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A2 verb #4,000 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

発明する

hatsumeisuru Top 4,000

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 発明する en 30 secondes

Explication 発明する in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'hatsumei suru' (発明する) is introduced as a basic verb to describe famous historical figures. Learners should focus on the simple past tense form 'hatsumei shimashita' (invented). You will mostly see this word in sentences about things everyone knows, like 'Edison invented the lightbulb.' At this stage, you don't need to worry about the complex legal or scientific nuances. Just remember that it is a 'suru-verb,' so it conjugates just like 'benkyou suru' (to study) or 'renshuu suru' (to practice). The most important thing is to connect the word to the concept of 'making something new for the first time.' You might see it in simple reading passages about famous people. The key grammar point is [Person] wa [Thing] o hatsumei shimashita. It's a great word to help you start talking about history and important objects in your life. Don't worry about the passive voice yet; just focus on who did what. Even at this early stage, knowing 'hatsumei' helps you understand why some things are called 'hatsumei' while others are just 'tsukuru' (made). For example, you make a sandwich (tsukuru), but someone invented the sandwich (hatsumei). This distinction helps build a foundation for more advanced vocabulary later on.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use 'hatsumei suru' in more varied contexts, including expressing your own ideas or dreams. You might say, 'I want to invent a robot' (Robotto o hatsumei shitai desu). You will also learn to use the plain form 'hatsumei suru' in relative clauses, such as 'The person who invented this' (Kore o hatsumei shita hito). This level introduces more 'suru-verbs,' and you should become comfortable with the different forms of 'hatsumei suru,' including the negative 'hatsumei shinai' and the potential 'hatsumei dekiru.' You'll likely encounter this word in textbooks when discussing Japanese innovations like instant noodles or blue LEDs. It's also a good time to learn the difference between 'hatsumei' (invention) and 'hakken' (discovery). A2 learners should be able to answer simple questions like 'Who invented the telephone?' or 'What would you like to invent?' using 'hatsumei suru.' You might also start to see the word in simple news articles or children's science books. Practice using it with the particle 'o' and pay attention to how it's used to describe the origin of everyday items. This expands your ability to talk about the world beyond your immediate surroundings and into the realm of history and technology.

By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'hatsumei suru' in the passive voice, which is very common in formal writing and news. Instead of saying 'Edison invented the lightbulb,' you might say 'The lightbulb was invented by Edison' (Denkyuu wa Edison ni yotte hatsumei sareta). This requires knowledge of the 'ni yotte' construction. You will also encounter 'hatsumei' as a noun more frequently, such as in the phrase 'hatsumei no chichi' (the father of invention). At this level, you can start to discuss the impact of inventions on society using 'hatsumei suru' in conditional and causal sentences. For example, 'Because the internet was invented, our lives became convenient' (Intaanetto ga hatsumei sareta node, seikatsu ga benri ni natta). You will also begin to see the word in more technical or business-related contexts. You should be able to distinguish between 'hatsumei' and 'kaihatsu' (development) more clearly. B1 learners are expected to handle more complex sentence structures where 'hatsumei suru' is part of a larger argument. You might also start using it in the 'te-form' to connect ideas, like 'He invented a new tool and became rich' (Atarashii dougu o hatsumei shite, okanemochi ni natta). This level is about moving from simple facts to discussing the broader implications of innovation.

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At the B2 level, 'hatsumei suru' is used in sophisticated discussions about technology, intellectual property, and historical trends. You will encounter it in academic essays, opinion pieces, and formal presentations. You should be able to use it to discuss abstract concepts, such as 'inventing a new system' or 'inventing a methodology.' You will also learn related terms like 'tokkyo' (patent) and 'shinki-sei' (novelty). B2 learners should be able to debate the ethics of certain inventions, such as AI or genetic engineering, using 'hatsumei suru' accurately. You will see it used in complex grammar structures like 'hatsumei suru koto ni yotte' (by inventing) or 'hatsumei shita to iwarete iru' (is said to have invented). At this stage, your understanding of the nuances between 'hatsumei,' 'kouan,' and 'sousaku' should be sharp. You might read about the history of Japanese patents or the legal battles over famous inventions. You should also be able to use the word in formal speeches, perhaps describing a company's innovative spirit. The focus here is on the precision of the word within a professional or academic framework. You will also see it in literature, where it might be used metaphorically. Your ability to use 'hatsumei suru' should now reflect a deep understanding of its social and legal weight in Japanese society.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'hatsumei suru' should be near-native, incorporating it into high-level discourse on science, philosophy, and law. You will encounter the word in legal documents, such as patent applications (特許出願 - tokkyo shutsugan), where the definition of what constitutes an 'invention' is strictly defined. You should be able to navigate the subtle distinctions between 'shitsumei' (an invention that is not useful) and 'dai-hatsumei' (a great invention). You will read scholarly articles that analyze the 'hatsumei' process from a psychological or sociological perspective. C1 learners can use the word to discuss the 'invention of tradition' (dentou no hatsumei), a sophisticated concept in history and sociology. You will also be familiar with idiomatic or metaphorical uses of the word in high-level literature. At this level, you should be able to explain the criteria for an invention in Japan, such as 'shinki-sei' (novelty), 'shinpo-sei' (inventive step), and 'sangyou-jou no riyou-sei' (industrial applicability). You can participate in complex discussions about how AI is changing the very definition of 'hatsumei suru.' Your vocabulary will include many compound words starting with 'hatsumei,' and you will be able to use them in various registers, from highly technical to eloquently persuasive. The word becomes a tool for analyzing human progress at its most fundamental level.

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At the C2 level, 'hatsumei suru' is a word you use with total mastery, understanding its every nuance and historical evolution. You can discuss the etymology of the kanji and how the concept of 'invention' has shifted from the Meiji era to the present day. You are comfortable using the word in the context of international patent law (PCT) and can explain how Japanese 'hatsumei' differs from Western 'invention' in legal and cultural terms. You can read and critique complex legal arguments regarding 'shokumu hatsumei' (inventions made in the course of employment), a major topic in Japanese corporate law. Your use of the word in creative writing or academic research is flawless, utilizing it to describe not just technological breakthroughs but the very act of conceptualizing new realities. You can engage in philosophical debates about whether mathematics is 'hatsumei' (invented) or 'hakken' (discovered). You are also familiar with rare or archaic terms related to invention and can use them to add flavor to your speech or writing. At this level, the word is more than just a verb; it is a lens through which you can view and describe the complexities of human ingenuity and its impact on the world. You can effortlessly switch between the technical precision required in a courtroom and the evocative language used in a keynote speech about the future of humanity.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

発明する en 30 secondes

発明する means 'to invent' and is used for original creations like machines, systems, or processes that did not exist before in human history.
It is a formal suru-verb (transitive) that typically takes the object particle 'o' and is frequently used in historical, scientific, and legal contexts.
Do not confuse it with 'hakken suru' (to discover), which is for finding things that already exist, or 'tsukuru' (to make), which is for general creation.
Commonly seen in the passive voice (hatsumei sareru) when discussing historical breakthroughs or the origin of famous technologies and everyday conveniences.

The Japanese verb 発明する (hatsumei suru) is a cornerstone of vocabulary for anyone discussing technology, history, or creativity. At its core, it translates to "to invent." However, the nuance goes deeper than just making something new. It implies the creation of a device, process, or method that did not exist previously in human history. This word is composed of two kanji: 発 (hatsu), meaning to emit, start, or reveal, and 明 (mei), meaning bright or clear. Together, they suggest bringing something into the light of day that was previously hidden or non-existent.

Concept: The act of original creation through intellectual effort and trial.

In everyday Japanese, you will hear this word most frequently in educational contexts, such as when learning about famous figures like Thomas Edison or Alexander Graham Bell. It is also a staple in news reports concerning patents (特許 - tokkyo) and technological breakthroughs. Unlike the English word 'make' (tsukuru), which can refer to making a sandwich or a chair, 'hatsumei suru' is reserved for things that represent a leap in human capability.

彼は新しいエネルギー源を発明するために、毎日研究しています。

This sentence illustrates the dedication often associated with the verb. It is a 'suru-verb,' meaning it follows the conjugation patterns of the irregular verb 'suru.' Culturally, Japan takes great pride in its history of invention, from the 'karaoke' machine to 'instant ramen.' When you use this word, you are tapping into a narrative of progress and ingenuity. It is not just about the final product, but the systematic process of research and development. In a professional setting, a scientist might say 'shinki na gijutsu o hatsumei suru' (to invent a novel technology), which carries a high level of formality and prestige.

Register: Formal and Academic. It is rarely used for trivial creations like a new recipe unless used humorously.

Furthermore, the word appears in compound nouns like 'hatsumeika' (発明家), meaning an inventor. If you are describing a child's creative project, you might use it to encourage them, saying 'sugoi hatsumei da ne!' (That's a great invention!).

エジソンは電球を発明しました。

This is a classic textbook example. Notice how it takes the object particle 'o' (を). In summary, 'hatsumei suru' is your go-to word for milestones of human progress, scientific breakthroughs, and the legendary figures who changed the world with their ideas. It signifies the birth of something truly unique.

Using 発明する correctly requires understanding its transitive nature and its typical sentence structures. In its simplest form, the pattern is [Subject] + は + [Object] + を + 発明する. For example, 'Tanaka-san wa atarashii robotto o hatsumei shita' (Mr. Tanaka invented a new robot). However, in many historical or passive contexts, you will see the passive form: 発明される (hatsumei sareru).

Passive Voice: Object + は + Agent + によって + 発明された (The object was invented by the agent).

This is extremely common in academic writing. For instance, 'Denkyuu wa Edison ni yotte hatsumei sareta' (The lightbulb was invented by Edison).

この便利な道具は誰によって発明されましたか？

When discussing the purpose of an invention, you can use the 'tame ni' (for the purpose of) construction. 'Benri na seikatsu o okuru tame ni, kore wa hatsumei sareta' (This was invented to lead a convenient life). Another important aspect is the use of the word in its noun form, 発明 (hatsumei), followed by the particle 'da' or 'desu'. 'Kore wa seiki no hatsumei desu' (This is the invention of the century). In complex sentences, 'hatsumei suru' can act as a relative clause modifying a noun. 'Kare ga hatsumei shita kikai' (The machine that he invented). This allows for rich descriptions of inventors and their contributions.

Relative Clause: [Verb in plain form] + [Noun] - e.g., 'hatsumei shita hito' (the person who invented).

You might also encounter the potential form, 発明できる (hatsumei dekiru), meaning 'can invent.' 'Dare demo nani ka o hatsumei dekiru kanousei ga aru' (Everyone has the potential to invent something). In more casual settings, you might hear it used hyperbolically. If a friend comes up with a clever way to open a bottle without an opener, you might say 'Sore, hatsumei da ne!' (That's an invention!).

未来の子供たちが何を発明するか楽しみだ。

This usage focuses on the future and potential. Finally, consider the conditional form: 'Moshi watashi ga taimu mashiin o hatsumei shitara...' (If I were to invent a time machine...). This is a great way to practice hypothetical grammar.

Common Pairing: Often paired with 'atarashii' (new) or 'sekai-hatsu' (world-first).

By mastering these patterns, you can discuss history, science, and personal creativity with precision.

Understanding the context of 発明する (hatsumei suru) is key to sounding natural. You will rarely hear this word in a supermarket or a casual chat about the weather. Instead, it thrives in environments focused on progress and legacy.

Classrooms: History and science teachers use this word constantly to describe the industrial revolution or scientific breakthroughs.

For example, in a Japanese junior high school history class, the teacher might say, 'Sangyou kakumei no jidai ni, ooku no kikai ga hatsumei saremashita' (During the Industrial Revolution, many machines were invented).

この技術は、日本で発明されました。

You will also hear it in documentaries, particularly those on NHK (Japan's public broadcaster) that focus on 'Monozukuri' (the art of making things). These programs often celebrate the 'hatsumeika' (inventors) who built modern Japan. In the business world, specifically in R&D (Research and Development) departments, 'hatsumei' is a legal term. Companies aim to 'hatsumei suru' something that can be patented. You might hear a manager say, 'Tokkyo o toru tame ni, shinki-sei no aru gijutsu o hatsumei shinakereba naranai' (In order to get a patent, we must invent a technology with novelty).

News Media: Headlines like 'AI ga atarashii kusuri o hatsumei?' (Did AI invent a new medicine?) are becoming common.

Children's media also utilizes the word frequently. Anime characters who are 'mad scientists' or 'genius kids' (like Dr. Slump or Detective Conan's Professor Agasa) are constantly 'hatsumei suru'-ing new gadgets.

ドラえもんは未来の道具をたくさん発明したわけではありませんが、それらは未来の誰かによって発明されたものです。

This highlights the distinction between using a tool and inventing it. Furthermore, in the context of intellectual property law, the word is used in very specific, technical ways. 'Hatsumei no kousei youken' (the constituent elements of an invention) is a phrase you would hear in a patent attorney's office.

Museums: Exhibition labels: '1900-nen ni hatsumei sareta...' (Invented in 1900...).

Even in casual conversation, if someone comes up with a surprisingly effective 'life hack,' a friend might jokingly call them an 'inventor.' This shows the word's versatility from high-stakes legal talk to lighthearted social interaction.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make with 発明する (hatsumei suru) is confusing it with other 'creation' verbs. The most common mix-up is with 発見する (hakken suru - to discover). While English speakers sometimes use 'discover' and 'invent' loosely, Japanese is quite strict. You 'hatsumei' a telephone because it didn't exist before, but you 'hakken' a new species of beetle because the beetle was already there; you just found it.

Mistake 1: Using 'hatsumei' for natural phenomena. Incorrect: 'Newton wa juuryoku o hatsumei shita.' Correct: 'Newton wa juuryoku o hakken shita.'

Another common mistake is overusing 'hatsumei suru' for everyday making. If you build a bookshelf using a kit, you are not 'hatsumei'ing it. You are 'kumitateru' (assembling) or 'tsukuru' (making).

× 私は昨日、新しいケーキを発明しました。

Unless this cake uses a revolutionary chemical process never seen in culinary history, 'hatsumei' sounds unnaturally heavy. Use 'kangae-dashita' (thought up) or 'tsukutta' (made) instead. Confusion also arises with 開発する (kaihatsu suru - to develop). 'Kaihatsu' is used for software, real estate, or improving existing technology. If you are making a new app, you are 'kaihatsu'ing it. If you create the concept of 'touch screens' for the first time, you 'hatsumei'ed it.

Mistake 2: Confusing 'hatsumei' with 'kaihatsu'. Remember: Invention is the 'spark'; Development is the 'growth'.

Grammatically, learners sometimes forget that 'hatsumei' is a noun that needs 'suru' to become a verb. Saying just 'watashi wa hatsumei...' without the verb ending is incomplete. Also, watch the particles. It is '...o hatsumei suru', not '...ni hatsumei suru'.

× 彼は電球に発明しました。

This is a common particle error. Finally, avoid using 'hatsumei' for abstract ideas like 'inventing a story.' In Japanese, you 'tsukuru' (make) or 'sousaku suru' (create/write) a story. 'Hatsumei' is almost always tied to something tangible or a specific technical process.

Mistake 3: Using 'hatsumei' for fiction. Use 'sousaku' (創作) for creative writing instead.

Keeping these distinctions in mind will prevent awkward phrasing.

Japanese has a rich set of words for 'creating' and 'finding,' and choosing the right one is essential for fluency. Let's compare 発明する (hatsumei suru) with its closest relatives.

発見する (Hakken suru): To discover. Use this for finding things that already existed (e.g., a new star, a fossil, a hidden truth).

開発する (Kaihatsu suru): To develop. This is the industrial or technological process of bringing an idea to fruition or improving it. Apps and software are always 'kaihatsu'.

創造する (Souzou suru): To create. This is a grand, often artistic or divine word. God 'souzou'ed the world. An artist 'souzou'es a masterpiece. It's more abstract than 'hatsumei'.

新しい薬を開発するのと、新しい薬の成分を発明するのでは、ニュアンスが違います。

This sentence highlights the subtle difference: inventing the component (the core idea) vs. developing the medicine (the whole product). Another word to consider is 考案する (kouan suru). While 'hatsumei' sounds like a world-changing event, 'kouan' is often used for a new system or a clever design for a tool. For example, 'atarashii koukoku no dezain o kouan suru' (to devise a new advertisement design).

制作する (Seisaku suru): To produce. Used for films, TV shows, and artworks. 'Bangumi o seisaku suru' (to produce a program).

彼は画期的なシステムを考案しました。

In this case, 'kouan' suggests the intellectual design rather than the physical 'hatsumei'. Lastly, there is 'Tsukuru' (作る). It is the most versatile and common. If you are ever in doubt, 'tsukuru' will be understood, but 'hatsumei' adds that layer of 'originality' and 'historical significance' that makes your Japanese sound more advanced and precise. Understanding these synonyms allows you to describe any creative act with the appropriate level of weight and formality.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

During the Meiji Restoration, 'hatsumei' was chosen as the standard translation for the English word 'invention' as Japan modernized its legal and scientific systems.

Guide de prononciation

UK hatsɯmeː sɯɾɯ

US hɑːtsuːmeɪ suːruː

The pitch accent is typically 'Heiban' (flat), meaning the pitch starts low and stays high throughout 'tsumei suru'.

Rime avec

Katsumei (割明 - rare) Setsumei (説明 - explanation) Betsumei (別名 - alias) Ketsumei (血盟 - blood alliance) Getsumei (月明 - moonlight) Zetsumei (絶命 - death) Teimei (低迷 - stagnation) Seimei (生命 - life)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'tu' (standard 't' sound).
Shortening the long 'ei' in 'mei'.
Putting too much stress on the first syllable.
Confusing the 'mei' sound with 'mai'.
Failing to pronounce the 'u' in 'suru' lightly.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The kanji are relatively common but require N3 level knowledge for fluid reading.

Écriture 4/5

Writing 'hatsu' and 'mei' correctly requires practice, especially the strokes in 'hatsu'.

Expression orale 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward as it follows standard 'suru' patterns.

Écoute 2/5

Easily recognizable due to the distinct 'tsu' and 'mei' sounds.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

作る (To make) 新しい (New) 人 (Person) 科学 (Science) 道具 (Tool)

Apprends ensuite

発見する (To discover) 開発する (To develop) 特許 (Patent) 技術 (Technology) 改善する (To improve)

Avancé

知的財産 (Intellectual property) 画期的 (Revolutionary) 試作 (Prototype) 独創的 (Original/Creative) 実用新案 (Utility model)

Grammaire à connaître

Suru-Verbs

発明する、勉強する、練習する

Passive Voice (~れる/〜られる)

発明される (To be invented)

Relative Clauses

彼が発明したカメラ (The camera he invented)

Desire Form (~たい)

発明したい (Want to invent)

Potential Form (~できる)

発明できる (Can invent)

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Exemples par niveau

エジソンは電球を発明しました。

Edison invented the lightbulb.

Simple past tense (shimashita).

だれが電話を発明しましたか？

Who invented the telephone?

Question form with 'dare' (who).

彼は新しいおもちゃを発明しました。

He invented a new toy.

Object marker 'o' used with 'atarashii' (new).

私は何かを発明したいです。

I want to invent something.

Desire form (~tai).

これはすごい発明です！

This is a great invention!

Used as a noun (hatsumei).

ベルは1876年に電話を発明しました。

Bell invented the telephone in 1876.

Time particle 'ni' used with the year.

日本人はインスタントラーメンを発明しました。

Japanese people invented instant ramen.

Subject 'Nihonjin' (Japanese people).

おじいさんは便利な道具を発明しました。

My grandfather invented a convenient tool.

Adjective 'benri-na' (convenient).

将来、空を飛ぶ車を発明したいです。

In the future, I want to invent a flying car.

Relative clause 'sora o tobu' (flying) modifying 'kuruma' (car).

これはだれが発明した道具ですか？

Who is the person who invented this tool?

Plain past form 'hatsumei shita' used as a modifier.

新しいゲームを発明するのは楽しいです。

Inventing a new game is fun.

Nominalizer 'no' (hatsumei suru no) to make the verb a subject.

彼は便利な消しゴムを発明しました。

He invented a convenient eraser.

Transitive verb usage.

ライト兄弟は飛行機を発明しました。

The Wright brothers invented the airplane.

Historical subject.

何か新しいものを発明できるかもしれません。

I might be able to invent something new.

Potential form 'hatsumei dekiru' + 'kamoshirenai' (might).

この発明は世界を変えました。

This invention changed the world.

Noun 'hatsumei' as the subject.

彼は毎日、新しいロボットを発明しようとしています。

He is trying to invent a new robot every day.

Volitional form + 'to shite iru' (trying to).

この機械は日本人によって発明されました。

This machine was invented by a Japanese person.

Passive voice 'hatsumei saremashita' with 'ni yotte'.

発明されたばかりの技術を試してみましょう。

Let's try out the technology that has just been invented.

'Bakari' (just finished) modifying 'gijutsu'.

彼は多くの役に立つものを発明したことで有名です。

He is famous for having invented many useful things.

'Koto de' (for the reason of) used with a nominalized clause.

もし私が不老不死の薬を発明したら、どうしますか？

If I invented a medicine for immortality, what would you do?

Conditional 'tara' form.

彼はエジソンに負けないくらいの発明をしたいと言っています。

He says he wants to make inventions as great as Edison's.

'Makenai kurai' (to the extent of not losing/being as good as).

インターネットが発明されてから、生活が大きく変わりました。

Since the internet was invented, life has changed significantly.

'Te-form' + 'kara' (since).

新しいエネルギー源を発明することが、今の目標です。

Inventing a new energy source is my current goal.

Nominalized verb clause as a subject.

誰でも発明家になれるチャンスがあります。

Everyone has a chance to become an inventor.

Noun 'hatsumeika' (inventor).

画期的な新技術を発明したことが、特許の取得につながった。

Inventing a revolutionary new technology led to obtaining a patent.

'Koto' (the fact that) + 'ni tsunagatta' (led to).

彼は偶然、その新しいプラスチックを発明したと言われている。

It is said that he invented that new plastic by chance.

'To iwarete iru' (it is said that).

この発明が社会にどのような影響を与えるか、慎重に検討すべきだ。

We should carefully consider what kind of impact this invention will have on society.

Embedded question with 'ka'.

発明する際には、既存の特許を侵害していないか確認する必要がある。

When inventing something, it is necessary to check if you are infringing on existing patents.

'Sai ni wa' (at the time of/when).

彼女は、独自の理論に基づいて新しい計算機を発明した。

She invented a new calculator based on her own unique theory.

'Ni motoduite' (based on).

発明した製品がヒットするかどうかは、マーケティング次第だ。

Whether the invented product becomes a hit depends on the marketing.

'Shidai' (depends on).

失敗を恐れずに発明し続けることが、科学の進歩には不可欠だ。

Continuing to invent without fear of failure is essential for scientific progress.

'Zu ni' (without) + 'hatsumei shi-tsudukeru' (continue inventing).

この発明は、多くの人々の協力を得て完成した。

This invention was completed with the cooperation of many people.

Noun 'hatsumei' referring to the product.

人工知能が自律的に新しいアルゴリズムを発明する時代が到来した。

The era where artificial intelligence autonomously invents new algorithms has arrived.

Adverb 'jiritsu-teki ni' (autonomously).

職務発明の対価をめぐって、企業と社員の間で訴訟が起きている。

Lawsuits are occurring between companies and employees over compensation for inventions made as part of their duties.

'O megutte' (concerning/surrounding).

その発明家は、生涯を通じて1000件以上の特許を取得した。

That inventor obtained over 1,000 patents throughout his life.

'O tsuujite' (throughout/via).

伝統の発明という概念は、文化人類学において重要な議論の対象だ。

The concept of the 'invention of tradition' is a subject of important debate in cultural anthropology.

Abstract usage of 'hatsumei'.

彼は、自らが発明した手法を駆使して、難病の治療に挑んだ。

He challenged the treatment of intractable diseases by making full use of the methods he himself invented.

'Mizukara' (oneself) and 'kushi shite' (making full use of).

発明された技術が軍事転用されるリスクについても考慮しなければならない。

We must also consider the risk of invented technology being diverted for military use.

'Gunji ten'you' (military diversion).

彼の発明は、既存のパラダイムを根底から覆すものだった。

His invention was something that overturned the existing paradigm from its very foundation.

'Kontei kara kutsugaesu' (overturn from the foundation).

特許法における発明の定義を明確にすることは、法解釈上極めて重要だ。

Clarifying the definition of invention in patent law is extremely important for legal interpretation.

Highly formal academic/legal tone.

数学は人間によって発明されたのか、それとも発見されたのかという問いは、古くから哲学的な論争の的となってきた。

The question of whether mathematics was invented or discovered by humans has long been a subject of philosophical debate.

Complex 'no ka... no ka' (whether... or) structure.

明治期における「発明」という語の定着は、日本の近代化プロセスと密接に結びついている。

The establishment of the word 'hatsumei' during the Meiji period is closely linked to Japan's modernization process.

Historical linguistic analysis.

生成AIが「発明者」となり得るかという法的論争は、現在の知的財産権制度に根本的な再考を迫っている。

The legal debate over whether generative AI can be an 'inventor' is forcing a fundamental reconsideration of the current intellectual property system.

'Saiko o semaru' (force a reconsideration).

一見無価値に思える発見が、後に世紀の大発明へと昇華することもしばしばある。

It is often the case that a discovery that seems worthless at first glance later sublimes into a great invention of the century.

'Shouka suru' (sublime/transform into something higher).

言語の発明こそが、人類を他の動物から決定的に隔てる要因であったと言えよう。

It could be said that the invention of language was the factor that decisively separated humans from other animals.

'Koso' (emphatic particle) and 'ieyou' (it can be said).

彼は、自らの発明がもたらした倫理的ジレンマに、生涯苦悩し続けた。

He continued to suffer throughout his life from the ethical dilemmas brought about by his own invention.

'Motarashita' (brought about) and 'kunou shi-tsuduketa' (continued to suffer).

特許明細書における「発明の構成」の記述は、権利範囲を画定する上で決定的な役割を果たす。

The description of the 'structure of the invention' in a patent specification plays a decisive role in defining the scope of the rights.

Specific legal terminology ('kakutei suru', 'meisaisho').

技術革新のスピードが加速する中で、発明の概念そのものが流動化しつつある。

As the speed of technological innovation accelerates, the very concept of invention is becoming fluid.

'Tsutsu aru' (in the process of).

Collocations courantes

新技術を発明する

特許を発明する

偶然発明する

世紀の発明

独自に発明する

共同で発明する

発明の才

役に立つ発明

歴史的な発明

発明を奨励する

Phrases Courantes

発明の母

— The mother of invention. Usually used in the phrase 'Necessity is the mother of invention' (必要は発明の母).

必要は発明の母と言われるように、困った時に新しいアイデアが生まれる。

大発明

— A great invention. Used for something truly revolutionary.

これは歴史に残る大発明だ。

発明家

— An inventor. A person who invents things professionally or as a hobby.

彼は有名な発明家です。

特許発明

— A patented invention. A legal term for an invention that has been granted a patent.

この特許発明は我が社の強みだ。

職務発明

— Employee invention. An invention made by an employee as part of their job duties.

職務発明の規定を確認する。

世紀の大発明

— The great invention of the century. Hyperbolic praise for a breakthrough.

ついに世紀の大発明が完成した。

個人発明家

— An independent inventor. Someone who works alone rather than for a company.

彼は個人発明家として活動している。

共同発明

— Joint invention. An invention created by two or more people.

これはチームによる共同発明です。

未踏の発明

— An unprecedented invention. Something in a field never explored before.

未踏の発明に挑む。

実用的発明

— A practical invention. Something useful in daily life.

彼は多くの実用的発明を世に送り出した。

Souvent confondu avec

発明する vs 発見する

Discovery (finding something that already exists).

発明する vs 開発する

Development (improving or building upon something).

発明する vs 創造する

Creation (more abstract/artistic/divine).

Expressions idiomatiques

"必要は発明の母"

— Necessity is the mother of invention. Difficult situations inspire people to create new solutions.

必要は発明の母というが、不便だからこそ新しい道具が生まれた。

Proverb

"車輪の再発明"

— Reinventing the wheel. To waste time creating something that already exists.

既存のライブラリを使わずに自分で作るのは、車輪の再発明だ。

Technical/Idiomatic

"空想上の発明"

— An imaginary invention. Something that only exists in sci-fi or dreams.

それはまだ空想上の発明に過ぎない。

Neutral

"嘘を発明する"

— To invent a lie. To fabricate a story (metaphorical usage).

彼は言い訳のために嘘を発明した。

Informal

"世紀の珍発明"

— The weird invention of the century. Used for useless or funny gadgets.

テレビで世紀の珍発明を紹介している。

Casual/Humorous

"発明の才に恵まれる"

— To be blessed with a talent for invention.

彼は生まれつき発明の才に恵まれていた。

Formal

"新機軸を打ち出す"

— To launch a new invention or revolutionary idea (related idiom).

その企業は市場に新機軸を打ち出した。

Business

"無から有を生む"

— To create something from nothing (the essence of invention).

発明とは、まさに無から有を生む作業だ。

Literary

"知恵を絞る"

— To rack one's brains (how inventions are made).

知恵を絞って、新しい道具を発明した。

Neutral

"目から鱗が落ちる"

— The scales fall from one's eyes (the feeling of seeing a great invention).

その発明を見て、目から鱗が落ちた。

Idiomatic

Facile à confondre

発明する vs 発見する

Both involve finding or bringing forth something new to the world.

Hatsumei is for man-made things (invention). Hakken is for things that already existed in nature or reality (discovery). You invent a lightbulb, but discover a star.

コロンブスはアメリカを【発見】したが、エジソンは電球を【発明】した。

発明する vs 開発する

Both are used in technology and science.

Hatsumei is the initial creation of a brand new concept or device. Kaihatsu is the process of making that invention practical, scalable, or better. Software is almost always 'kaihatsu'.

新しいエンジンを【発明】し、その後、車を【開発】した。

発明する vs 作る

Both mean 'to make'.

Tsukuru is a general word for making anything (dinner, a chair, a mistake). Hatsumei is only for creating something that has never existed before in history.

夕食を【作る】のは簡単だが、新しい料理を【発明】するのは難しい。

発明する vs 考案する

Both mean devising something new.

Hatsumei sounds more significant and often involves a physical object. Kouan is often used for designs, systems, or clever ideas that might not be 'inventions' in the historical sense.

彼は新しいロゴのデザインを【考案】した。

発明する vs 創作する

Both involve original creation.

Sousaku is specifically for creative works like stories, art, and music. Hatsumei is for technical or scientific things.

彼は美しい物語を【創作】した。

Structures de phrases

[Person] は [Object] を発明しました。

エジソンは電球を発明しました。

[Object] を発明するのは [Adjective] です。

新しいロボットを発明するのは難しいです。

[Object] は [Person] によって発明されました。

電話はベルによって発明されました。

[Person] が発明した [Object]

彼が発明した新しい薬

[Object] を発明したことで [Result]。

新技術を発明したことで、会社は成功した。

[Object] を発明する際に [Action]。

発明する際に、注意深く実験を行った。

[Concept] の発明こそが [Result]。

文字の発明こそが文明の始まりだった。

[Object] が発明された背景には [Reason] がある。

その機械が発明された背景には、深刻な労働力不足がある。

Famille de mots

Noms

発明 (hatsumei - invention)

発明家 (hatsumeika - inventor)

発明品 (hatsumeihin - invented item)

大発明 (daihatsumei - great invention)

Verbes

発明する (hatsumei suru - to invent)

発明される (hatsumei sareru - to be invented)

発明できる (hatsumei dekiru - can invent)

Adjectifs

発明的な (hatsumei-teki na - inventive/creative)

発明好きの (hatsumei-zuki no - fond of inventing)

Apparenté

発見 (hakken - discovery)

特許 (tokkyo - patent)

技術 (gijutsu - technology)

考案 (kouan - device/design)

創造 (souzou - creation)

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in educational, historical, and technological contexts. Rare in casual daily chores.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'hatsumei' for natural discoveries. → Newton wa juuryoku o hakken shita.
Gravity existed before Newton; he just found it. Use 'hakken' (discovery) for natural laws.
Using 'hatsumei' for making a meal. → Atarashii ryouri o kangaeta.
'Hatsumei' is too heavy for cooking. Use 'kangaeta' (thought of) or 'tsukutta' (made).
Forgetting 'suru' in the verb form. → Kare wa nani o hatsumei shimashita ka?
'Hatsumei' is a noun. You must add 'suru' (or its conjugated forms) to use it as a verb.
Confusing 'hatsumei' with 'kaihatsu' for software. → Atarashii apuri o kaihatsu shita.
Software is developed ('kaihatsu'), not invented ('hatsumei'), in common parlance.
Using the 'ni' particle for the object. → Denkyuu o hatsumei suru.
It is a transitive verb. The thing being invented takes the 'o' particle.

Astuces

Use the Passive Voice

When talking about history, use 'hatsumei sareta' (was invented). It makes you sound more like a native speaker and less like a textbook.

Pair with 'Tokkyo'

If you are using 'hatsumei,' you should also know 'tokkyo' (patent). They go together like 'bread and butter' in professional Japanese.

Monozukuri Spirit

Understand that 'hatsumei' is tied to the Japanese concept of 'Monozukuri.' It's not just about the idea, but the craft and quality of the creation.

Bright Start

Remember: Hatsu (Start) + Mei (Bright). Every invention is a bright start for a new era.

Hatsumei vs Hakken

Always double-check: Did humans make it? (Hatsumei). Was it already there? (Hakken). This is the most common mistake for learners.

Enthusiasm

When you say 'Sore wa hatsumei desu ne!', use an enthusiastic tone. It's a high compliment for someone's cleverness.

Kanji Accuracy

Pay attention to the top part of 'hatsu' (発). It looks like 'legs' stepping out, which fits the meaning of 'starting' or 'emitting'.

Context Cues

If you hear a date and a famous person's name followed by 'hatsumei,' you are likely listening to a historical fact.

Don't Overuse

Avoid using 'hatsumei' for trivial things like a new way to fold clothes, unless you are being funny. Use 'kufu' (clever way) instead.

Employee Inventions

If you work in Japan, learn 'shokumu hatsumei' (job-related invention). It's an important legal term for your contracts.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Hatsu' (Start) and 'Mei' (Bright). An invention is the *start* of a *bright* new idea that lights up the world.

Association visuelle

Imagine a lightbulb (Edison's invention) popping up over someone's head. The light is 'Mei' (Bright) and it just 'Hatsu' (appeared/started).

Word Web

Edison Patent Technology New Idea Robot Laboratory Future

Défi

Try to name three things in your room that were 'hatsumei sareta' (invented) in the last 100 years. Write them down in Japanese.

Origine du mot

The word 'hatsumei' originated from classical Chinese. In its early usage, it meant to clarify or illuminate a truth.

Sens originel : To bring light to something hidden or to clarify a difficult concept.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, but be careful not to use it for 'discovering' indigenous lands or natural facts, as that would be 'hakken'.

In English, 'invent' can sometimes be used for excuses ('inventing a story'), but in Japanese, 'hatsumei' is strictly for technical or tangible creations.

Thomas Edison (often called the 'King of Invention' in Japan). Momofuku Ando (inventor of instant ramen). Dr. NakaMats (a famous and eccentric Japanese inventor).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

History Class

歴史を変える発明
産業革命の発明
古代の発明
発明の歴史

Business/Legal

特許を出願する
職務発明規定
新製品の発明
発明の権利

Science Lab

新素材を発明する
実験から生まれた発明
画期的な発明
発明を実用化する

Casual Conversation

面白い発明
これ、私の発明です
天才的な発明
変な発明

Children's Stories

魔法のような発明
未来の発明家
夢の発明
発明ロボット

Amorces de conversation

"もし何でも発明できるなら、何を作りたいですか？ (If you could invent anything, what would you make?)"

"歴史上、最も重要な発明は何だと思いますか？ (What do you think is the most important invention in history?)"

"最近、何か便利なものを発明しましたか？ (Have you invented anything convenient lately?)"

"日本の発明で一番すごいと思うものは何ですか？ (What do you think is the most amazing Japanese invention?)"

"発明家になるには、どんな能力が必要だと思いますか？ (What skills do you think are necessary to become an inventor?)"

Sujets d'écriture

私が発明したい未来の道具について書いてください。 (Write about a future tool you want to invent.)

あなたが一番よく使う発明品と、それがなぜ重要かを説明してください。 (Explain the invention you use most and why it's important.)

もしインターネットが発明されていなかったら、世界はどうなっていたでしょうか？ (What would the world be like if the internet hadn't been invented?)

「必要は発明の母」という言葉について、あなたの経験を書いてください。 (Write about your experience regarding the phrase 'Necessity is the mother of invention'.)

あなたが尊敬する発明家とその理由を教えてください。 (Tell me about an inventor you respect and why.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Technically, you could if the recipe uses a revolutionary new method, but it sounds very exaggerated. Usually, people use 'kangaeta' (thought up) or 'atarashii ryouri o tsukutta' (made a new dish).

It is both. 'Hatsumei' is the noun (invention). By adding 'suru,' it becomes the verb (to invent).

An inventor is called a 'hatsumeika' (発明家). The suffix '-ka' indicates a specialist or professional.

In Japanese, it is 'Hitsuyou wa hatsumei no haha' (必要は発明の母).

This is a hot topic in Japan. Currently, Japanese patent law defines an inventor as a human, so legally AI cannot 'hatsumei suru,' but linguistically people are starting to use it that way.

'Hatsumei' is for major, often patentable inventions. 'Kouan' is more for clever designs, plans, or smaller practical improvements.

Usually, 'kaihatsu' (develop) is used for software. However, if the underlying algorithm is a brand new, unique concept, it might be called a 'hatsumei' in a patent context.

'Chindogu' (珍道具) are 'rare tools' or weird inventions that solve a problem but are too impractical to use. They are a famous part of Japanese humor culture.

It conjugates like 'suru': hatsumei shimasu (polite), hatsumei shinai (negative), hatsumei shita (past), hatsumei dekiru (potential).

Many consider the 'blue LED' or 'instant ramen' to be the most impactful Japanese inventions.

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