない。

This game is not compatible with old hardware.

Informal negative 'ない'.

互換性について教えてください。

Please tell me about the compatibility.

Using 'について' (about).

互換性を維持するために、アップデートが必要です。

An update is necessary to maintain compatibility.

Tame ni (in order to).

以前のバージョンとの互換性が失われました。

Compatibility with previous versions was lost.

Passive voice '失われた'.

この製品は業界標準との互換性を備えています。

This product features compatibility with industry standards.

Using 'を備えている' (to be equipped with).

互換性の問題が解決しました。

The compatibility issue has been resolved.

Compound noun '互換性の問題'.

他社製品との互換性を高める必要があります。

We need to increase compatibility with other companies' products.

Hitsuyou ga aru (there is a need).

互換性があるかどうか、テストしてください。

Please test whether it has compatibility or not.

Ka dou ka (whether or not).

このプラグインは最新のブラウザと互換性があります。

This plugin is compatible with the latest browsers.

Saishin no (latest).

互換性を重視して設計されました。

It was designed with a focus on compatibility.

Juushi shite (prioritizing).

新システムへの移行に際し、データの互換性が懸念されている。

Regarding the transition to the new system, data compatibility is a concern.

Ni saishi (on the occasion of).

下位互換性を確保することは、ユーザーの利便性に直結する。

Ensuring backward compatibility directly links to user convenience.

Chokketsu suru (to be directly linked).

このフォーマットは、複数のプラットフォーム間で互換性を持つ。

This format has compatibility across multiple platforms.

Motsu (to possess/have).

独自の規格を採用したため、他との互換性が損なわれた。

Because they adopted a unique standard, compatibility with others was damaged.

Sononawareta (was damaged/impaired).

互換モードを利用すれば、古いソフトも動作します。

If you use compatibility mode, old software will also run.

Gokan moodo (compatibility mode).

ソフトウェアの互換性テストを自動化する。

We will automate software compatibility testing.

Jidou-ka suru (to automate).

互換性の欠如が、製品の普及を妨げている。

The lack of compatibility is hindering the spread of the product.

Kejyo (lack/deficiency).

今回のアップデートでは、上位互換性が保証されています。

In this update, forward compatibility is guaranteed.

Hoshou sarete iru (is guaranteed).

オープンソースの採用により、広範な互換性を実現した。

By adopting open source, broad compatibility was realized.

Kouhan-na (broad/extensive).

レガシーシステムとの互換性維持が、開発の大きな足枷となっている。

Maintaining compatibility with legacy systems is a major shackle to development.

Ashikase (shackle/hindrance).

規格の乱立は、消費者にとっての互換性低下を招く恐れがある。

The proliferation of standards poses a risk of reducing compatibility for consumers.

Maneku osore ga aru (fear of causing/leading to).

クロスブラウザ互換性の確保は、Webデザインにおける基本である。

Ensuring cross-browser compatibility is fundamental in web design.

Kurosu burauza (cross-browser).

互換性を担保するための厳格なプロトコルが策定された。

Strict protocols were established to guarantee compatibility.

Tanpo suru (to guarantee/collateralize).

バイナリレベルでの互換性を追求するのは現実的ではない。

Pursuing binary-level compatibility is not realistic.

Tsuikyuu suru (to pursue).

その仕様変更は、既存のハードウェアとの互換性を完全に断ち切るものだ。

That specification change completely breaks compatibility with existing hardware.

Tachikiru (to cut off/sever).

相互運用性と互換性は、デジタル社会の基盤となる概念だ。

Interoperability and compatibility are the foundational concepts of a digital society.

Sougo unyou-sei (interoperability).

後方互換性を切り捨てる決断が、Appleの急速な技術革新を支えてきた。

The decision to abandon backward compatibility has supported Apple's rapid technological innovation.

Kirisuteru (to discard/abandon).

法制度の互換性を図ることは、国際貿易の円滑化に不可欠である。

Achieving compatibility between legal systems is essential for smoothing international trade.

Hakaru (to aim for/achieve).

アーキテクチャの根本的な違いにより、完全な互換性の実現は技術的に不可能だ。

Due to fundamental differences in architecture, achieving perfect compatibility is technically impossible.

Konpon-teki (fundamental).

互換性レイヤーを介することで、異種OS間での動作を可能にしている。

By going through a compatibility layer, it enables operation between different OSs.

Reiyaa (layer).

標準化団体は、将来的な技術との互換性を念頭に置いて仕様を策定すべきだ。

Standardization bodies should formulate specifications with future technology compatibility in mind.

Nentou ni oite (keeping in mind).

下位互換性の呪縛から逃れられないことが、企業の成長を阻害する場合もある。

Being unable to escape the spell of backward compatibility can sometimes hinder a company's growth.

Jubaku (spell/curse/binding).

データの互換性を維持しつつ、セキュリティを強化するという難題に直面している。

We are facing the difficult task of strengthening security while maintaining data compatibility.

Iji shitsutsu (while maintaining).

互換性という概念そのものが、クラウドネイティブな環境では変容しつつある。

The very concept of compatibility is transforming in cloud-native environments.

Hen-you shitsutsu aru (is in the process of transforming).

Synonyme

適合性コンパチビリティ整合性

Gegenteile

不整合排他性

Häufige Kollokationen

互換性がある

互換性がない

互換性を保つ

互換性を維持する

互換性を確保する

互換性を確認する

互換性をテストする

互換性に欠ける

互換性を持たせる

互換性を担保する

Häufige Phrasen

下位互換性

— Backward compatibility; new systems supporting old software/hardware.

PS5はPS4との下位互換性がある。

上位互換性

— Forward compatibility; old systems being able to handle new data formats.

このファイルは上位互換性がない。

互換モード

— Compatibility mode in software (like Windows).

互換モードでプログラムを実行する。

互換インク

— Third-party printer ink that is compatible but not original.

互換インクは安くて助かる。

互換部品

— Compatible parts (often third-party).

車の互換部品を探す。

完全互換

— Perfect or 100% compatibility.

このハードは完全互換だ。

相互互換

— Mutual compatibility between two entities.

二つの規格は相互互換がある。

互換性リスト

— A compatibility list (often found on websites).

互換性リストをチェックしてください。

互換性問題

— Compatibility problems/issues.

互換性問題でエラーが出た。

互換性重視

— Focusing on/prioritizing compatibility.

互換性重視の設計にする。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

互換性 vs 相性 (Aishou)

Aishou is for people/chemistry; Gokansei is for machines/technical parts.

互換性 vs 適合性 (Tekigousei)

Tekigousei is about fitting a standard or being suitable; Gokansei is about being swappable or working together.

互換性 vs 整合性 (Seigousei)

Seigousei is about logical consistency or data integrity; Gokansei is about functional compatibility.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"互換性を切り捨てる"

— To intentionally drop compatibility to move forward with new tech.

Appleはしばしば古い互換性を切り捨てる。

Business/Tech

"互換性の呪縛"

— Being held back by the need to maintain compatibility with old systems.

銀行のシステムは互換性の呪縛に苦しんでいる。

Metaphorical/Business

"互換性の壁"

— The barrier created by incompatible systems.

互換性の壁にぶつかって開発が止まった。

Journalistic

"互換性を盾にする"

— Using compatibility as an excuse to avoid making changes.

彼は互換性を盾にして新機能の導入を拒んだ。

Critical

"互換性を武器にする"

— Using compatibility as a selling point or competitive advantage.

その会社は高い互換性を武器に市場を拡大した。

Business

"互換性を度外視する"

— To ignore compatibility completely.

性能のみを追求し、互換性を度外視した製品。

Neutral

"互換性の糸口"

— A clue or starting point to solving a compatibility issue.

ようやく互換性の糸口が見えてきた。

Literary

"互換性を担保に取る"

— To ensure compatibility as a prerequisite for a deal.

契約では互換性を担保に取っている。

Legal/Business

"互換性の溝"

— The gap/difference between two incompatible systems.

両者の互換性の溝は深い。

Metaphorical

"互換性を謳う"

— To claim or boast about compatibility in marketing.

その製品は「全機種との互換性」を謳っている。

Marketing

Leicht verwechselbar

互換性 vs 適応性

Both start with 'nature of...'

適応性 (Tekiousei) is adaptability (adjusting to change), while 互換性 is compatibility (working together as is).

彼は適応性が高い (He is very adaptable).

互換性 vs 共通性

Both imply having things in common.

共通性 is just having shared traits; 互換性 is the functional ability to be used together.

二つの文化には共通性がある (The two cultures have commonalities).

互換性 vs 一致

Both mean matching.

一致 is a perfect match/agreement; 互換性 is the ability to function together even if not identical.

意見が一致した (The opinions matched).

互換性 vs 連動

Both involve things working together.

連動 is 'linking' or 'coordinated movement'; 互換性 is 'interchangeability'.

カレンダーと連動する (Link with the calendar).

互換性 vs 代用

Both involve using one thing for another.

代用 is 'substitution' (often temporary); 互換性 is the inherent property that allows substitution.

砂糖の代用に蜂蜜を使う (Use honey as a substitute for sugar).

Satzmuster

[A] は [B] と互換性があります。

この電池はあのカメラと互換性があります。

互換性がないので、[Verb-Potential Negative]。

互換性がないので、このソフトは使えません。

互換性を確認するために、[Verb]。

互換性を確認するために、マニュアルを読みます。

[Noun] との互換性を維持しつつ、[Verb]。

旧モデルとの互換性を維持しつつ、新機能を導入する。

互換性の有無を[Verb]。

互換性の有無を事前に調査する。

互換性を担保すべく、[Verb]。

互換性を担保すべく、共通規格を採用した。

互換性の欠如が[Noun]を招く。

互換性の欠如が混乱を招く結果となった。

～との互換性を図る。

国際基準との互換性を図る取り組み。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

互換 (Gokan) - Replacement/Exchange

互換機 (Gokanki) - Compatible machine/clone

Verben

互換する (Gokan suru) - To exchange/replace (rarely used alone)

Adjektive

互換性のある (Gokansei no aru) - Compatible

Verwandt

適合 (Tekigou)

相性 (Aishou)

一致 (Icchi)

変換 (Henkan)

共通 (Kyuutuu)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely frequent in IT, retail, and manufacturing.

Häufige Fehler

Using 互換性 for romantic partners. → 相性 (Aishou)
互換性 is for technical parts and systems. Using it for people sounds robotic.
Aに互換性がある → Aと互換性がある
The particle 'to' (with) is used to show the relationship between two compatible things.
Saying '互換性する' → 互換性がある
互換性 is a noun, not a suru-verb. You must use 'がある' or 'を持つ'.
Confusing 互換性 with 可能性 (Kanousei). → 互換性 (Gokansei)
They sound similar but 可能性 means 'possibility'.
Dropping the '性' when it's the main noun. → 互換性が必要です
While '互換' works in compounds, as a standalone subject/object, '性' is required.

Tipps

Look for the Kanji

When buying electronics in Japan, look for '互換' on the label to find cheaper, third-party alternatives to brand-name products.

Particle Choice

Always use the particle 'と' (to) when specifying what something is compatible with. E.g., 'Aと互換性がある'.

Don't confuse with Aishou

Never use 互換性 for people. It makes you sound like you're talking about robots. Use 相性 (Aishou) for human chemistry.

Formal Verbs

In a business setting, use '確保する' (ensure) or '維持する' (maintain) with 互換性 to sound professional.

Backward Compatibility

Memorize '下位互換' (kai-gokan). It's a very common term in the gaming and software industries in Japan.

Kanji Meaning

Remember: 互 (Mutual) + 換 (Exchange) + 性 (Nature). This helps you remember the meaning: 'Mutual-Exchange-Nature'.

Galapagos Syndrome

Understanding that Japan struggled with 'Gokansei' globally helps you understand why this word is so important in Japanese news.

Compound Nouns

You can drop the '性' in compound nouns like '互換インク' or '互換部品' to sound more natural.

Flat Pitch

Practice saying 'Go-kan-sei' without any emphasis. Japanese technical terms often follow this flat pitch pattern.

Nasal 'n'

Pay attention to the 'ん' in 'Gokan'. It's a slight nasal sound that connects 'ka' and 'se'.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

GO (Go) and KAN (Can) work together? YES! SEI (Say) it's compatible. 'Go-Kan-Sei'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine two puzzle pieces with the letters 'GO' and 'KAN' perfectly clicking together.

Word Web

Software Hardware USB Standard Backward Forward Clone Plugin

Herausforderung

Go to a Japanese electronics website (like Amazon.co.jp) and search for '互換' to see how many third-party products use this word.

Wortherkunft

Composed of Sino-Japanese roots. 'Go' (互) means mutual, 'Kan' (換) means exchange, and 'Sei' (性) means nature or property. It was likely coined or popularized in the late 19th or early 20th century as Japan modernized and translated Western technical concepts.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The property of being mutually exchangeable.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Kultureller Kontext

No specific sensitivities, but be careful not to use it for human relationships as it can sound dehumanizing.

English speakers use 'compatibility' for both people and machines, but Japanese splits this into 'Aishou' (people) and 'Gokansei' (machines).

The 'IBM PC Gokan-ki' (IBM PC Clones) era in Japan. The debate over 'Famicom' vs 'Nintendo Entertainment System' regional compatibility. USB-C standardization news in Japanese media.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Buying computer parts

マザーボードとの互換性
互換リスト
動作確認済み
ソケットの互換性

Software updates

旧バージョンとの互換性
互換モード
アップデート後の不具合
データ移行

Manufacturing/Engineering

部品の共通化
ネジの互換性
規格の統一
設計変更

Video Games

過去作との互換性
リマスター版
エミュレーター
セーブデータの引き継ぎ

Business Meetings

システム統合
互換性の欠如
コスト削減
標準プロトコル

Gesprächseinstiege

"新しいiPhone、古いケーブルと互換性あるのかな？"

"このアプリ、Androidの最新バージョンと互換性がないみたい。"

"仕事のシステムが新しくなったけど、古いファイルとの互換性が心配だね。"

"互換インクって使ったことある？プリンター壊れないかな？"

"PS5でPS4のゲームができるのは、下位互換性のおかげだよね。"

Tagebuch-Impulse

最近買ったガジェットで、互換性がなくて困ったことはありますか？

なぜ多くの企業は、独自の規格（互換性のないもの）を作りたがるのだと思いますか？

日本の「ガラパゴス化」についてどう思いますか？互換性は重要だと思いますか？

あなたが使っているソフトウェアで、一番互換性が高いと感じるものは何ですか？

将来、すべてのデバイスが完全な互換性を持つようになると思いますか？

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, you can say '血液型の互換性,' but doctors often use '適合性' (suitability) to describe if a transfusion will work. In daily life, 'Gokansei' is understood but sounds a bit technical.

They both mean backward compatibility. '下位互換' (kai-gokan) is more common in technical specs, while '後方互換' (kouhou-gokan) is also used but slightly less frequent in consumer marketing.

It is a casual abbreviation used mainly by engineers or tech geeks. It's not rude, but avoid it in formal business emails.

You can say 'マルチプラットフォーム互換性' or 'クロスプラットフォーム互換性'.

No. For food pairings, use '相性' (Aishou). For example, 'ワインとチーズの相性' (The compatibility of wine and cheese).

No, you can also use '互換性を持つ' (to possess compatibility) or '互換性を備える' (to be equipped with compatibility) in formal writing.

It refers to third-party printer ink cartridges that are designed to work with a specific printer brand but are not made by that brand.

The noun '互換' can be combined with 'する' (互換する), but it's rarely used to mean 'is compatible.' It usually means 'to exchange' in a mathematical or technical sense.

You can say: 'これは[Item name]と互換性がありますか？' (Is this compatible with [Item name]?).

Usually, yes, but sometimes people say '部分的な互換性' (partial compatibility) if only some features work.

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