At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '普及する' (fukyuu suru) yourself, but you might see it in simple texts about technology. Think of it as a fancy way to say 'many people use it.' For example, if you see 'Smartphones 普及する,' it just means 'Everyone has a smartphone now.' At this stage, focus on the fact that 'fukyuu' is about things like computers, the internet, or phones becoming common. You can remember it by thinking of 'Popular' but for things you use every day. Don't worry about the grammar too much yet; just recognize that it means something is everywhere. In A1, you mostly learn 'suki' (like) or 'ninki' (popular), but '普及する' is the more 'adult' or 'news' version of those words. If your teacher says 'The internet 普及した,' they mean the internet is now in every home. It's a very useful word because Japan loves to talk about new technology! You will see it on signs or in very basic news for students. Just remember: 普及 = Spread to everyone.
At the A2 level, you can start to use '普及する' to talk about basic changes in life. You might say 'Computers 普及しました' to explain that computers are now common. You are learning the 'Suru-verb' patterns, so you know that '普及' + 'する' makes it an action. At this level, you should notice that we use the particle 'ga' with it: 'A ga 普及する.' This means 'A spreads.' You can use it to talk about your hobbies or tools. For example, 'In my country, soccer is 普及している' (Soccer is widespread/popular). It is a step up from 'ninki' (popular). While 'ninki' means people like it, '普及' means people actually have it or do it. If a new app is 'ninki,' many people like it. If it is '普及した,' it means everyone has downloaded it and uses it daily. This is a great word to use when you are describing your home country to Japanese friends. You can talk about what kind of foods or technologies are '普及' there. It makes your Japanese sound more professional and precise than just using 'ninki' for everything.
At the B1 level, you are expected to use '普及する' (fukyuu suru) correctly in discussions about society, technology, and environment. This is the level where you distinguish between '流行する' (ryuukou suru - to be trendy) and '普及する' (to become widespread). You should use '普及する' when discussing things like renewable energy, cashless payments, or remote work. You can also start using adverbs to describe the spread, such as '急速に普及する' (spread rapidly) or '徐々に普及する' (spread gradually). At B1, you should also understand the noun form '普及' and how it's used in compound words like '普及率' (diffusion rate/penetration rate). For example, 'Japan's smartphone 普及率 is very high.' You are moving beyond simple sentences and starting to explain *why* things spread. 'Because it is convenient, it 普及した.' This word is a key part of the 'Social Issues' and 'Technology' themes often found in JLPT N3 and N2 exams, which correspond to the B1 level. You should be able to recognize it in news articles and use it to describe trends in your own country during a speech or presentation.
At the B2 level, you should be able to use '普及する' with nuance and in more complex grammatical structures. This includes using the causative form '普及させる' (to popularize/to disseminate) to describe actions taken by governments or organizations. For example, 'The government is promoting policies to 普及させる electric vehicles.' You should also be comfortable using it in the potential form '普及しうる' (has the potential to spread) and the conditional forms. At this level, you can use '普及する' to discuss not just physical objects, but also systems, concepts, and cultural practices. You will encounter it in academic texts and editorial pieces. You should also be able to distinguish it from '浸透する' (to permeate/to be deeply accepted). While '普及' might describe the number of people using a service, '浸透' describes how deeply that service's philosophy has been accepted by society. Your usage should reflect an understanding of '普及' as a marker of societal modernization and standardization. You might use it in a debate about the pros and cons of certain technologies spreading too quickly, or in a business report analyzing market trends.
At the C1 level, your use of '普及する' should be sophisticated and contextually precise. You are expected to understand its role in historical analysis, sociological discourse, and high-level business strategy. You might discuss the '普及のプロセス' (process of dissemination) and how it relates to 'イノベーションの普及' (diffusion of innovations). You should be able to use the word in formal writing (kaho-tai) and recognize its use in classical-style modern Japanese. At this level, you can contrast '普及' with more technical terms like '伝播' (denpa - transmission) or '遍及' (henkyuu - reaching everywhere, though less common). You understand that '普及' often carries a connotation of 'democratization'—the idea that something once exclusive is now available to the masses. You can use it to discuss the ethical implications of certain technologies spreading, or the impact of '普及' on traditional cultures. Your vocabulary should also include related terms like '普及啓発' (fukyuu keihatsu - public awareness and promotion). You are not just using the word to describe a fact; you are using it to build a complex argument about societal evolution and global trends.
At the C2 level, '普及する' is a tool for precise expression in any professional or academic domain. You have a complete grasp of its collocations and can use it in highly formal speeches or published articles. You understand the subtle historical shifts in how the word has been used, from the spread of religious doctrines to the modern dissemination of digital infrastructure. You can use it to analyze the '普及障壁' (barriers to diffusion) in a specialized field like biotechnology or macroeconomics. Your mastery allows you to use the word with rhetorical flair, perhaps discussing the '普及の極致' (the pinnacle of widespread adoption). You can also engage with the word's presence in legal and policy documents, such as '普及促進法' (laws to promote dissemination). At this level, you are also aware of homophones and can ensure zero ambiguity in written communication. You can effortlessly switch between '普及' and its more academic synonyms depending on the audience, and you understand the sociological weight the word carries when discussing the '普及' of Western values in non-Western societies. You use the word not just to describe a state of being, but as a dynamic verb that captures the essence of societal transformation.

普及する en 30 segundos

  • 普及する describes the process of something new becoming a common standard used by many people in society, like smartphones or internet banking.
  • It is primarily an intransitive verb (Something が 普及する), while the causative 普及させる means to actively popularize or promote something to the public.
  • Unlike 'fads,' this word implies a level of permanent integration and is frequently used in news, business, and academic contexts regarding technology and systems.
  • Common collocations include 急速に普及する (spread rapidly) and 普及率 (diffusion rate), highlighting its focus on scale, reach, and societal saturation.

The Japanese verb 普及する (ふきゅうする - fukyuu suru) is an essential term for anyone looking to discuss social trends, technological advancement, or the adoption of new habits. At its core, it translates to 'to spread,' 'to become popular,' or 'to become widespread.' However, unlike the word 'popular' in English, which might simply mean 'liked by many,' 普及する specifically describes the process and result of a thing or idea reaching a wide audience until it becomes a standard or a common fixture in society. It is the bridge between a niche innovation and a household staple.

Etymological Nuance
The first kanji, 普 (fu), carries the meaning of 'universal,' 'general,' or 'wide.' The second kanji, 及 (kyuu), means 'to reach' or 'to extend to.' Together, they literally describe something 'reaching out universally.' This is why the word is so frequently used in the context of infrastructure, technology, and public health.
Societal Context
When a new technology like 5G or electric vehicles enters the market, analysts look at the 普及率 (ふきゅうりつ - fukyuuritsu), or the 'diffusion rate.' If a custom like 'working from home' becomes the norm, we say that practice has 普及した (fukyuu shita).

インターネットが世界中に普及することで、情報の共有が劇的に速くなった。
(With the internet spreading throughout the world, information sharing has become dramatically faster.)

You will encounter this word in news broadcasts, academic papers, and business meetings. It suggests a level of permanence and scale. While a 'fad' (ブーム) might come and go, something that has 普及した is generally expected to stay. For example, the use of smartphones is no longer a trend; they have fully 普及した in modern society. This word is also used in the context of 'disseminating' knowledge or ideas, such as the spread of democratic values or environmental awareness.

In a historical context, you might read about how the use of iron tools 普及した during the Yayoi period, or how literacy 普及した during the Edo period. In each case, it marks a turning point where a specific benefit or tool became available to the masses rather than just a privileged few. This democratization of access is a key semantic component of 普及する.

キャッシュレス決済が急速に普及している
(Cashless payments are rapidly becoming widespread.)

Using 普及する correctly requires understanding its grammatical behavior as a Suru-verb. Most commonly, it functions as an intransitive verb where the subject is the thing that is spreading. The basic pattern is [Subject] が 普及する.

The Passive/Active Distinction
While English often uses the passive voice ('The technology was popularized'), Japanese frequently uses the active intransitive form 普及する to describe the phenomenon itself. For example, 'The internet spread' is インターネットが普及した.
Modifying with Adverbs
To add detail to the speed or scale of the spread, use adverbs like 急速に (kyuusoku ni - rapidly), 徐々に (jojo ni - gradually), or 広く (hiroku - widely). These help define the nature of the dissemination.

新しい技術が普及するには、コストの低下が不可欠だ。
(For new technology to become widespread, a reduction in cost is essential.)

When you want to describe an entity (like a government or a company) actively working to spread something, you switch to the causative-like form 普及させる. For instance, 'The government is trying to popularize solar power' becomes 政府は太陽光発電を普及させようとしている. Notice how the particle changes from が (subject) to を (object).

この習慣は、江戸時代から日本全国に普及しました
(This custom spread across all of Japan starting from the Edo period.)

Another common usage is in the potential form, 普及しうる (fukyuu shi-uru - can spread/has the potential to spread). This is useful in academic or business contexts when discussing the future viability of a product or idea. For example, 'This software has the potential to spread globally' would be このソフトウェアは世界的に普及しうる.

If you turn on the NHK news or read a Japanese newspaper like the Asahi Shimbun, you will hear 普及する almost daily. It is the standard vocabulary for reporting on societal changes. Reporters use it to discuss everything from the adoption of vaccines to the prevalence of electric scooters in urban areas.

In Business Meetings
In a corporate setting, 普及 is used when discussing market penetration. A marketing manager might say, 'We need to think about how to make our app 普及 among the younger generation.' Here, it sounds professional and data-driven.
In Educational Settings
Teachers and lecturers use it when talking about the history of ideas. 'How did Buddhism spread (普及した) in Japan?' is a classic historical question. It implies a broad, cultural saturation.

テレワークが普及したおかげで、地方に移住する人が増えた。
(Thanks to the spread of teleworking, the number of people moving to rural areas has increased.)

You might also hear it in public service announcements. The government often talks about the 普及 of health checkups or the 普及 of safety measures. In these cases, the word carries a nuance of 'public benefit.' It’s not just about popularity; it’s about a beneficial standard reaching everyone.

AI技術が一般に普及するのは、まだ先のことだと思われていた。
(It was thought that the general spread of AI technology was still far off.)

One of the most frequent errors learners make is confusing 普及する with synonyms like 流行する (りゅうこうする - ryuukou suru) or 広まる (ひろまる - hiromaru). While they all mean 'to spread' in some sense, their applications are distinct.

普及する vs. 流行する
流行する refers to a 'fashion' or a 'fad.' It suggests something that is currently 'hot' or 'trendy' but might eventually fade away. 普及する, on the other hand, suggests a permanent integration into society. You wouldn't say a viral TikTok dance is 普及した; you would say it is 流行している.
普及する vs. 広まる
広まる is a broader term for 'to spread.' It is often used for rumors (噂が広まる) or news. 普及する is more specific to systems, technologies, and practices. You wouldn't say a rumor 普及した because a rumor isn't a useful tool or a societal standard.

❌ この噂はすぐに普及した
✅ この噂はすぐに広まった
(Correct: This rumor spread quickly. Incorrect: This rumor 'became popularized' as a standard.)

Another mistake involves the transitive/intransitive balance. Learners often use 普及する when they mean 'I am spreading this.' Remember that 普及する is 'it spreads.' To say 'I am spreading it,' use 普及させる. If you say '私が新しい技術を普及した,' it sounds like 'I became a widespread technology,' which is nonsensical.

Finally, avoid using 普及する for negative things like diseases or forest fires. For those, the word 蔓延する (まんえんする - man'en suru) or 広がる (ひろがる - hirogaru) is appropriate. 普及する almost always carries a neutral or positive connotation of utility and progress.

To truly master the concept of 'spreading' in Japanese, you should be aware of the nuances between 普及する and its related terms. This will help you choose the most precise word for your context.

浸透する (しんとうする - shintou suru)
This means 'to permeate' or 'to soak in.' While 普及 refers to the physical or numerical spread, 浸透 refers to an idea or brand truly being understood and accepted by the heart and mind of the people. 普及 is about access; 浸透 is about deep acceptance.
伝播する (でんぱする - denpa suru)
This is a more technical or academic term, often used in physics or sociology to describe the transmission of waves, diseases, or cultural traits from one point to another.
一般化する (いっぱんかする - ippanka suru)
Meaning 'to generalize' or 'to become common practice.' It is often used when a specific method or theory becomes the standard approach for everyone.

マナーが社会に浸透するには時間がかかる。
(It takes time for manners to permeate (be truly accepted by) society.)

When discussing the spread of a virus, you must use 感染が広がる (kansen ga hirogaru) or 蔓延する (man'en suru). Using 普及する in a medical context would sound like you are happy that the disease is becoming a standard household item, which is obviously incorrect. Similarly, for news or information, 広まる (hiromaru) is the most natural choice.

In summary, 普及する is your go-to word for the 'democratization' of technology and systems. It implies that something that was once rare or expensive is now available and used by almost everyone. It is a word of progress, scale, and societal change.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

While '普及' is now used for gadgets and technology, in the Meiji era, it was a high-level intellectual term used to discuss the 'diffusion' of Western enlightenment ideas.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /fu.kjuː.su.ɾu/
US /fu.kju.su.ru/
Japanese does not have stress accent; it uses pitch accent. For 普及する, the pitch rises after 'fu' and stays high through 'kyuu-su-ru'.
Rima con
kyuu (nine) ryuu (dragon) chyuu (middle) jyuu (ten) nyuu (entry) hyuu (sound of wind) myuu (music/mew) byuu (view)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing 'fu' as a sharp English 'f' with teeth on lips.
  • Shortening the long 'uu' in 'kyuu'.
  • Misplacing the pitch accent, making it sound like 'FUKYUU' (immortal) which has a different pitch pattern.
  • Confusing the 'u' sounds with English 'oo'; in Japanese, 'u' is unrounded.
  • Failure to pronounce the 'r' in 'suru' as a flap (like the 'tt' in 'better').

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 4/5

The kanji are N2/N3 level. They look a bit complex but are very common in newspapers.

Escritura 5/5

Writing the kanji 普及 requires practice, especially the 'fu' part.

Expresión oral 3/5

Easy to say, but hard to remember to use instead of 'ninki' or 'hiromaru'.

Escucha 3/5

Common in news and documentaries; easy to catch once you know it.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

広がる 人気 使う 技術 社会

Aprende después

浸透する 定着する 促進する 啓発する 需要

Avanzado

伝播 遍及 蔓延 飽和 趨勢

Gramática que debes saber

Suru-verbs

普及する / 普及した / 普及している

Causative form (Saseru)

政府が技術を普及させる。

Potential form (Uru/Eru)

それは普及しうる技術だ。

Modifying nouns with verbs

普及しているスマホ

Te-form for cause

普及して、便利になった。

Ejemplos por nivel

1

スマホが普及しています。

Smartphones are widespread.

Simple present continuous form showing a current state.

2

パソコンが普及しました。

Computers became common.

Past tense showing a completed process of spreading.

3

このアプリは普及するでしょう。

This app will probably spread.

Future/guess form using 'deshou'.

4

インターネットは便利だから普及しました。

The internet spread because it is convenient.

Using 'kara' to explain the reason for the spread.

5

普及している車は安いです。

Widespread cars are cheap.

Using the verb to modify a noun (car).

6

日本で普及している食べ物は何ですか?

What food is widespread in Japan?

Question form using the modifying verb.

7

テレビは昔、普及していませんでした。

TVs were not widespread a long time ago.

Negative past continuous form.

8

もっと普及してほしいです。

I want it to spread more.

Using 'te-hoshii' to express a desire for something to happen.

1

最近、電気自動車が普及し始めています。

Recently, electric cars are starting to spread.

Using 'hajimeru' (to start doing).

2

新しいスポーツが若者の間で普及しています。

A new sport is spreading among young people.

Using 'no aida de' (among/between).

3

この技術は世界中に普及すると思います。

I think this technology will spread throughout the world.

Using 'to omoimasu' to express an opinion.

4

普及していない言葉を使うのは難しいです。

It is difficult to use words that aren't widespread.

Negative modifying clause.

5

キャッシュレス決済が普及して、便利になりました。

Cashless payments spread, and it became convenient.

Using 'te' form to connect cause and effect.

6

普及させるために、広告を出します。

To make it spread, we will put out an ad.

Using 'tame ni' (in order to) with the causative form.

7

この本は、普及版(ふきゅうばん)も売っています。

This book also sells a popular (cheaper) edition.

Introduction of the compound noun '普及版'.

8

普及した理由は、使いやすさです。

The reason it spread is its ease of use.

Noun phrase 'fukyuu shita riyuu'.

1

再生可能エネルギーが急速に普及することが期待されています。

Renewable energy is expected to spread rapidly.

Using the passive 'kitai sarete iru' (is expected).

2

テレワークの普及により、働き方が大きく変わりました。

With the spread of telework, the way we work has changed significantly.

Using 'ni yori' to show the cause/means.

3

政府はマイナンバーカードを普及させようとしています。

The government is trying to popularize the My Number card.

Using the volitional 'sase-you to shite iru' (trying to make spread).

4

その習慣が日本全国に普及するまでには、長い時間がかかった。

It took a long time for that custom to spread across all of Japan.

Using 'made ni wa' to indicate a time limit or duration.

5

普及率が50%を超えると、一気に広まることが多い。

Once the diffusion rate exceeds 50%, things often spread all at once.

Using 'to' for natural consequences/conditionals.

6

新しい教育システムを普及させるための活動を行っています。

We are carrying out activities to popularize the new education system.

Using the causative 'saseru' to modify 'tame no'.

7

普及し始めたばかりの技術には、まだ課題が多い。

Technologies that have only just started to spread still have many issues.

Using 'bakari' (just finished/just started).

8

この薬が普及すれば、多くの命が救われるでしょう。

If this medicine becomes widespread, many lives will be saved.

Using the 'ba' conditional form.

1

AIの普及は、私たちの日常生活に劇的な変化をもたらすだろう。

The spread of AI will likely bring dramatic changes to our daily lives.

Noun form '普及' as the subject of the sentence.

2

普及が進む一方で、プライバシーの保護が課題となっている。

While adoption is progressing, privacy protection has become an issue.

Using 'ippou de' (on the other hand/while).

3

このサービスの普及を妨げている要因は何ですか?

What are the factors hindering the spread of this service?

Using 'samatagete iru' (hindering) to modify 'youin'.

4

広く普及している割には、その仕組みを理解している人は少ない。

Considering how widely it has spread, few people understand how it works.

Using 'wari ni wa' (despite/considering).

5

環境意識の普及に伴い、プラスチックの使用を控える人が増えた。

Along with the spread of environmental awareness, more people are refraining from using plastic.

Using 'ni tomonai' (along with/accompanying).

6

新しいOSを普及させるべく、大規模なキャンペーンが展開された。

A large-scale campaign was launched in order to popularize the new OS.

Using 'beku' (formal 'in order to').

7

この技術が一般家庭にまで普及するには、まだ数年を要する見込みだ。

It is expected to take a few more years for this technology to spread to general households.

Using 'wo you-suru mikomi' (expected to require).

8

普及の初期段階においては、アーリーアダプターの存在が不可欠だ。

In the initial stages of diffusion, the presence of early adopters is essential.

Using 'ni oite wa' (in/at the stage of).

1

民主主義の概念が世界中に普及する過程で、多くの摩擦が生じた。

In the process of democratic concepts spreading globally, much friction occurred.

Using 'katei de' (in the process of).

2

この学説は、専門家の間では普及しているが、一般にはあまり知られていない。

This theory is widespread among experts but not well known to the general public.

Contrastive 'ga' used with professional vs. general context.

3

技術の普及が、既存の産業構造を根底から覆す可能性がある。

The spread of technology has the potential to overturn existing industrial structures from the ground up.

Using 'kontei kara kutsugaesu' (overturn from the roots).

4

普及啓発活動を通じて、人々の意識改革を促す必要がある。

It is necessary to encourage a change in people's awareness through popularization and enlightenment activities.

Compound noun '普及啓発活動'.

5

その思想は、出版技術の向上によって急速に普及の途に就いた。

That ideology rapidly began its path toward dissemination due to improvements in printing technology.

Using 'no to ni tsuita' (started on the path of).

6

普及が進めば進むほど、その弊害も顕在化してくるものだ。

The more it spreads, the more its harmful effects tend to become apparent.

Using the 'ba... hodo' (the more... the more) structure.

7

高度な医療技術の普及は、倫理的な議論を避けては通れない。

The spread of advanced medical technology cannot avoid ethical debates.

Using 'sakete wa torenai' (cannot avoid/must go through).

8

グローバル化の進展により、英語の普及はさらに加速している。

With the progress of globalization, the spread of English is accelerating further.

Using 'ni yori' and 'kasoku shite iru' (accelerating).

1

イノベーションの普及理論によれば、キャズムを越えることが成功の鍵である。

According to the diffusion of innovations theory, crossing the chasm is the key to success.

Academic reference to '普及理論' (Diffusion Theory).

2

当該技術の普及に伴う社会制度の変容を、包括的に分析する必要がある。

It is necessary to comprehensively analyze the transformation of social systems accompanying the spread of the technology in question.

Using highly formal vocabulary like 'tougai' and 'houkatsu-teki'.

3

普及の飽和点に達した市場では、新規顧客の獲得は極めて困難である。

In a market that has reached its saturation point of diffusion, acquiring new customers is extremely difficult.

Using 'houwaten' (saturation point).

4

文化の普及は、単なる模倣ではなく、受容側による再解釈を伴うことが多い。

The spread of culture often involves reinterpretation by the receiving side, rather than mere imitation.

Sophisticated sociological observation using 'juyou-gawa'.

5

普及促進のための法的枠組みを整備することが、喫緊の課題となっている。

Developing a legal framework for the promotion of dissemination has become an urgent issue.

Using 'kikkin no kadai' (urgent issue).

6

特定の価値観が普遍的に普及するという考え方には、批判的な見解も根強い。

There is also strong critical opposition to the idea that specific values spread universally.

Using 'fuhen-teki' (universal) and 'neduyoi' (deep-rooted).

7

情報の普及スピードが速まるにつれ、デマや誤情報の拡散も深刻化している。

As the speed of information dissemination increases, the spread of hoaxes and misinformation is also becoming more serious.

Using 'ni tsure' (as... then...).

8

普及の裾野を広げるためには、低所得層への配慮が欠かせない。

To expand the base of dissemination, consideration for low-income groups is indispensable.

Using the metaphor 'susono wo hirogeru' (expand the base/foothills).

Colocaciones comunes

急速に普及する
広く普及している
普及率が高い
一般に普及する
世界的に普及する
普及活動を行う
普及を妨げる
普及を促進する
普及の余地がある
普及版を出す

Frases Comunes

普及の名作

— Wait! This is actually a common mistake. People confuse 普及 (widespread) with 不朽 (fukyuu - immortal). The phrase is '不朽の名作'.

これは不朽の名作だ。(This is an immortal masterpiece.)

普及啓発

— Popularization and raising awareness. Often used in government documents.

防災知識の普及啓発に努める。

普及指導員

— An extension worker or instructor whose job is to spread knowledge (usually in agriculture).

農業普及指導員に相談する。

普及モデル

— A standard or budget model of a product designed for the general public.

これは普及モデルなので価格が安い。

普及価格帯

— A price range that is affordable for the general public to encourage adoption.

普及価格帯の製品を投入する。

普及が進む

— Adoption is progressing. Used to describe an ongoing trend.

キャッシュレス化の普及が進んでいる。

普及を急ぐ

— To hurry the spread or adoption of something.

ワクチンの普及を急ぐ必要がある。

普及を願う

— To hope for the widespread adoption of an idea or practice.

平和な世界の普及を願う。

普及に貢献する

— To contribute to the spread of something.

彼はそのスポーツの普及に貢献した。

普及を阻害する

— To inhibit or block the spread of something.

不十分なインフラが普及を阻害している。

Se confunde a menudo con

普及する vs 不朽 (fukyuu)

Homophone meaning 'immortal.' Used in '不朽の名作' (immortal masterpiece).

普及する vs 復旧 (fukkyuu)

Homophone meaning 'restoration' (like after a disaster). Used for trains or power lines.

普及する vs 布教 (fukyou)

Similar sounding word meaning 'missionary work' or spreading a religion.

Modismos y expresiones

"普及の途に就く"

— To start on the path of becoming widespread. Used for the beginning of a major trend.

新技術がついに普及の途に就いた。

Formal
"普及の裾野を広げる"

— To expand the base of users or the range of people something reaches.

低価格化により、普及の裾野を広げる。

Business/Formal
"普及の波に乗る"

— To ride the wave of popularization. To take advantage of a growing trend.

デジタル化の普及の波に乗る。

Neutral
"普及の壁"

— The 'wall' or barrier that prevents something from spreading further.

コストが最大の普及の壁となっている。

Business
"普及に拍車をかける"

— To accelerate the spread of something (literally 'to apply spurs').

補助金がEVの普及に拍車をかけた。

Formal
"普及の兆し"

— Signs or indications that something is starting to spread.

新しい文化が普及の兆しを見せている。

Formal
"普及の極致"

— The ultimate state of being widespread; when something is everywhere.

スマホは今や普及の極致にある。

Literary
"普及を見越す"

— To anticipate or plan for something becoming widespread in the future.

将来の普及を見越して投資する。

Business
"普及の先駆け"

— A pioneer or a precursor to the widespread adoption of something.

この製品が普及の先駆けとなった。

Formal
"普及を後押しする"

— To give a push or support to the spread of something.

法改正がキャッシュレスの普及を後押しした。

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

普及する vs 流行する

Both mean 'to spread/be popular.'

流行 is for temporary trends/fads; 普及 is for permanent societal standards/tools.

タピオカが流行した (Tapioca was a fad) vs. 冷蔵庫が普及した (Refrigerators became standard).

普及する vs 広まる

Both mean 'to spread.'

広まる is general (news, rumors); 普及 is specific (tech, systems, habits).

噂が広まる (Rumor spreads) vs. 5Gが普及する (5G spreads).

普及する vs 蔓延する

Both mean 'to spread widely.'

蔓延 is for negative things (disease, crime); 普及 is for neutral/positive things.

悪習が蔓延する (Bad habits spread) vs. マナーが普及する (Manners spread).

普及する vs 浸透する

Both involve something reaching many people.

普及 is about usage/access; 浸透 is about deep psychological acceptance.

ブランドが普及する (Brand is everywhere) vs. ブランド理念が浸透する (Brand philosophy is understood).

普及する vs 伝播する

Both mean transmission/spread.

伝播 is a technical/academic term for waves or cultural traits; 普及 is the common term for social adoption.

電波が伝播する (Radio waves transmit) vs. Wi-Fiが普及する (Wi-Fi is widespread).

Patrones de oraciones

A2

[N] が 普及しています。

インターネットが普及しています。

B1

[N] の 普及により、[Result]。

スマホの普及により、生活が便利になった。

B1

[N] を 普及させるために、[Action]。

新しい技術を普及させるために努力する。

B2

[N] が 急速に 普及した背景には、[Reason] がある。

EVが普及した背景には、政府の補助金がある。

B2

[N] の 普及率は、まだ低い。

そのサービスの普及率は、まだ低い。

C1

[N] が 普及の途に就く。

その思想がようやく普及の途に就いた。

C1

[N] の 普及に伴い、[Change]。

ITの普及に伴い、社会が変化した。

C2

[N] の 普及を阻む要因を分析する。

普及を阻む要因を包括的に分析する。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

普及 (fukyuu - popularization/diffusion)
普及率 (fukyuuritsu - diffusion rate)
普及版 (fukyuuban - popular edition)
普及活動 (fukyuu katsudou - outreach)

Verbos

普及する (fukyuu suru - to spread [intransitive])
普及させる (fukyuu saseru - to popularize [causative/transitive])

Relacionado

広まる (hiromaru)
浸透する (shintou suru)
流行する (ryuukou suru)
伝播する (denpa suru)
一般化 (ippanka)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

High in news, business, and formal writing; moderate in casual speech.

Errores comunes
  • 流行する vs 普及する 普及する

    Don't use 普及 for short-term fads like 'tapioca.' Use it for long-term standards like 'smartphones.'

  • 病気が普及した 病気が蔓延した / 広まった

    普及 is for positive/useful things. For diseases, use negative words like 蔓延 (man'en).

  • 新しい技術を普及した 新しい技術を普及させた

    普及する is intransitive. If you (the subject) are doing the spreading, use the causative 普及させる.

  • 噂が普及した 噂が広まった

    Rumors are not tools or systems. Use 広まる (hiromaru) for information.

  • 普及の名作 不朽の名作

    This is a kanji/homophone error. 不朽 (fukyuu) means immortal; 普及 (fukyuu) means widespread.

Consejos

Intransitive nature

Always remember that [Thing] が 普及する. Don't use を unless you change it to 普及させる.

Pair with Rate

If you are talking about statistics, always use 普及率 (fukyuuritsu). It makes you sound very knowledgeable.

Not for rumors

Avoid using it for news or gossip. Stick to technology, systems, and habits.

The 'Fu' Kanji

The kanji 普 is also used in 普通 (futsuu - ordinary). Think of 普及 as making something 'ordinary' for everyone.

Adverb boost

Adding 急速に (rapidly) or 一気に (all at once) before 普及する makes your descriptions more vivid.

Formal Contexts

Use 普及 in essays instead of 'everyone uses it' to raise your writing score.

News keywords

When you hear 普及, expect the next few sentences to be about market trends or social changes.

Modernization

In Japan, 普及 is often associated with Westernization or technological leaps.

Common Ground

Discussing what is '普及している' in your country is a great way to start a conversation about cultural differences.

Universal Reach

Remember: 普 (Universal) + 及 (Reach). That's all you need!

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'FU' (Few) and 'KYUU' (Queue). When something is NOT widespread, only a FEW people are in the QUEUE. When it 普及する, everyone is in the queue!

Asociación visual

Imagine a map of Japan where a small dot in Tokyo slowly turns into a giant wash of color covering the whole island. That color is 'Fukyuu'.

Word Web

Technology Society Trend Standard Internet Smartphones Global Common

Desafío

Try to find one thing in your room that has '普及した' in the last 10 years and write a sentence about it using '普及する'.

Origen de la palabra

The word 普及 comes from Chinese roots (Sino-Japanese vocabulary). It was used in classical texts to describe the spread of virtue or knowledge by a ruler.

Significado original: To reach everywhere; to extend universally.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Contexto cultural

Avoid using 普及する for negative social phenomena like crime or poverty; use 'hirogaru' or 'zoudai' (increase) instead.

In English, we often say 'go viral' or 'take off,' but those are more casual. '普及する' is closer to the professional term 'market penetration' or 'wide adoption.'

Innovation Diffusion Theory (Everett Rogers) The phrase 'ITの普及' (The spread of IT) which defined the early 2000s in Japan. Government white papers (Hakusho) frequently use this word.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Technology

  • 新技術の普及
  • 5Gの普及
  • AIの普及
  • デバイスの普及

Business

  • 市場への普及
  • 普及率の向上
  • 普及モデルの投入
  • 普及を加速させる

Environment

  • エコカーの普及
  • リサイクルの普及
  • 再生エネルギーの普及
  • 環境意識の普及

Education

  • オンライン教育の普及
  • 知識の普及
  • リテラシーの普及
  • 奨学金制度の普及

Health

  • ワクチンの普及
  • 健康診断の普及
  • 手洗いの習慣の普及
  • マスク着用の普及

Inicios de conversación

"あなたの国では、どのような新しい技術が普及していますか?"

"キャッシュレス決済は、日本で十分に普及したと思いますか?"

"将来、空飛ぶ車が普及する日は来るでしょうか?"

"テレワークが普及したことで、人々の生活はどう変わりましたか?"

"新しい習慣を社会に普及させるには、何が必要だと思いますか?"

Temas para diario

最近普及したと感じるものについて、その理由と一緒に書いてみましょう。(Write about something you feel has become widespread recently and the reason why.)

10年後にはどのようなサービスが普及しているか、想像して書いてください。(Imagine and write about what services will be widespread 10 years from now.)

あなたの国で普及させたい日本の文化や習慣はありますか?(Is there any Japanese culture or custom you want to popularize in your country?)

普及することのメリットとデメリットについて考えてみましょう。(Think about the merits and demerits of something becoming widespread.)

自分が開発したアプリを世界中に普及させるための計画を立ててみましょう。(Make a plan to disseminate an app you developed to the world.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, it's better to use '流行っている' (hayatteiru) or 'ヒットしている' (hit shiteiru). 普及 implies a tool or a system, not a piece of entertainment.

It is generally neutral or positive. It suggests progress and convenience. For negative things like viruses, use '蔓延する' (man'en suru).

普及率 (fukyuuritsu) is the percentage of people using something (e.g., 90% have a phone). 普及版 (fukyuuban) is a cheap, mass-market edition of a book or software.

Use the causative: '政府がその考えを普及させた' (Seifu ga sono kangae wo fukyuu saseta).

No, you cannot say a person '普及した.' It is only for ideas, technologies, and customs.

The word itself often appears in N3, but the kanji and formal usage are more common in N2 and above.

No, that sounds strange. Use '噂が広まった' (Uwasa ga hiromatta).

It's a formal term often used by the government, meaning 'to spread knowledge and raise public awareness' about a topic like safety or health.

It's a noun that becomes a verb by adding 'suru' (普及する).

Yes, if a new type of food or a way of eating becomes a standard part of the diet, like 'パンの普及' (the spread of bread consumption in Japan).

Ponte a prueba 182 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence about smartphones using 普及する.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about renewable energy using 普及させる.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain why electric cars are not spreading yet using 普及.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use the phrase 普及に伴い in a sentence about telework.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a formal sentence about public awareness using 普及啓発.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Describe a historical change using 普及した.

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writing

Use 普及の兆し in a sentence about a new technology.

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writing

Translate: 'The diffusion rate of this app is 80%.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 普及を妨げる.

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writing

Use 普及の極致 in a sophisticated sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence about your favorite hobby using 普及させたい.

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writing

Describe the spread of a language using 普及.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 普及の途に就く in a formal context.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using 普及版.

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writing

Explain the benefit of something spreading using 普及して.

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writing

Use 普及活動 in a sentence about a non-profit.

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writing

Write a sentence using 普及しうる.

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writing

Use 普及促進 in a sentence about a policy.

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writing

Describe a future world using 普及している.

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writing

Use 普及の裾野 in a sentence about education.

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speaking

Talk about a technology that is widespread in your country using 普及する.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss the pros and cons of telework spreading using 普及.

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speaking

How would you promote a new app? Use 普及させる.

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speaking

What is the 普及率 of cars in your city? Estimate in Japanese.

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speaking

Describe a future trend using 普及の兆し.

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speaking

Explain 普及版 to a friend in simple Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss environmental awareness using 普及.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about the spread of English globally using 普及.

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speaking

Use 普及に伴い to describe a change in your life.

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speaking

Express your hope for peace using 普及.

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speaking

What is the 'wall' to EV spread? Use 普及の壁.

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speaking

Talk about a pioneer product using 普及の先駆け.

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speaking

Discuss the speed of information spread using 普及スピード.

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speaking

How to expand the base? Use 普及の裾野を広げる.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Is AI widespread? Use 普及の極致.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe a historical spread using 普及した.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Use 普及しうる in a business pitch.

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speaking

Talk about awareness using 普及啓発.

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speaking

What is hindering a new habit? Use 普及を阻む.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Discuss the saturation of smartphones using 普及飽和点.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen to the word 'fukyuu' in a sentence and write the meaning.

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

Is the speaker talking about the past or future? 'この技術はすぐに普及するでしょう。'

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

Identify the number: '普及率は75パーセントです。'

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

Who is spreading it? '政府がこの制度を普及させました。'

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

What is the speed? '急速に普及しました。'

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

Is it widespread now? 'まだ普及していません。'

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

Identify the hindrance: 'コストが普及の壁です。'

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

What kind of activity? '普及啓発活動を行います。'

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

Is it a trend or a standard? 'それは一時的な流行ではなく、普及です。'

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

What is the target area? '世界中に普及しました。'

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

Identify the era: '江戸時代に普及しました。'

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

What is the price type? '普及価格で販売します。'

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

Is there a possibility? '普及しうる可能性があります。'

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

What is happening to the base? '普及の裾野が広がっています。'

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

What is the topic? 'ITの普及について話します。'

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

/ 182 correct

Perfect score!

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