恒久 en 30 secondes
- Means 'perpetual' or 'permanent'.
- Used in formal, legal, and political contexts.
- Commonly paired with 'peace' (平和) and 'measures' (対策).
- Formal alternative to 'zutto' or 'eien'.
The Japanese word 恒久 (こうきゅう, kōkyū) is a sophisticated noun and No-adjective that translates to 'permanence,' 'perpetuity,' or 'eternity.' Unlike more common words for 'forever' like 永遠 (eien), 恒久 is deeply rooted in institutional, legal, and social contexts. It suggests a state that is intended to remain unchanged and functional over a vast stretch of time, often through human effort or systemic design. When you encounter this word, you are likely looking at a document regarding international relations, environmental policy, or constitutional law. It carries a weight of responsibility and formal commitment that simpler terms lack.
- Political Context
- Used in phrases like 恒久平和 (kōkyū heiwa - perpetual peace) to describe a peace that is not merely a ceasefire but a structural state of non-conflict.
- Legal Context
- Refers to laws (恒久法 - kōkyūhō) that are meant to be standing statutes, as opposed to temporary emergency measures (時限法 - jigenhō).
- Technical/Engineering
- Describes structures or solutions intended to last indefinitely, such as 恒久対策 (kōkyū taisaku - permanent measures) to solve a recurring technical flaw.
私たちは世界の恒久平和を願っています。(We pray for the perpetual peace of the world.)
Understanding the nuance of 恒久 requires looking at its kanji. 恒 (kō) represents 'constancy' or 'always,' while 久 (kyū) represents 'a long time.' Together, they form a concept of 'constancy over a long time.' In daily conversation, Japanese people rarely use this word to describe personal feelings, like 'I will love you forever.' For those situations, 永遠 (eien) is preferred. 恒久 is reserved for things that are built, enacted, or established to stand the test of time. It is a word of the public sphere, the courtroom, and the history book.
この法律は恒久的な措置として導入された。(This law was introduced as a permanent measure.)
In business, you might hear the term 恒久化 (kōkyūka), which means 'making something permanent.' For example, if a company trials remote work and then decides to keep it forever, they are 'kōkyūka-ing' the remote work policy. This transition from 'temporary' (臨時 - rinji) to 'permanent' (恒久) is a common theme in Japanese corporate and political news. It signals a definitive shift in strategy or philosophy.
特例措置の恒久化が議論されている。(The permanent implementation of special measures is being discussed.)
環境保護のための恒久的な枠組みが必要だ。(A permanent framework for environmental protection is necessary.)
Finally, consider the antonyms. While 恒久 means permanent, its opposites are 臨時 (rinji - temporary/extraordinary) or 一時的 (ichijiteki - temporary/momentary). If a problem keeps coming back, a manager might say, 'We need a 恒久対策 (permanent measure), not just an 一時的な処置 (temporary treatment).' This distinction is vital for effective communication in professional Japanese environments.
- Summary of Usage
- Focus on systems, peace, and long-term solutions. Use in formal writing or professional discussions about stability.
Using 恒久 (kōkyū) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role and its specific collocations. Because it is a formal noun, it often functions as a 'No-adjective' (恒久の) or takes the suffix 的 to become a 'Na-adjective' (恒久的な). Here we will explore how to integrate it into various sentence structures to express permanence in a sophisticated manner.
- As a No-Adjective (Noun + の)
- This is common in fixed titles or formal declarations. For example, 恒久の平和 (peace of a permanent nature).
- As a Na-Adjective (Noun + 的な)
- This is the most versatile way to describe something as permanent. 恒久的な解決 (a permanent solution).
- As a Verb (Noun + 化する)
- 恒久化 (kōkyūka) means 'to make permanent.' It is used when a temporary state is converted into a lasting one.
この施設は、地域の恒久的な発展に寄与するだろう。(This facility will likely contribute to the permanent development of the region.)
In the sentence above, 恒久的な is used to describe 'development' (発展). This implies that the development is not a short-term boom but a sustainable, long-lasting growth. This is a classic B2-level usage, where the speaker is discussing abstract social concepts. Another common usage involves 'measures' or 'countermeasures' (対策). When a bug is fixed in software, or a leak is fixed in a roof, a 'permanent fix' is a 恒久対策.
応急処置ではなく、恒久対策を講じる必要がある。(We need to take permanent measures, not just first-aid/emergency treatment.)
政府は、減税措置の恒久化を検討している。(The government is considering making the tax reduction measures permanent.)
When discussing laws, 恒久法 (kōkyūhō) is a specific term. Most laws are permanent until repealed, but some are passed with an expiration date (時限法). When a politician argues that a law should not have an expiration date, they are advocating for it to be a 恒久法. This level of vocabulary is essential for understanding Japanese news broadcasts (NHK News, etc.) or reading editorials in newspapers like the Asahi Shimbun or Nikkei.
その条約は、二国間の恒久的な友好関係を築くためのものだ。(That treaty is for building a permanent friendly relationship between the two countries.)
Finally, consider the use of 恒久 in philosophical or religious contexts, though it is less common than 永遠. When used here, it emphasizes the 'unchanging' nature of a truth or a state of being. 恒久不変 (kōkyū fuhen) is a four-kanji compound (yojijukugo) meaning 'permanently unchanging' or 'eternal and immutable.' It is a very high-level expression used to describe laws of nature or divine truths.
- Key Collocation Table
- 恒久平和 (Perpetual Peace), 恒久対策 (Permanent Countermeasure), 恒久法 (Permanent Law), 恒久化 (Permanent implementation), 恒久施設 (Permanent facility).
恒久 (kōkyū) is not a word you will hear frequently in a casual izakaya or while chatting with friends about a movie. It is a 'high-register' word. However, in specific environments, it is ubiquitous. If you live in Japan or work with Japanese professionals, knowing where to expect this word will help you decode the seriousness of the situation.
- 1. News and Politics
- Whenever the Diet (Japanese Parliament) discusses long-term legislation, the word 恒久法 (permanent law) appears. You will hear it on NHK News 7 or read it in the headlines of major newspapers. It signifies a shift from 'temporary emergency' to 'standard state.'
- 2. Corporate Boardrooms
- In business strategy meetings, executives talk about 恒久的な利益 (permanent/sustained profits) or 恒久対策 for a recurring product defect. If a manager uses this word, they are looking for a structural fix, not a quick patch.
- 3. Academic and Legal Writing
- The Constitution of Japan (日本国憲法) and various international treaties use 恒久 to define the nature of peace and human rights. It is a cornerstone of legal Japanese.
日本国憲法は、全世界の恒久の平和を念願している。(The Constitution of Japan desires the perpetual peace of the whole world.)
You might also hear this word in the context of urban planning. When a city builds a 恒久施設 (permanent facility) for the Olympics, it means the building will be used for decades after the games end, as opposed to a temporary stadium that gets torn down. This distinction is a major point of debate in Japanese public spending.
このバグに対する恒久対策を月曜日までに報告してください。(Please report a permanent fix for this bug by Monday.)
In summary, 恒久 is the word of 'The System.' It is the word used by people who are looking at the 'big picture' and the 'long haul.' If you are reading a lease agreement, a labor contract, or a peace treaty, 恒久 is the word that tells you, 'This is meant to last forever.'
歴史家は、その時代の恒久的な影響を分析した。(Historians analyzed the permanent influence of that era.)
While 恒久 (kōkyū) is a powerful word, it is easy to misuse if you don't understand its specific 'weight' and 'domain.' Many learners confuse it with other words for 'forever' or 'permanent.' Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.
- Mistake 1: Using 恒久 for Personal Feelings
- Incorrect: 私のあなたへの愛は恒久です (My love for you is kōkyū).
Correct: 私のあなたへの愛は永遠です (My love for you is eien).
Reason: 恒久 is too clinical and institutional for romance. 永遠 (eternity) is the poetic choice. - Mistake 2: Confusing 恒久 with 永久 (Eikyū)
- Incorrect: 恒久欠番 (Kōkyū ketsuban - Retired jersey number).
Correct: 永久欠番 (Eikyū ketsuban).
Reason: 永久 (Eikyū) is used for things that are physically or symbolically permanent forever. 恒久 is for things that are maintained as permanent by a system or law. - Mistake 3: Forgetting the 'Teki' (的な)
- Incorrect: 恒久解決 (Kōkyū kaiketsu).
Correct: 恒久的な解決 (Kōkyū-teki na kaiketsu).
Reason: Unless it's a fixed compound like 恒久平和, you usually need the adjective marker 的な to modify a noun.
× この契約は恒久です。
○ この契約は恒久的です。(This contract is permanent.)
Another mistake is using 恒久 when you mean 'consistent' (一貫した - ikkan shita). 恒久 means the *state* lasts forever, while 'consistent' means the *behavior* or *logic* doesn't change. If a person is always nice, they are 'consistent,' not 'permanent.'
× 恒久に愛してる。
○ 永遠に愛してる。(I love you forever.)
Finally, be careful with the word 恒常 (kōjō). While it shares the first kanji 恒, 恒常 means 'constant' or 'steady' (like 恒常性 - homeostasis). It describes a recurring state, whereas 恒久 describes a lasting state. If a temperature stays the same, it is 恒常. If a peace treaty lasts forever, it is 恒久.
- Comparison of 'Forever' Words
- 永遠 (Eien): Poetic, emotional, abstract.
永久 (Eikyū): Physical, absolute, total.
恒久 (Kōkyū): Institutional, legal, systemic.
Japanese has several words that translate to 'permanent' or 'eternal.' Choosing the right one depends entirely on the context and the 'flavor' of the permanence you wish to describe. Here is a breakdown of 恒久 versus its closest relatives.
- 恒久 (Kōkyū) vs. 永久 (Eikyū)
- 永久 is more common for physical things. A 'permanent magnet' is 永久磁石. A 'permanent tooth' is 永久歯. 恒久 is for social constructs like peace or laws. You wouldn't say 'permanent tooth' using 恒久.
- 恒久 (Kōkyū) vs. 永遠 (Eien)
- 永遠 is the word of poets and lovers. It refers to a timeless eternity. 恒久 is the word of bureaucrats and engineers. It refers to a perpetual state within the flow of time.
- 恒久 (Kōkyū) vs. 不変 (Fuhen)
- 不変 means 'unchanging.' Something could be 恒久 (permanent) but still undergo small changes. 不変 implies that the essence or form remains exactly the same forever.
この条約は地域の恒久的な安定を目指している。(This treaty aims for the permanent stability of the region.)
In business, you might also consider 永続 (eizoku). 永続 means 'sustainability' or 'lasting long.' It is often used for a company's longevity (企業の永続性). While 恒久 implies a fixed state, 永続 implies a continuous process of lasting. If you want a company to survive for 200 years, use 永続. If you want a specific policy to never change, use 恒久.
真理は不変であるが、制度は恒久的であるべきだ。(Truth is unchanging, but systems should be permanent.)
For things that are 'standing' or 'regular,' you might use 常設 (jōsetsu). A 'permanent exhibition' in a museum is a 常設展 (jōsetsu-ten). You would not use 恒久 here because 恒久 implies an abstract quality of time, while 常設 implies a physical presence of a facility. Choosing between these words shows a high level of Japanese proficiency.
- Summary Table
- Use 恒久 for: Peace, Laws, Systems.
Use 永久 for: Magnets, Teeth, Records.
Use 永遠 for: Love, Spirit, Universe.
Use 常設 for: Museums, Facilities.
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
While 恒久 sounds identical to 高級 (High-class), they have no relation. If you tell someone you want a 'Kōkyū life,' they might think you want luxury, not necessarily a permanent one!
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing it as 'Kokyu' (short vowels), which means 'breath'.
- Confusing it with 'Kōkyū' (High class/Expensive) - though they sound identical, context differentiates them.
- Dropping the 'u' sound at the end.
- Pronouncing 'kyu' as 'ki-yu' (two syllables).
- Using English 'O' which can be too short.
Niveau de difficulté
Kanji are somewhat complex, and the word is common in advanced reading materials like newspapers.
Writing 恒 (constancy) correctly requires attention to the radical and strokes. Used mainly in formal writing.
Pronunciation is simple, but knowing when it is appropriate to say is the challenge.
Can be confused with 'High class' (高級) if not paying attention to context.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Noun + 的な
恒久的な解決 (A permanent solution)
Noun + 化する
制度を恒久化する (To make a system permanent)
Noun + の + Noun
恒久の平和 (Perpetual peace)
Noun + 的に
恒久的に保存する (To preserve permanently)
Noun + 性
恒久性を求める (To seek permanence)
Exemples par niveau
ここは恒久平和の場所です。
This is a place of perpetual peace.
恒久 modifies 平和 (peace) directly.
ずっと続くことを恒久と言います。
Continuing forever is called 'kōkyū'.
Simple definition sentence.
恒久の平和を祈ります。
I pray for perpetual peace.
Uses the 'No-adjective' form.
このきまりは恒久です。
This rule is permanent.
Simple predicate usage.
恒久は「永遠」に似ています。
'Kōkyū' is similar to 'eternity'.
Comparison sentence.
恒久的な解決が必要です。
A permanent solution is needed.
Uses 'teki na' to modify a noun.
この建物は恒久施設です。
This building is a permanent facility.
Noun compounding.
世界が恒久に平和でありますように。
May the world be at peace forever.
Used as an adverbial phrase.
一時的ではなく、恒久的な対策を考えましょう。
Let's think of a permanent measure, not a temporary one.
Contrasts 一時的 (temporary) with 恒久的 (permanent).
その法律は恒久化されました。
That law was made permanent.
Uses the verb 恒久化する (to make permanent).
恒久的な平和を築くのは難しいです。
It is difficult to build a perpetual peace.
Gerund phrase with 築く (to build).
この会社は恒久的な発展を目指しています。
This company aims for permanent development.
Goal-oriented sentence with 目指す.
恒久対策を立てないと、また同じ問題が起きます。
If we don't make a permanent fix, the same problem will happen again.
Conditional sentence with ~ないと.
私たちは恒久の友好を誓いました。
We vowed perpetual friendship.
Formal 'No-adjective' usage.
この制度を恒久化することに賛成ですか？
Do you agree with making this system permanent?
Questioning a noun phrase.
恒久的な住居を見つけたいです。
I want to find a permanent residence.
Applying the word to a lifestyle context.
その場しのぎの対応ではなく、恒久的な解決策を提示してください。
Please present a permanent solution, not just a stopgap measure.
Uses その場しのぎ (stopgap/ad hoc).
この法律は時限法から恒久法へと変更された。
This law was changed from a temporary law to a permanent law.
Contrast between 時限法 and 恒久法.
恒久平和の実現には、国際的な協力が不可欠だ。
International cooperation is indispensable for realizing perpetual peace.
Uses 不可欠 (indispensable).
政府は特例措置を恒久化する方針を固めた。
The government has firmed up its policy to make the special measures permanent.
Uses 方針を固める (to solidify a policy).
このシステムは、恒久的なデータ保存を目的としている。
This system aims for permanent data storage.
Uses ~を目的としている (aims for...).
二国間の恒久的な友好関係を維持するのは容易ではない。
Maintaining a permanent friendly relationship between two countries is not easy.
Uses 容易ではない (not easy).
恒久的な施設として、この公園は設計された。
This park was designed as a permanent facility.
Passive voice usage.
彼はその問題に対して恒久対策を講じた。
He took permanent measures against that problem.
Uses 対策を講じる (to take measures).
日本国憲法の前文には、恒久平和の理念が記されている。
The preamble of the Constitution of Japan describes the ideal of perpetual peace.
Uses 前文 (preamble) and 理念 (ideal).
環境破壊を止めるためには、恒久的な枠組みが必要不可欠である。
To stop environmental destruction, a permanent framework is absolutely essential.
Uses 必要不可欠 (essential).
臨時雇用のスタッフを恒久化する計画が進んでいる。
Plans are underway to make temporary staff positions permanent.
Uses 臨時雇用 (temporary employment).
その条約は、地域における恒久的な安定に寄与することを目的としている。
The treaty aims to contribute to permanent stability in the region.
Uses 寄与する (to contribute).
恒久不変の真理を追求するのが科学の役割の一つだ。
Pursuing permanently unchanging truths is one of the roles of science.
Uses 恒久不変 (eternally unchanging).
この建物は、恒久的な強度を維持するように設計されている。
This building is designed to maintain permanent strength.
Uses 強度 (strength/durability).
一時的なブームで終わらせず、恒久的な文化として定着させたい。
I want to establish it as a permanent culture, not just let it end as a temporary boom.
Uses 定着させる (to establish/take root).
恒久的な解決を望むなら、根本的な原因を調査すべきだ。
If you want a permanent solution, you should investigate the root cause.
Uses 根本的 (fundamental/root).
国際社会における恒久平和の維持は、現代最大の課題である。
Maintaining perpetual peace in the international community is the greatest challenge of the modern era.
High-level political discourse.
特例法の恒久化を巡って、与野党間で激しい論争が繰り広げられた。
A fierce debate unfolded between the ruling and opposition parties over making the special law permanent.
Uses ~を巡って (concerning) and 繰り広げられる (to unfold).
恒久的な社会的基盤を確立することが、経済成長の鍵となる。
Establishing a permanent social foundation is the key to economic growth.
Uses 社会的基盤 (social foundation/infrastructure).
その作家は、人間の本質における恒久的なテーマを扱い続けている。
The author continues to deal with permanent themes in the essence of human nature.
Uses 人間の本質 (human essence).
一時的な利益供与は、恒久的な格差是正には繋がらない。
Temporary provision of benefits does not lead to a permanent correction of inequality.
Uses 格差是正 (correction of disparity).
恒久的な解決策を見出すためには、多角的な視点からの分析が不可欠だ。
In order to find a permanent solution, analysis from multiple perspectives is essential.
Uses 多角的な視点 (multilateral perspectives).
この条約の恒久性は、加盟国の強い意志によって支えられている。
The permanence of this treaty is supported by the strong will of the member states.
Uses 恒久性 (permanence) as a noun.
歴史的建造物の恒久的な保存を目的とした基金が設立された。
A fund was established with the aim of permanently preserving historical buildings.
Uses 基金 (fund) and 設立 (establishment).
法治国家としての恒久的な存立を危うくするような事態は避けねばならない。
We must avoid situations that would jeopardize our permanent existence as a nation ruled by law.
Uses 存立 (existence) and 危うくする (to jeopardize).
恒久不変の価値観を提唱する一方で、時代の変遷に応じた柔軟性も求められる。
While advocating for permanently unchanging values, flexibility in response to the changing times is also required.
Uses 提唱 (advocacy) and 変遷 (transition).
その学説の恒久的な妥当性については、今なお議論の余地がある。
There is still room for debate regarding the permanent validity of that theory.
Uses 妥当性 (validity) and 議論の余地 (room for debate).
制度の恒久化が、結果として組織の硬直化を招くリスクを孕んでいる。
The permanent implementation of a system carries the risk of leading to organizational rigidity.
Uses 硬直化 (rigidity) and リスクを孕む (to carry/be fraught with risk).
恒久的な平和の構築は、単なる紛争の欠如ではなく、正義の実現を内包する。
The construction of perpetual peace is not merely the absence of conflict but encompasses the realization of justice.
Uses 内包する (to include/connote).
哲学的な見地からすれば、この世に恒久的なものは何一つ存在しない。
From a philosophical standpoint, nothing permanent exists in this world.
Uses 見地 (standpoint).
宇宙の恒久的な法則を解明しようとする試みは、人類の飽くなき探究心に基づいている。
The attempt to elucidate the permanent laws of the universe is based on humanity's insatiable spirit of inquiry.
Uses 飽くなき探究心 (insatiable curiosity).
その政治家の功績は、恒久的な歴史の評価に耐えうるものである。
The achievements of that politician are capable of withstanding the permanent evaluation of history.
Uses 評価に耐えうる (capable of withstanding evaluation).
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— To earnestly desire perpetual peace. Used in formal speeches.
日本国憲法は恒久平和を念願しています。
— To take permanent measures. Used in business and engineering.
再発防止のため、恒久対策を講じました。
— Making a special exception permanent. Common in tax/law news.
税制特例の恒久化が焦点となっている。
— Permanent measures/steps. Used for official actions.
これは緊急避難的なものではなく、恒久的な措置だ。
— A permanent framework. Used in international relations.
新たな協力の恒久的な枠組みを作る。
— Permanent stability. Used for markets or politics.
市場の恒久的な安定に寄与する。
— Permanent development. Used for cities or companies.
地域の恒久的な発展を支える。
— Permanent influence. Used in history or science.
その出来事は社会に恒久的な影響を与えた。
— Permanent guarantee. Used in insurance or human rights.
生活の恒久的な保障を求める。
— Permanent residence. Used in immigration contexts.
恒久的な居住権を取得する。
Souvent confondu avec
Eikyū is for physical things (magnets) or absolute records. Kōkyū is for systemic/social things.
Eien is emotional/poetic (eternal love). Kōkyū is clinical/institutional (permanent measure).
Sounds identical but means 'high class' or 'expensive'. Context is key.
Expressions idiomatiques
— Permanently unchanging; immutable. Describes laws of nature.
世の中に恒久不変のものなどない。
Formal— Eternal and permanent for ten thousand generations.
万代恒久の平和を誓う。
Very Formal/Archaic— The definitive permanent measure that solves everything.
これが恒久対策の決定打となるはずだ。
Business/Informal— The foundation for permanence.
平和の恒久の礎を築く。
Literary— A trend toward making things permanent (like remote work).
在宅勤務、恒久化の波が広がっている。
Journalistic— To drive a permanent wedge (often meaning to establish a permanent presence).
市場に恒久的な楔を打ち込む。
Metaphorical— To enter eternal sleep (a euphemism for death).
彼は恒久の眠りについた。
Poetic/Rare— To leave a permanent footprint (legacy).
彼は科学界に恒久的な足跡を残した。
Formal— The eternal light of Buddhist teachings.
恒久の法灯を守り続ける。
Religious— A permanent vow or pledge.
恒久の契りを交わす。
LiteraryFacile à confondre
Shares the first kanji '恒'.
Kōjō means 'constant' or 'steady' (like a steady flow). Kōkyū means 'lasting forever'.
恒常的な欠乏 (A constant shortage).
Both mean 'lasting long'.
Eizoku emphasizes the act of continuing. Kōkyū emphasizes the fixed state of permanence.
企業の永続 (A company's survival/continuation).
Both imply staying the same.
Teijō is a technical term for a 'steady state' where input/output are balanced.
定常流 (Steady flow).
Both mean unchanging.
Fueki is a literary term, often used in Haiku or philosophy to mean 'timeless'.
不易流行 (The unchanging and the fashionable).
Both mean not ending.
Fukyū means 'immortal' or 'not decaying', usually used for masterpieces of art.
不朽の名作 (An immortal masterpiece).
Structures de phrases
Aではなく、B（恒久的なもの）が必要だ。
一時的な処置ではなく、恒久的な対策が必要です。
〜を恒久化する方針だ。
政府は特例を恒久化する方針だ。
〜の恒久的な発展に寄与する。
このプロジェクトは地域の恒久的な発展に寄与する。
恒久不変の〜を追求する。
哲学者は恒久不変の真理を追求する。
恒久的な枠組みを構築する。
平和のための恒久的な枠組みを構築する。
恒久の〜を祈る。
世界の恒久の平和を祈ります。
〜の恒久性に疑問を呈する。
専門家はその制度の恒久性に疑問を呈した。
恒久施設として利用する。
この建物は将来、恒久施設として利用される。
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Common in news, legal documents, and professional business reports. Rare in casual speech.
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Using 恒久 for romance.
→
永遠に愛してる。
恒久 sounds like a legal term; it's not romantic at all.
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Using 恒久 for physical objects like a permanent marker.
→
油性マジック (Yusei majikku).
恒久 is for abstract states, not physical properties of ink.
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Missing the 'ka' when you mean 'to make permanent'.
→
制度を恒久化する。
You cannot just say 恒久する. You must use 恒久化する.
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Confusing 恒久 with 高級 (High class).
→
高級な時計 (An expensive watch).
They sound the same, but the kanji and meaning are totally different.
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Using 恒久 for 'always' in a frequency sense.
→
いつも親切だ。
恒久 means 'permanently existing', not 'doing something every time'.
Astuces
Use in Reports
When writing a business report about a bug fix, use 恒久対策 to show that you have solved the problem forever, not just for now.
Institutional vs. Natural
Remember that 恒久 is institutional. If a mountain is permanent, use 永久. If a law is permanent, use 恒久.
Combining with 化
Adding 化 (ka) creates a verb: 恒久化する (to make permanent). This is very common in news about taxes and rules.
Pair with 平和
The most common pairing is 恒久平和. Memorize this as a single block of meaning.
Long Vowels
Don't rush the vowels. Kō-kyū. Both need to be held. Rushing them makes the word sound like 'breath'.
Formal Register
Save this word for formal writing, speeches, or serious professional discussions.
The Constant Queue
Think of a 'Constant Queue' that lasts forever to remember the sounds 'Kō' and 'Kyū'.
Vs. 永遠
If you are talking about something 'spiritual,' use 永遠. If you are talking about something 'structural,' use 恒久.
Look for NHK News
You will often see this word in the ticker tape or headlines of NHK news broadcasts.
Kanji Roots
The kanji 恒 appears in 'homeostasis' (恒常性). Thinking of it as 'maintaining a state' helps.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine a 'Constant' (恒) 'Queue' (久) that never ends. It's a permanent line!
Association visuelle
Imagine a stone monument with 'PEACE' written on it, deeply rooted in the ground, representing 恒久平和.
Word Web
Défi
Try to write three sentences using 恒久: one about peace, one about a rule, and one about a business decision.
Origine du mot
Derived from Middle Chinese. The character 恒 (kō) originally depicted a boat between two shores, symbolizing the steady flow or constancy. The character 久 (kyū) depicted a person being supported from behind, implying a long duration or waiting.
Sens originel : A constant state that lasts for a long duration.
Sino-Japanese (Kango).Contexte culturel
No specific sensitivities, but using it in casual conversation can make you sound overly stiff or robotic.
English speakers often use 'permanent' for everything from markers to jobs. In Japanese, 'permanent markers' are 'yuusei' (oil-based) and 'permanent jobs' are 'seishain' (regular employee). 恒久 is much more formal.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
International Politics
- 恒久平和の構築
- 恒久的な安全保障
- 恒久的な国境
- 恒久的な同盟
Legal/Taxation
- 恒久法の制定
- 減税の恒久化
- 恒久的な権利
- 恒久的な地位
Software Engineering
- 恒久対策の実施
- 恒久的な修正
- 恒久的なデータ
- 恒久的なリンク
Urban Planning
- 恒久施設の建設
- 恒久的な住居
- 恒久的なインフラ
- 恒久的な緑地
Philosophy
- 恒久不変の理
- 恒久的な幸福
- 恒久的な真実
- 恒久的な魂
Amorces de conversation
"「恒久平和」という言葉について、どう思いますか？"
"今の会社のルールで、恒久化してほしいものはありますか？"
"一時的な対策ではなく、恒久対策が必要な問題は何ですか？"
"この施設は恒久的なものですか、それとも臨時ですか？"
"恒久不変の価値観とは何だと思いますか？"
Sujets d'écriture
あなたの人生において、恒久的に変えたくない習慣は何ですか？200字程度で書いてください。
「恒久平和」を実現するために、私たちは何をすべきでしょうか？
仕事や勉強で、最近「恒久対策」を講じた経験について書いてください。
もしあなたが法律を作れるなら、どんな「恒久法」を作りますか？
「永遠」と「恒久」の違いについて、あなたの考えをまとめてください。
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNo, that would sound very strange. Use 永遠 (eien) for love and emotions. 恒久 is for things like peace treaties or laws. Using it for love sounds like you are signing a legal contract with your partner!
永久 (eikyū) is used for physical things like 'permanent magnets' (永久磁石) or 'permanent teeth' (永久歯). 恒久 (kōkyū) is used for abstract systems like 'perpetual peace' (恒久平和) or 'permanent laws' (恒久法).
Not really. You will hear it on the news or in business meetings, but you wouldn't use it while eating dinner with friends unless you were discussing politics or a complex work problem.
The most common way is to add 的な (teki na), making it 恒久的な. In very formal contexts, you can use the particle の, as in 恒久の平和.
Not exactly. Sustainability is usually 永続性 (eizokusei) or 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei). 恒久 means it is fixed as permanent, while sustainability means it has the ability to keep going.
It is a permanent law that does not have an expiration date. This is in contrast to a '時限法' (jigen-hō), which is a temporary law passed for a specific period.
After WWII, Japan's constitution and national identity focused on the idea of a peace that would last forever. 恒久平和 became the standard formal term for this 'perpetual peace'.
Yes, it is generally considered a B2 level word. It requires an understanding of formal kanji compounds and specific social contexts.
No. A permanent job or regular employee is called 正社員 (seishain). A permanent position in a general sense might be called 終身雇用 (lifetime employment).
It is a four-kanji idiom (yojijukugo) that means 'eternally unchanging.' It is used to describe absolute truths or the laws of the universe.
Teste-toi 200 questions
「恒久」を使って、世界平和についての短い文を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な対策」が必要な理由を簡単に説明しなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久化」という言葉を使って、会社のルールについての文を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久不変」という言葉を使って、真理についての文を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久法」と「時限法」の違いを日本語で説明しなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な発展」を願うメッセージを地域のリーダーに向けて書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な解決」という言葉を使って、環境問題についての文を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な地位」を築くために必要なことを書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な施設」としての公園の役割について書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な安定」を市場にもたらすための提案を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久」と「永遠」の使い分けについて、例文を挙げて説明しなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な影響」を与えた歴史的事件について書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な保障」を求める人々の気持ちを書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な枠組み」という言葉を使って、国際協力についての文を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な住居」を手に入れた時の気持ちを想像して書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な差別」をなくすための社会の責任について書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的なデータ保存」の重要性について書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な利益」を優先する経営について意見を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久的な友好」を誓うスピーチの冒頭を書きなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久」という言葉を使って、座右の銘を考えなさい。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
「恒久平和」という言葉を使って、あなたの願いを声に出して言いなさい。
Read this aloud:
Tu as dit :
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「恒久的な対策が必要です」と上司に報告する練習をしなさい。
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「特例を恒久化すべきだ」という意見を述べる練習をしなさい。
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「恒久不変の真理」について、自分の考えを短く話しなさい。
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「恒久的な解決策」を提案するプレゼンの冒頭を話しなさい。
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「恒久的な発展」を祈るスピーチを地域の祭りで言いなさい。
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「恒久的な安定」を求める市場の声を代弁しなさい。
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「恒久施設」としての利用価値について説明しなさい。
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「恒久的な足跡」を残した人物について紹介しなさい。
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「恒久的な地位」を確立した喜びを話しなさい。
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「恒久的な友好」を誓う乾杯の挨拶をしなさい。
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「恒久的な解決」を目指す決意を語りなさい。
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「恒久的な枠組み」の必要性を国際会議で訴えなさい。
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「恒久的な保障」について、市民の立場から意見を言いなさい。
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「恒久不変の愛」という表現について、詩的に話しなさい。
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「恒久的な利益」を重視する経営方針を説明しなさい。
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「恒久的な差別」を撤廃するためのスピーチをしなさい。
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「恒久的な居住」を希望する理由を面接で話しなさい。
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「恒久的な影響」について、歴史的な視点から語りなさい。
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「恒久」という言葉の響きについて感想を言いなさい。
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ニュースで「減税の恒久化」と言っていました。どういう意味ですか？
「恒久対策を講じる」と聞こえました。何をするつもりですか？
「恒久平和」という言葉が聞こえたとき、話し手は何を祈っていますか？
「恒久施設」という言葉が聞こえました。その建物はどうなりますか？
「恒久法として成立」と聞こえました。その法律に期限はありますか？
「恒久的な発展」という言葉が聞こえたら、どんなポジティブなイメージですか？
「恒久不変」と聞こえたとき、何が語られていますか？
「恒久的な解決」が必要だと言われました。今の対策はどうですか？
「恒久的な足跡」と聞こえたら、その人は歴史にどう残りますか？
「恒久的な枠組み」が合意されたら、国際関係はどうなりますか？
「恒久的な地位」を失ったと聞こえたら、その人はどうなりましたか？
「恒久的な保障」が議論されているとき、どんな不安がありますか？
「恒久的な安定」と聞こえたら、市場の様子はどうですか？
「恒久的な友好」を誓う場面は、どのような雰囲気ですか？
「恒久的な影響」と聞こえたら、それは最近のことですか？
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
恒久 (kōkyū) is a high-level word for 'permanence' used for systems, laws, and peace. It implies a structural, long-term commitment. Example: 恒久平和 (Perpetual Peace).
- Means 'perpetual' or 'permanent'.
- Used in formal, legal, and political contexts.
- Commonly paired with 'peace' (平和) and 'measures' (対策).
- Formal alternative to 'zutto' or 'eien'.
Use in Reports
When writing a business report about a bug fix, use 恒久対策 to show that you have solved the problem forever, not just for now.
Institutional vs. Natural
Remember that 恒久 is institutional. If a mountain is permanent, use 永久. If a law is permanent, use 恒久.
Combining with 化
Adding 化 (ka) creates a verb: 恒久化する (to make permanent). This is very common in news about taxes and rules.
Pair with 平和
The most common pairing is 恒久平和. Memorize this as a single block of meaning.
Exemple
世界各国は、恒久的な平和を求めている。
