Esta página en tu idioma
English فارسی العربية Deutsch Français 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
B2 na-adjective #3,500 más común 7 min de lectura

過剰

kajou
Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos 過剰 en 30 segundos
Explicación 過剰 in your Level:
At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '過剰' (kajō) very often, but it is helpful to understand that Japanese has a special word for 'too much.' Think of it like the English word 'excess.' In simple terms, when you have more of something than you need—like too much sugar in your tea or too many toys in your room—you can use this word. For now, just remember that the first character '過' means 'to pass' or 'too much,' and the second character '剰' means 'leftover.' If you see this word on a food label, it usually means there is a lot of something, like salt or fat, and you should be careful. You might hear people say 'kajō' when they are talking about something being 'too much' in a slightly more serious way than just saying 'takusan' (many).
Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa
At the A2 level, you can start recognizing '過剰' (kajō) in daily life, especially in warnings or health-related topics. You might see it in phrases like 'sugar excess' or 'salt excess' on TV programs about health. Grammatically, it is a 'na-adjective.' This means if you want to describe a noun, you add 'na' after it, like 'kajō na sato' (excessive sugar). However, you will more commonly see it as part of a compound word. For example, 'jishin' means 'confidence,' so 'jishin-kajō' means 'overconfident.' If you have a friend who is too sure of themselves, you could use this word. It's a step up from the basic '-sugiru' grammar point. While 'tabesugiru' means 'to eat too much,' 'kajō' is used more for the quantity itself.
Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa
At the B1 level, you should begin using '過剰' (kajō) to express more complex ideas, especially in writing. This word is very useful for discussing social issues or business. For example, if you are talking about the environment, you can use the phrase 'kajō-hōsō,' which means 'excessive packaging.' This is a big topic in Japan because many products are wrapped in multiple layers of plastic. In a business setting, you might talk about 'kajō-zaiko' (excessive inventory), which is a problem for companies. You should also learn the adverbial form, 'kajō ni.' This is used when an action is done excessively. For example, 'kajō ni shinpai suru' means 'to worry excessively.' Using 'kajō' instead of 'sugiru' makes your Japanese sound more mature and professional.
Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa
At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the nuance of '過剰' (kajō) compared to similar words like 'yobun' (extra) or 'yokei' (unnecessary). 'Kajō' carries a nuance that the excess is objectively too much and potentially negative. It is often used in psychological contexts, such as 'jiishiki-kajō' (excessive self-consciousness), which describes someone who is overly worried about how they appear to others. You will also encounter it in economic news, discussing 'supply excess' (kyōkyū-kajō) or 'liquidity excess.' At this level, you should be able to use it fluently in both its 'na-adjective' form and its noun-compound form. You should also be aware of its use in describing 'over-service' in the Japanese hospitality industry, where the level of attention might be deemed 'excessive' by some.
At the C1 level, '過剰' (kajō) becomes a tool for precise analysis. You will encounter it in academic papers, legal documents, and high-level literature. It is used to describe systemic imbalances. For instance, in medical contexts, 'men'eki-kajō' (overactive immune system) refers to autoimmune responses. In political science, it might describe 'kajō na kenryoku' (excessive power). You should be able to distinguish between 'kajō' and 'hanran' (overflow/inundation). While 'kajō' is a quantitative excess, 'hanran' suggests a state of being overwhelmed by that excess. You should also be comfortable with idiomatic uses and understand how the word functions in formal critiques of society, such as the 'over-socialization' or 'over-regulation' of modern life. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's cold, objective, and often critical tone.
Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa
At the C2 level, your mastery of '過剰' (kajō) involves recognizing its subtle rhetorical uses. You understand how it can be used to pathologize normal behavior in a clinical sense or how it can be used ironically in literary contexts. You are aware of the historical development of the term and its kanji roots. You can engage in deep discussions about the 'kajō' of modern information (jōhō-kajō) and its effects on human cognition. You can use the word to describe complex philosophical concepts, such as an 'excess of being' or 'excess of meaning.' At this level, you don't just use the word; you understand its weight in the Japanese linguistic landscape as a marker of a culture that values 'wa' (harmony) and 'chūdō' (the middle way), and thus views any 'kajō' as a significant disruption of the natural or social order.
Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa
Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

過剰 en 30 segundos

  • 過剰 (kajō) means 'excess' or 'too much' of something, often implying it is unnecessary or harmful.
  • It is a na-adjective (過剰な) and can also form compound nouns like 自信過剰 (overconfidence).
  • Commonly used in health (excess salt), business (overstock), and psychology (overreaction).
  • Unlike the casual '-sugiru', kajō sounds more formal, objective, and analytical.

The Japanese word 過剰 (かじょう - kajō) is a versatile and essential term that translates to 'excess,' 'surplus,' or 'overabundance.' While beginners might use simple modifiers like 'takusan' (a lot) or the verb suffix '-sugiru' (to do too much), kajō allows for a more formal, precise, and often analytical description of quantity and behavior. It is categorized as a na-adjective, meaning it often precedes nouns with the particle 'na' or functions as a noun itself in compound words.

Physical Quantities
It is frequently used in scientific or health contexts to describe an intake or presence of substances that exceeds safety or necessity, such as salt, sugar, or inventory.

現代人は塩分を過剰に摂取しがちです。
(Modern people tend to consume an excess of salt.)

Emotional and Mental States
Kajō is also applied to abstract concepts like worry, confidence, or self-consciousness. It suggests that the level of emotion is disproportionate to the situation.

In the business world, you will hear this word regarding 在庫過剰 (zaiko kajō), which means overstock or excessive inventory. This is a critical term for supply chain management. In social settings, someone might be described as 自意識過剰 (jiishiki kajō), meaning they are excessively self-conscious or think everyone is looking at them. This nuance of 'crossing a line' into unnecessary territory is what defines the word.

その演出は少し過剰だったかもしれない。
(That performance/direction might have been a bit excessive.)

Environmental Context
In environmental discussions, kajō-hōsō (excessive packaging) is a common topic in Japan, referring to the many layers of plastic and paper used for simple items.

Ultimately, kajō is not just about 'a lot'; it is about 'too much.' It carries a weight of judgment, suggesting that the balance has been lost. Whether it is 過剰なサービス (kajō na sābisu)—service that is so attentive it becomes annoying—or 過剰な期待 (kajō na kitai)—expectations that are too high to meet—the word warns us of the lack of moderation.

Understanding the grammatical flexibility of 過剰 is key to using it naturally. It primarily functions in three ways: as a noun in compounds, as a na-adjective modifying a noun, and as an adverb with 'ni'.

Pattern 1: [Noun] + 過剰
This is the most common usage in formal and technical Japanese. You combine a noun directly with kajō to create a new concept. Examples include 供給過剰 (kyōkyū kajō - oversupply) and 自信過剰 (jishin kajō - overconfidence).

彼は自信過剰で失敗した。
(He failed because of overconfidence.)

Pattern 2: 過剰な + [Noun]
Use this when you want to describe a specific noun as being excessive. It acts like a standard adjective. Common pairings include 過剰な反応 (kajō na hannō - overreaction) and 過剰な包装 (kajō na hōsō - excessive packaging).

過剰なストレスは体に毒です。
(Excessive stress is poison to the body.)

Pattern 3: 過剰に + [Verb/Adjective]
When you want to describe an action being done to an excessive degree, use the adverbial form 'ni'. This is perfect for describing behaviors like 'over-worrying' or 'over-reacting'.

将来のことを過剰に心配する必要はない。
(There is no need to worry excessively about the future.)

In formal writing, such as news reports or academic papers, you will see 過剰 used to describe systemic issues. For example, 過剰流動性 (kajō ryūdōsei) refers to excess liquidity in the market. Mastering these patterns allows you to discuss complex topics in economy, psychology, and health with the precision expected of a B2-level speaker.

If you live in Japan or consume Japanese media, you will encounter 過剰 in several specific, high-frequency contexts. It is not just a textbook word; it is a word of daily observation and social commentary.

In the News: Economics and Health
News anchors often use kajō when reporting on market surpluses or health crises. You will hear about エネルギーの過剰摂取 (energy-no kajō sesshu)—over-consumption of calories—especially in documentaries about modern lifestyle diseases.

市場では野菜が供給過剰となり、価格が下落しています。
(Vegetables are in oversupply in the market, and prices are falling.)

In Anime and Manga: Personality Tropes
Characters are often described as 自意識過剰 (jiishiki kajō). This is a classic trope for the protagonist who thinks everyone is looking at them or for a character who over-interprets a small gesture as a sign of love. It is a comedic way to highlight someone's social anxiety or ego.

In workplace settings, the word appears in discussions about efficiency. Managers might worry about 過剰在庫 (kajō zaiko) or 過剰な人員 (kajō na jin'in)—having too many staff members for a task. On the other hand, employees might complain about 過剰な期待 (kajō na kitai) from their bosses, feeling the pressure of unrealistic goals.

そんなに過剰に反応しなくてもいいじゃないか。
(You don't have to react so excessively, you know?)

Customer Service
There is a debate in Japan about 過剰サービス (kajō sābisu). Some customers find the constant bowing and scripted greetings in department stores to be 'too much,' and you might see this discussed in opinion pieces about changing social norms.

While 過剰 is a powerful word, English speakers often trip up on its nuance and grammatical placement. Here are the most frequent pitfalls to avoid.

Mistake 1: Using it for 'Positive' Abundance
In English, 'excess' can sometimes be neutral, but in Japanese, kajō almost always implies that the amount is problematic or unnecessary. You wouldn't use it to say you have 'an excess of happiness' unless you mean that happiness is causing a problem.

Incorrect: 幸せが過剰です。
Correct: 幸せでいっぱいです。
(Use 'ippai' for a positive full feeling.)

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Ōsugiru'
While 'kajō' and 'ōsugiru' (too many) overlap, 'ōsugiru' is more common for physical objects in casual conversation. 'Kajō' is used for abstract concepts or formal data. Saying 'ringo ga kajō' (apples are excessive) sounds like a scientific report on apple production rather than just having too many apples in your fridge.
Mistake 3: Forgetting the Particle 'Na'
Because 'kajō' looks like a noun (and can be one), learners often forget to add 'na' when modifying a noun. It is 'kajō na hannō', not 'kajō hannō' (unless it's a established compound word).

Incorrect: 過剰期待
Correct: 過剰な期待
(Always check if a word is an established compound before dropping 'na'.)

Finally, be careful with 過分 (kabun). While it also means excessive, it is almost exclusively used in formal humble speech to mean 'more than I deserve' (e.g., 'kabun na o-kotoba' - your words are too kind). Kajō is objective; kabun is social/polite.

To truly master 過剰, you must see how it sits alongside its synonyms. Each has a slightly different shade of meaning.

余計 (Yokei)
Focuses on things that are 'extra' or 'uncalled for.' While kajō is about quantity, yokei is often about interference. 'Yokei na osewa' (unwanted meddling) is a common phrase.
余分 (Yobun)
Refers to a 'spare' or 'surplus' amount that is left over. It is less negative than kajō. You might buy 'yobun' of some food just in case, whereas 'kajō' would mean you bought way too much and it's going to waste.

Comparison:
1. 過剰な塩分 (Excessive salt - harmful)
2. 余分な塩分 (Surplus salt - just extra amount)

超過 (Chōka)
Specifically means 'exceeding a limit.' It is used for weight limits on planes or time limits. Kajō is the state of being too much; chōka is the act of going over the line.

Another interesting alternative is 氾濫 (hanran). While it literally means 'flooding,' it is used metaphorically for an 'overflow' of information (jōhō no hanran). While kajō suggests a measurable excess, hanran suggests a chaotic, overwhelming flood of things. Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to sound like a scientist (kajō), a neighbor (yokei), or a poet (hanran).

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The kanji '剰' (jō) contains the radical for 'knife' (刂) on the right. Historically, it related to the idea of carving out or setting aside the 'extra' pieces of something.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /kə.dʒoʊ/
US /kɑ.dʒoʊ/
In Japanese (pitch accent), 過剰 usually has a 'Heiban' (flat) accent, meaning the pitch starts low and stays high.
Rima con
異常 (ijō - abnormal) 同情 (dōjō - sympathy) 表情 (hyōjō - expression) 会場 (kaijō - venue) 工場 (kōjō - factory) 屋上 (okujō - rooftop) 友情 (yūjō - friendship) 症状 (shōjō - symptom)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing it as 'kajo' (short o) instead of 'kajō' (long o).
  • Confusing the 'j' sound with 'z' (kazō).
  • Using English-style stress on the first syllable.
  • Not holding the long vowel long enough.
  • Mixing up the kanji readings.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 4/5

Kanji are N2 level, but the word is common in media.

Escritura 5/5

The second kanji '剰' is tricky to write by hand.

Expresión oral 3/5

Pronunciation is simple, but pitch accent matters.

Escucha 3/5

Easy to hear, but can be confused with 'kajo' (family/item).

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

多い (ooi) 過ぎる (sugiru) 残る (nokoru) 必要 (hitsuyō) 十分 (jūbun)

Aprende después

過度 (kado) 超過 (chōka) 余分 (yobun) 不足 (fusoku) 欠乏 (ketsubō)

Avanzado

飽和 (hōwa - saturation) 氾濫 (hanran - flood/overflow) 累積 (ruiseki - accumulation) 過失 (kashitsu - negligence) 過酷 (kakoku - harsh)

Gramática que debes saber

Na-Adjective Modification

過剰な (kajō na) + Noun

Adverbial 'ni'

過剰に (kajō ni) + Verb/Adjective

Noun Compounds

Noun + 過剰 (e.g., 自信過剰)

The '-sugiru' Verb Ending

食べすぎる (tabesugiru) vs 過剰な食事 (kajō na shokuji)

Negative Potential with 'Kajō'

過剰すぎて〜できない (Too excessive to...)

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

Ejemplos por nivel

1

砂糖の過剰は体に悪いです。

Excess of sugar is bad for the body.

過剰 (kajō) is used here as a noun meaning 'excess'.

2

塩を過剰に入れないでください。

Please don't put in an excess of salt.

過剰 (kajō) is used here to mean an excessive amount.

3

このおもちゃは過剰です。

These toys are excessive (too many).

Using 'excessive' to describe a quantity of objects.

4

過剰な食べ物は捨てないで。

Don't throw away excessive (surplus) food.

過剰な (kajō na) modifies the noun 'food'.

5

ビタミンの過剰摂取に注意。

Be careful of excessive intake of vitamins.

過剰摂取 (kajō sesshu) is a common compound word.

6

彼は自信過剰です。

He is overconfident.

自信過剰 (jishin kajō) is a very common set phrase.

7

水が過剰にあります。

There is an excess of water.

過剰に (kajō ni) functions here as an adverbial phrase.

8

過剰な包装はいりません。

I don't need excessive packaging.

過剰な (kajō na) is a na-adjective modifying 'packaging'.

1

この料理は脂質が過剰だ。

This dish has an excess of fat.

Using 'kajō' to describe nutritional content.

2

過剰な期待はしないでください。

Please don't have excessive expectations.

Describes abstract expectations.

3

在庫が過剰になっています。

The inventory has become excessive (overstocked).

Common business usage for stock.

4

彼は自意識過剰なところがある。

He is a bit excessively self-conscious.

Describes a personality trait.

5

エネルギーを過剰に消費する。

To consume energy excessively.

Adverbial use describing consumption.

6

過剰なサービスは逆効果だ。

Excessive service has the opposite effect.

Discussing social interactions/service.

7

冬は水分を過剰に摂りすぎるな。

Don't take in too much water in winter.

Note: 'Kajō ni' plus '-sugiru' is redundant but sometimes used for emphasis.

8

店の電気が過剰に明るい。

The store's lights are excessively bright.

Using 'kajō ni' to modify an adjective.

1

日本の過剰包装は問題視されている。

Japan's excessive packaging is being seen as a problem.

Discussing environmental issues.

2

些細なことに過剰に反応してしまう。

I end up overreacting to trivial things.

過剰に反応 (kajō ni hannō) means 'to overreact'.

3

供給過剰で野菜の値段が下がった。

Due to oversupply, vegetable prices went down.

Economic term: 供給過剰 (oversupply).

4

過剰なダイエットは健康を害する。

Excessive dieting harms your health.

Describing an activity as excessive.

5

彼は自分を過剰に評価している。

He evaluates himself excessively (he overestimates himself).

Self-evaluation context.

6

都会は情報が過剰で疲れる。

The city is tiring because there is an excess of information.

Abstract noun: 情報 (information).

7

過剰な演出が映画の質を下げた。

The excessive direction/production lowered the quality of the movie.

Critique of artistic style.

8

その薬は過剰に投与された。

That medicine was administered in excess.

Passive voice with adverbial use.

1

市場の過剰な流動性が懸念されている。

The excessive liquidity in the market is being concerned.

Financial context: 過剰な流動性 (excessive liquidity).

2

過剰な防衛本能が彼を孤独にした。

An excessive defense instinct made him lonely.

Psychological context: 過剰な防衛本能.

3

政府の過剰な介入は自由を奪う。

Excessive government intervention robs freedom.

Political context: 過剰な介入.

4

彼は過剰に潔癖なところがある。

He is excessively fastidious (a neat freak).

Character trait: 潔癖 (fastidious).

5

過剰な労働が社会問題となっている。

Excessive labor has become a social problem.

Social issue: 過剰な労働.

6

その発言は過剰に解釈された。

That statement was over-interpreted.

Passive voice: 過剰に解釈される.

7

人口過剰による食糧不足が心配だ。

I am worried about food shortages due to overpopulation.

Compound: 人口過剰 (overpopulation).

8

過剰な装飾を省いてシンプルにする。

Omit excessive decorations to make it simple.

Design context: 過剰な装飾.

1

免疫系の過剰反応がアレルギーを引き起こす。

The immune system's overreaction causes allergies.

Medical context: 免疫系の過剰反応.

2

近代化は過剰な標準化をもたらした。

Modernization brought about excessive standardization.

Sociological critique.

3

彼は言葉の過剰に溺れている。

He is drowning in an excess of words.

Metaphorical/Literary usage.

4

過剰なコンプライアンスが創造性を削ぐ。

Excessive compliance (rule-following) stifles creativity.

Corporate/Legal context.

5

その建築は過剰なまでの存在感を放つ。

That architecture exudes an almost excessive presence.

Using 'made mo' to emphasize the degree.

6

自己愛が過剰になると、他者を傷つける。

When self-love becomes excessive, it hurts others.

Ethics/Psychology context.

7

情報の過剰な蓄積が判断を鈍らせる。

The excessive accumulation of information dulls judgment.

Cognitive context.

8

過剰なまでの親切心がかえって負担だ。

Kindness to an excessive degree is actually a burden.

Social nuance.

1

資本主義の過剰な膨張は限界に達した。

The excessive expansion of capitalism has reached its limit.

Macroeconomic/Political philosophy.

2

意味の過剰が、テクストを解体する。

An excess of meaning deconstructs the text.

Literary theory/Post-structuralism.

3

過剰な自意識は、実存の不安を加速させる。

Excessive self-consciousness accelerates existential anxiety.

Philosophy/Existentialism.

4

過剰なエネルギーを芸術へと昇華させる。

To sublimate excessive energy into art.

Psychological/Artistic process.

5

その文体は、過剰なまでの修辞に彩られている。

That writing style is colored with an almost excessive amount of rhetoric.

Advanced literary criticism.

6

生産過剰による恐慌の歴史を振り返る。

Looking back at the history of panics caused by overproduction.

Historical/Economic analysis.

7

過剰なまでの適応は、個性を抹殺する。

Over-adaptation to the point of excess obliterates individuality.

Sociological/Psychological critique.

8

宇宙の過剰な広大さに、畏怖を覚える。

I feel awe at the excessive vastness of the universe.

Sublime/Philosophical context.

Sinónimos

余分な 過度な 行き過ぎた 多すぎる

Antónimos

不足 過少 欠乏

Colocaciones comunes

過剰な反応
過剰な包装
過剰な期待
過剰な摂取
過剰な介入
在庫過剰
自信過剰
自意識過剰
供給過剰
過剰に心配する

Frases Comunes

過剰防衛

— Excessive defense. Often used legally (excessive force) or psychologically.

それは正当防衛ではなく過剰防衛だ。

過剰サービス

— Over-service. Service that is so intense it might make the customer uncomfortable.

このホテルの過剰サービスには驚いた。

過剰流動性

— Excess liquidity. A situation where there is too much money circulating in the economy.

過剰流動性が株価を押し上げている。

過剰生産

— Overproduction. Producing more goods than the market demands.

過剰生産は資源の無駄遣いだ。

自意識過剰

— Excessive self-consciousness. Being overly aware of one's appearance or actions.

自意識過剰な自分を変えたい。

自信過剰

— Overconfidence. Having too much belief in one's own abilities.

自信過剰な態度は嫌われる。

摂取過剰

— Excessive intake. Usually referring to nutrients or chemicals.

塩分の摂取過剰に気をつける。

反応過剰

— Hyper-reactivity or overreaction. Used medically or behaviorally.

アレルギーは免疫の反応過剰だ。

過剰在庫

— Overstock. Having too much inventory on hand.

過剰在庫をセールで処分する。

過剰労働

— Excessive labor. Working far beyond healthy or legal limits.

過剰労働による過労死が問題だ。

Se confunde a menudo con

過剰 vs 家事 (kaji)

Sounds similar but means 'housework'. Pronunciation of the 'o' is key.

過剰 vs 過小 (kashō)

Sounds similar but means the exact opposite: 'too little' or 'underestimate'.

過剰 vs 過度 (kado)

Very similar in meaning (excessive degree), but 'kado' is used more for behaviors like 'excessive drinking'.

Modismos y expresiones

"過剰なまでの..."

— To an excessive degree. Used to emphasize that something goes beyond all normal bounds.

過剰なまでの情熱を持って取り組む。

Neutral/Formal
"過ぎたるは猶及ばざるが如し"

— Too much is as bad as too little. A famous proverb often used when discussing 過剰.

過剰な練習は逆効果だ。過ぎたるは猶及ばざるが如しだよ。

Formal/Literary
"自意識過剰に陥る"

— To fall into a state of excessive self-consciousness.

スピーチの時、自意識過剰に陥ってしまった。

Neutral
"過剰に反応する"

— To bite or react too strongly to something minor.

冗談に過剰に反応して怒り出した。

Neutral
"供給が需要を過剰に上回る"

— Supply excessively exceeds demand.

現在の市場では、供給が需要を過剰に上回っている。

Formal
"期待過剰"

— The state of having hopes that are way too high.

親の期待過剰が子供のプレッシャーになる。

Neutral
"過剰投資"

— Over-investment. Investing more than what will yield a reasonable return.

バブル期には過剰投資が行われた。

Formal
"演出過剰"

— Over-directed or over-produced (often for TV or movies).

このドラマは演出過剰でリアリティがない。

Neutral
"過剰適応"

— Over-adaptation. Trying so hard to fit in that it causes mental stress.

新しい職場での過剰適応で疲弊した。

Psychological
"情報過剰社会"

— An information-overloaded society.

情報過剰社会で正しい判断をするのは難しい。

Sociological

Fácil de confundir

過剰 vs 余分 (yobun)

Both mean 'extra'.

Yobun is just 'spare' or 'leftover' and often neutral. Kajō is 'excessive' and usually implies a negative imbalance.

余分なチケット (extra ticket) vs 過剰な在庫 (excessive stock).

過剰 vs 余計 (yokei)

Both can mean 'unnecessary'.

Yokei focuses on something being uncalled for or meddling. Kajō focuses on the quantity being too high.

余計なお世話 (unwanted help) vs 過剰な包装 (excessive packaging).

過剰 vs 超過 (chōka)

Both relate to 'too much'.

Chōka is the act of exceeding a specific limit (like a speed limit). Kajō is the state of having too much.

定員超過 (exceeding capacity) vs 人口過剰 (overpopulation).

過剰 vs 過多 (kata)

Both mean 'excess'.

Kata is more technical and used as a suffix in medicine or science. Kajō is more general and used as an adjective.

塩分過多 (excess salt) vs 過剰な反応 (overreaction).

過剰 vs 氾濫 (hanran)

Both mean 'overflow'.

Hanran implies a chaotic flood that overwhelms. Kajō is a more clinical measurement of excess.

情報の氾濫 (flood of info) vs 過剰な情報 (excessive info).

Patrones de oraciones

A2

[Noun]は過剰です。

砂糖は過剰です。

B1

過剰な[Noun]は[Negative Result]。

過剰な期待はプレッシャーになる。

B1

[Noun]を過剰に[Verb]。

塩分を過剰に摂取する。

B2

[Noun]過剰に陥る。

在庫過剰に陥る。

B2

[Noun]を過剰に評価する。

能力を過剰に評価する。

C1

過剰なまでの[Noun]。

過剰なまでの親切。

C1

[Noun]の過剰が[Verb]を引き起こす。

免疫の過剰が炎症を引き起こす。

C2

[Noun]という過剰。

存在という過剰。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

過剰 (kajō - excess)
剰余 (jōyo - surplus/remainder)
通過 (tsūka - passage)

Verbos

過ぎる (sugiru - to exceed/pass)
過ごす (sugosu - to spend time)
過つ (ayamatsu - to make a mistake)

Adjetivos

過剰な (kajō na - excessive)
過酷な (kakoku na - harsh/severe)

Relacionado

超過 (chōka - exceeding)
過度 (kado - excessive degree)
過失 (kashitsu - negligence)
過半数 (kahansū - majority)
過言 (kagon - exaggeration)
Regístrate gratis para ver todos los ejemplos

Cómo usarlo

frequency

High in written Japanese, news, and specific psychological/business contexts.

Errores comunes
  • Using 'kajō' for 'very happy'. → 幸せでいっぱいです (shiawase de ippai desu).

    Kajō is for negative or clinical excess, not positive abundance.

  • Saying 'kajō hannō' instead of 'kajō na hannō'. → 過剰な反応 (kajō na hannō).

    Kajō is a na-adjective and needs 'na' to modify a noun unless it's a compound.

  • Confusing 'kajō' with 'kashō'. → 過剰 (excess) vs 過小 (under).

    These sound similar but are opposites. Practice the 'j' and 'sh' sounds.

  • Using 'kajō' for 'too many people'. → 人が多すぎる (hito ga ōsugiru).

    Kajō is too formal for simple counting of people in casual talk.

  • Writing '剰' without the knife radical. → 過剰 (with 刂).

    The right side is '刂' (knife), which is essential for the meaning of 'surplus'.

Consejos

Formal Writing

Always use 'kajō' in essays or business emails instead of 'sugiru' to sound professional.

Compound Power

Learn 'kajō' as part of compounds like 'zaiko-kajō'. It's much more common than using it alone.

Negative Only

Avoid using 'kajō' for 'a lot of friends' or 'lots of money' unless you mean it's causing a problem.

Long Vowel

Stretch the 'o' sound. If you say it short, it sounds like 'kajo' which is a different word.

Self-Consciousness

Use 'jiishiki-kajō' to describe that feeling of everyone watching you in a crowd.

Eco-Tip

In Japan, say 'Hōsō wa kanryaku ni' to avoid 'kajō-hōsō' (excessive packaging).

Diet Advice

Look for 'kajō-sesshu' on health posters to know what foods to avoid in large amounts.

Inventory Control

If you work in retail, 'kajō-zaiko' is the word you'll use for things that aren't selling.

Overreaction

'Kajō-hannō' is a great word for when someone gets way too angry about a small joke.

Opposites Attract

Learn 'kajō' (too much) and 'fusoku' (too little) together as a pair.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a cup overflowing. The first kanji '過' (pass) shows the water passing the rim. The second kanji '剰' (surplus) is the extra water on the table. It's 'Kajō' - the 'passed surplus'.

Asociación visual

Imagine a warehouse so full of boxes that they are bursting out of the windows. Label the warehouse 'KAJO'.

Word Web

Excess Surplus Over- Too much Overstock Overreaction Overconfidence Unnecessary

Desafío

Try to find three things in your house that are 'kajō' (excessive). Is it the number of pens? The amount of clothes? Write them down using 'kajō na'.

Origen de la palabra

Borrowed from Middle Chinese. The compound consists of '過' (guò) meaning 'to pass' or 'exceed' and '剰' (shèng) meaning 'surplus' or 'remainder'.

Significado original: To exceed the remaining amount; a surplus that has gone beyond the boundary.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Contexto cultural

Be careful when calling someone 'jishin-kajō' (overconfident) as it is a direct criticism of their character.

In English, 'excess' can be positive (e.g., 'excess of joy'), but in Japanese, 'kajō' is almost always critical or clinical.

The term 'jiishiki-kajō' is a central theme in Osamu Dazai's literature, describing the internal struggle of the individual. Eco-campaigns in Japan often use the slogan 'Kajō-hōsō wo nakusō' (Let's eliminate excessive packaging). Health PSAs frequently warn against 'enbun-kajō' (salt excess) in the Japanese diet.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Health and Diet

  • 塩分の過剰摂取
  • 糖分過剰
  • カロリー過剰
  • 栄養過剰

Business and Economy

  • 在庫過剰の処分
  • 供給過剰な市場
  • 過剰投資の抑制
  • 過剰な人員削減

Psychology and Personality

  • 自意識過剰を直す
  • 自信過剰な態度
  • 過剰なストレス
  • 過剰反応を抑える

Environment

  • 過剰包装の廃止
  • 資源の過剰消費
  • 過剰な照明
  • 過剰な冷暖房

Legal and Rules

  • 過剰防衛の認定
  • 過剰な規制
  • 過剰なノルマ
  • 過剰な警備

Inicios de conversación

"日本の過剰包装についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about Japan's excessive packaging?)"

"最近、何かを過剰に買ってしまったことはありますか？ (Have you excessively bought anything recently?)"

"自意識過剰になってしまう瞬間はありますか？ (Are there moments when you become excessively self-conscious?)"

"現代社会は情報が過剰だと思いませんか？ (Don't you think modern society has an excess of information?)"

"自信過剰な人とどう接すればいいでしょうか？ (How should one deal with an overconfident person?)"

Temas para diario

自分の中に「過剰」だと思う部分はありますか？（心配性、自信、など） (Is there a part of yourself you think is 'excessive'? e.g., worrying, confidence.)

最近のニュースで「供給過剰」や「過剰な反応」だと思ったことを書きましょう。 (Write about something in the news recently you thought was 'oversupply' or an 'overreaction'.)

過剰なサービスは、客にとって本当に良いことでしょうか？ (Is excessive service really a good thing for customers?)

スマホの使いすぎ（過剰な使用）をどうやって防いでいますか？ (How do you prevent excessive use of your smartphone?)

「過ぎたるは猶及ばざるが如し」という言葉について、自分の経験を書きましょう。 (Write about your experience regarding the phrase 'Too much is as bad as too little'.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Generally, no. In Japanese, 'kajō' carries a negative nuance of being 'too much' or 'unbalanced.' If you have a lot of something good, use 'takusan' or 'yutaka' (abundant).

'Sugiru' is a verb ending (suffix) used in casual speech (e.g., tabesugiru). 'Kajō' is a formal noun/adjective used for abstract concepts or technical data.

Not necessarily an insult, but it is a criticism. It means someone is overly self-conscious or thinks too much about themselves, which is seen as a social weakness.

The first kanji is '過' (pass/exceed) and the second is '剰' (surplus). Be careful with '剰', which has 11 strokes and a 'knife' radical on the right.

Use 'kajō na' before a noun (e.g., kajō na sato - excessive sugar). Use 'kajō ni' before a verb or adjective (e.g., kajō ni taberu - to eat excessively).

Yes, '過剰防衛' (kajō bōei) is the legal term for 'excessive defense' or 'excessive force'.

It refers to 'excessive packaging,' a common critique of Japanese retail where items are wrapped in many unnecessary layers.

Yes, but usually for their traits, like 'jishin-kajō' (overconfident) or 'jiishiki-kajō' (self-conscious).

In standard Hepburn romanization, it is 'kajō'. Some systems might use 'kajou', but 'kajō' represents the long 'o' correctly.

The most common opposite is '不足' (fusoku), meaning shortage or lack.

Regístrate gratis para ver consejos y notas

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using '過剰な包装'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe an 'overconfident' person using '自信過剰'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Excessive salt is bad for health.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use '過剰に' to say 'Don't worry too much.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write about 'overstock' using '過剰在庫'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I overreacted to his joke.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe 'self-consciousness' using '自意識過剰'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Oversupply leads to lower prices.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about 'excessive stress'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Excessive service is unnecessary.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use '過剰摂取' in a sentence about sugar.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'He is excessively fastidious.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write about 'overproduction' in a factory.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Don't have excessive expectations.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use '過剰なまでの' for emphasis.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Excessive labor is a social problem.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a medical sentence about 'overreaction'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Cut out the excessive decorations.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write about 'information overload'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Excessive force was used.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Use '過剰な' to describe something you saw today.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Tell a friend not to overreact using '過剰に'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss 'overconfidence' using '自信過剰'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Complain about packaging using '過剰包装'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'self-consciousness' using '自意識過剰'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Give health advice using '過剰摂取'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'overstock' in a shop.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Express worry about 'overpopulation'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Critique a movie's special effects using '過剰な'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Tell someone they are worrying too much.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss 'over-service' in hotels.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'oversupply' of vegetables.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Use '過剰なまでの' to praise someone's effort.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'excessive labor' in your country.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss 'information overload'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'excessive dieting'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss 'excessive stress'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Tell someone they over-interpreted something.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about 'excessive compliance'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Use '過剰' to describe a brightly lit room.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A person says: 'Kore, hōsō ga kajō ja nai?'. What are they talking about?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A news anchor says: 'Kyōkyū-kajō de yasai no nedan ga sagatte imasu.' Why are prices down?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A doctor says: 'Sato no kajō-sesshu ni chuui shite kudasai.' What is the warning?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Someone says: 'Kare wa jishin-kajō da kara ne.' What is the person's personality?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A boss says: 'Zaiko-kajō wo fusegu tame ni chuumon wo herashite.' What should be done?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A friend says: 'Sonna ni kajō ni hannō shinakute mo...' What are they suggesting?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A narrator says: 'Jiishiki-kajō na shujinkō wa...' Who is the story about?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A legal expert says: 'Kore wa kajō-bōei ni atarimasu.' What is the verdict?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

An environmentalist says: 'Kajō-shōhi wo yameyou.' What should we stop?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A teacher says: 'Kajō na kitai wa kinmotsu desu.' What is forbidden?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A scientist says: 'Men'eki-kei no kajō-hannō desu.' What is happening?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Someone complains: 'Kajō-sābisu de ochitsukanai.' Why are they restless?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A reporter says: 'Kajō-rōdō ga karōshi wo maneite imasu.' What is the result of excessive labor?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A critic says: 'Enshutsu ga kajō de riariti ga nai.' Why lacks reality?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

A speaker says: 'Jōhō-kajō na shakai de wa...' What kind of society are they describing?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

Regístrate gratis para practicar

Contenido relacionado

¿Te ha servido?

Comentarios (0)

Inicia Sesión para Comentar
¡No hay comentarios todavía. Sé el primero en compartir tus ideas!