このページをあなたの言語で

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

ホーム
学習
日本語
語彙
根源的な

B1 adjective #4,500 よく出る 7分で読める

根源的な

kongenteki na 上位4,500

練習する例文メモとヒント 根源的な 30秒で

解説 根源的な in your Level:

At the A1 level, '根源的な' (kongenteki na) is far too advanced for daily use. However, we can understand it by looking at its first kanji, 根 (ne), which means 'root' like a tree root. Imagine a tree. The leaves are what we see, but the root is under the ground. 'Kongenteki' is like that root. It means the 'starting point' or the 'very bottom' of something. Even though you won't use this word yet, remember that in Japanese, many big words are made of small, simple pictures. 根 (root) + 源 (source) = the very beginning. For now, stick to 'daiji' (important) or 'kihon' (basic), but keep this 'root' image in your mind for later.

無料登録して完全な解説を読む

As an A2 learner, you are starting to use more adjectives. '根源的な' is a 'na-adjective' that means 'fundamental.' You might see it in simple science books or news headlines. Think of it as a stronger version of 'kihon' (basic). While 'kihon' is like 'Step 1' of a recipe, 'kongenteki' is like the 'reason' people eat food. It's much deeper. You might use it to describe a 'big problem' that is at the heart of everything. For example, 'kongenteki na mondai' (a fundamental problem). It's a formal word, so you don't need to say it when talking to friends, but it's good to recognize it in reading.

無料登録して完全な解説を読む

At the B1 level, you are moving into abstract topics like society, environment, and personal feelings. '根源的な' is a great word to add to your vocabulary for these discussions. It allows you to talk about 'radical' or 'fundamental' aspects of a topic. Instead of just saying a problem is 'ookii' (big), you can say it is 'kongenteki' (fundamental), which means it goes all the way to the source. This is the level where you start seeing this word in Japanese news (like NHK Easy News) and intermediate textbooks. You should practice using it with nouns like 'yokkyu' (desire) or 'gimon' (question/doubt).

At B2, you are expected to handle complex arguments. '根源的な' is essential for this. It helps you distinguish between 'surface-level' issues and 'root' issues. In a debate about climate change, you wouldn't just talk about the weather; you would talk about '根源的な原因' (the fundamental causes) like human behavior or economic systems. You should also be able to distinguish 'kongenteki na' from 'honshitsuteki na' (essential). 'Kongenteki' focuses on where something comes from (the source), while 'honshitsuteki' focuses on what something is (the essence). Using this word correctly shows you have a high level of linguistic nuance.

無料登録して完全な解説を読む

For C1 learners, '根源的な' is a tool for philosophical and academic precision. You will encounter it in literature (like Soseki or Abe Kobo) to describe existential states—'根源的な孤独' (primordial loneliness) or '根源的な不安' (fundamental anxiety). At this level, you should also understand its use in scientific contexts, such as '根源的な力' (fundamental forces of nature). You should be comfortable using it in formal writing, such as essays or reports, to argue that a situation requires not just 'kaizen' (improvement) but 'kongenteki na henka' (fundamental/radical change). It signals a deep, structural analysis of any subject matter.

無料登録して完全な解説を読む

At the C2 level, you use '根源的な' with the ease of a native speaker in highly specialized fields. Whether you are discussing legal philosophy (the 'root' of law), ontological questions in metaphysics, or radical structuralism in linguistics, this word is your scalpel. You understand that 'kongenteki' implies an irreducibility—that you have reached the 'source' beyond which you cannot go further. You can use it to critique theories, noting that they fail to address the '根源的な矛盾' (fundamental contradiction) within a system. Your mastery includes knowing exactly when *not* to use it to avoid sounding overly 'katai' (stiff), using it only when the gravity of the subject demands it.

無料登録して完全な解説を読む

練習する例文メモとヒント

根源的な 30秒で

Means 'fundamental' or 'radical' in a deep, philosophical sense.
Used for root causes, basic human desires, and scientific laws.
A formal 'na-adjective' common in academic and serious contexts.
Contrasts with 'kihonteki' (basic) by focusing on the 'source' rather than 'simplicity'.

The Japanese word 根源的な (kongenteki na) is an evocative and sophisticated adjective that probes the deepest layers of existence, causality, and nature. At its core, it is composed of three kanji: 根 (root), 源 (source), and 的 (a suffix making it an adjective). When combined, they describe something that pertains to the very origin or the most basic, irreducible essence of a subject. While English words like 'fundamental,' 'radical,' or 'primal' serve as translations, 根源的な carries a philosophical weight that suggests you are looking at the 'seed' from which everything else grew. It is not merely 'basic' in the sense of being simple; it is 'basic' in the sense of being the foundation upon which everything else is built. You will encounter this word in academic papers, philosophical debates, high-level political discourse, and scientific inquiries where the focus is on the root cause rather than the symptoms of a problem.

Philosophical Depth: It refers to the ontological 'why' of a situation, addressing the ultimate source of a phenomenon.
Scientific Precision: Used to describe the first principles or the radical elements that constitute a physical or biological system.
Social Criticism: Often used when discussing the need for 'radical' reform—reform that changes the very nature of a system from the ground up.

私たちは、この社会問題の根源的な原因を究明しなければならない。
(We must investigate the fundamental/root cause of this social problem.)

In everyday conversation, this word is rare because it sounds quite formal and intellectual. However, if you are discussing human nature, the meaning of life, or deep-seated psychological desires (根源的な欲求), this word becomes indispensable. It implies a level of seriousness and depth that 'kihonteki' (basic) simply lacks. When a scientist speaks of 根源的な力 (fundamental forces), they are referring to gravity or electromagnetism—the building blocks of the universe. When a reformer calls for 根源的な変革 (radical transformation), they aren't looking for a few policy tweaks; they want to rewrite the entire social contract. Understanding this word allows you to navigate high-level Japanese media and literature with much greater clarity.

Using 根源的な correctly requires an understanding of its 'na-adjective' grammar and the specific nouns it typically modifies. Because it deals with 'roots' and 'origins,' it is almost always followed by abstract nouns that represent complex systems, human emotions, or intellectual inquiries. It functions as a modifier that elevates the noun to a state of primal importance. For example, while 'a problem' (mondai) is common, a 'kongenteki na mondai' is a problem that, if solved, would cause all other related problems to vanish. It is the 'master key' of issues. Structurally, it follows the pattern: [Noun] + は + [根源的な] + [Noun] + だ/である.

Modifying Human Nature: Used with words like 欲求 (desire), 恐怖 (fear), or 喜び (joy) to describe feelings that are hard-wired into the human experience.
Modifying Structural Change: Used with 改革 (reform), 変化 (change), or 転換 (conversion) to indicate a shift that starts from zero.

愛されたいというのは、人間の根源的な欲求の一つだ。
(The desire to be loved is one of the fundamental human desires.)

その理論は、物理学に対する私たちの理解を根源的なレベルで覆した。
(That theory overturned our understanding of physics at a fundamental level.)

When you want to emphasize that something isn't just a surface-level detail, you use 根源的な. If you are debating and your opponent is focusing on minor details, you might say, 'More importantly, there is a fundamental (根源的な) issue here.' This directs the conversation back to the core. Note that while it is a 'na-adjective,' it is rarely used in the '~ni' adverbial form (根源的に) compared to other adjectives, though it is possible when describing how something changes or is understood. Usually, it stays firmly attached to the noun it defines, acting as a powerful descriptor of essence.

You are unlikely to hear 根源的な while buying groceries or chatting about the weather. This word lives in the 'high-register' world of Japanese. It is a staple of NHK documentaries, particularly those focusing on space, deep-sea exploration, or the history of civilizations. In these contexts, the narrator might speak of the '根源的な謎' (fundamental mystery) of the universe. It is also extremely common in university lecture halls, especially in the humanities and social sciences. A professor of sociology might discuss the '根源的な不平等' (fundamental inequality) present in modern capitalism.

In literature, authors use 根源的な to describe the internal struggles of their characters. Haruki Murakami or Natsume Soseki might use it to describe a character's '根源的な孤独' (fundamental loneliness)—a loneliness that isn't caused by being alone, but is a part of being human. Furthermore, in the corporate world, during a 'crisis meeting,' a CEO might use this word to signal that the company needs to stop looking at quarterly profits and look at their '根源的な価値' (fundamental value) to the customer. It is a word that demands attention and signals that the speaker is thinking deeply and broadly.

News & Politics: Discussing 'root causes' of inflation or international conflict.
Science & Philosophy: Defining the laws of nature or the essence of 'being'.

The most common mistake learners make with 根源的な is using it for 'basic' or 'simple' things. In English, 'fundamental' can sometimes be used loosely (e.g., 'the fundamental steps of cooking'). In Japanese, if you use 根源的な to describe how to chop an onion, it will sound bizarrely dramatic—as if you are suggesting that onion-chopping is the primal source of all culinary existence. For 'basic' skills or steps, use 基本的な (kihonteki na) or 初歩的な (shohoteki na).

❌ 根源的な数学を勉強する。
(Studying fundamental math - sounds like you're redefining the concept of numbers themselves.)
✅ 基本的な数学を勉強する。
(Studying basic math - correct for school levels.)

Another mistake is confusing it with 本質的な (honshitsuteki na). While they are close, 'honshitsuteki' means 'essential' or 'to the point.' If a meeting is drifting, you might ask for an 'essential' (honshitsuteki) discussion. If you use 'kongenteki,' you are asking to discuss why the meeting exists in the first place. Use 根源的な only when you are talking about the *origin* or the *deepest foundation*. Finally, remember that it is a *na-adjective*. Do not forget the 'na' when modifying a noun, and do not try to use it as a verb. It is a state of being, not an action.

To master 根源的な, you must understand its neighbors in the Japanese vocabulary. Depending on the context, you might need a word that is slightly more practical or slightly more abstract. Here are the primary alternatives:

基本的な (Kihonteki na): 'Basic' or 'Standard.' Use this for rules, steps, or general knowledge. It is the most common and versatile choice for everyday 'fundamental' things.
本質的な (Honshitsuteki na): 'Essential' or 'Intrinsic.' Focuses on the 'nature' of something rather than its 'origin.' Use this when discussing the core characteristics of a person or a project.
基礎的な (Kisoteki na): 'Foundational.' Often used in education or physical construction. 'Kisoteki na chishiki' is foundational knowledge required to learn something harder.
抜本的な (Bapponteki na): 'Drastic' or 'Radical' (specifically for measures/reforms). This is a very common business/political term for 'pulling out the roots' to fix a problem.

Choosing between these depends on your focus. If you are talking about the *beginning* or *source*, choose 根源的な. If you are talking about the *foundation* to build upon, choose 基礎的な. If you are talking about the *intrinsic nature*, choose 本質的な. If you are talking about *fixing* something once and for all, choose 抜本的な. Understanding these nuances will make your Japanese sound incredibly precise and natural.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The character '源' (source) originally depicted water flowing out of a cliff. It was used to describe the literal start of the Yangtze or Yellow River before it became an abstract term for 'origin'.

発音ガイド

UK koŋɡenteki na

US koŋɡenteki na

Pitch accent is usually on the second mora 'n', with a drop-off.

韻が合う語

Hontenteki (Main branch-like) Sengenteki (Declarative) Ningen (Human) Gengen (Source of words) Kengen (Authority) Hongen (Original source) Shingen (Epicenter) Zengen (Previous words)

よくある間違い

Pronouncing 'n' as a full English 'N' with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth.
Forgetting to include the 'na' when modifying a noun.
Stress on the 'teki' instead of the beginning of the word.
Misreading the kanji '源' (gen) as 'mizu' or 'hara'.
Confusing 'kongen' with 'kengen' (authority).

難易度

読解 4/5

The kanji are N1/N2 level. Requires knowledge of Sino-Japanese compounds.

ライティング 4/5

Writing '源' correctly can be tricky for intermediate learners.

スピーキング 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but finding the right context to use it is hard.

リスニング 3/5

Distinctive sound, but often spoken quickly in news contexts.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

根本原因基本基礎源

次に学ぶ

本質的抜本的普遍的絶対的相対的

上級

形而上学存在論帰納的演繹的

知っておくべき文法

Na-Adjective Modification

根源的な + [Noun]

Adverbial Use with ~ni

根源的に + [Verb/Adjective]

Causal Base (ni motozuku)

根源的な原理に基づいている。

Noun + to iu + Noun

存在という根源的な問い。

Compound Noun Formation

根源的解決 (no 'na' needed in compounds).

無料登録して完全な解説を読む

レベル別の例文

これは根源的な問題です。

This is a fundamental problem.

Simple [Noun] wa [Adjective] desu structure.

根源的な意味を知りたいです。

I want to know the fundamental meaning.

Using 'na' to connect to 'imi' (meaning).

水は生命の根源的なものです。

Water is a fundamental thing for life.

Describing a basic necessity of life.

根源的な力が必要です。

Fundamental power is necessary.

Describing a source of energy.

根源的なルールを守りましょう。

Let's follow the fundamental rules.

Using the 'mashou' (let's) form.

彼の根源的な考えは良いです。

His fundamental idea is good.

Possessive 'no' with a person.

根源的な変化があります。

There is a fundamental change.

Using 'arimasu' for existence.

根源的な質問をします。

I will ask a fundamental question.

Future/present tense 'shimasu'.

それは根源的な欲求に基づいています。

That is based on a fundamental desire.

Using 'ni motozuite' (based on).

根源的な違いを理解しましょう。

Let's understand the fundamental differences.

Focusing on contrast.

この本の根源的なテーマは何ですか？

What is the fundamental theme of this book?

Asking a question about content.

根源的な解決策を見つけなければなりません。

We must find a fundamental solution.

Using 'nakereba narimasen' (must).

根源的な恐怖を感じました。

I felt a fundamental fear.

Past tense of 'kanjiru'.

根源的な美しさがこの絵にはあります。

There is a fundamental beauty in this painting.

Using 'ni wa' for location/subject.

根源的な自由を求めています。

They are seeking fundamental freedom.

Continuous form 'moteomete imasu'.

根源的なレベルで話し合いましょう。

Let's talk at a fundamental level.

Using 'de' to indicate level/place.

貧困は根源的な社会問題の一つです。

Poverty is one of the fundamental social problems.

Identifying a root cause in society.

教育は根源的な権利であるべきだ。

Education should be a fundamental right.

Using 'beki da' (should be).

その事件は、私たちの根源的な信頼を裏切った。

That incident betrayed our fundamental trust.

Using 'uragitta' (betrayed).

根源的な問いに対する答えは見つかっていない。

The answer to the fundamental question has not been found.

Using 'ni taisuru' (towards/regarding).

このアプリは、コミュニケーションの根源的な形を変えた。

This app changed the fundamental form of communication.

Transitive verb 'kaeta' (changed).

根源的な欲求を抑えるのは難しい。

It is difficult to suppress fundamental desires.

Using 'no wa muzukashii' (it is difficult to...).

彼は根源的な真理を求めて旅に出た。

He went on a journey seeking fundamental truth.

The purpose of a journey.

根源的な矛盾がその計画には含まれている。

A fundamental contradiction is included in that plan.

Passive form 'fukumarete iru'.

民主主義は、根源的な平等の概念に基づいている。

Democracy is based on the concept of fundamental equality.

Abstract political concept.

気候変動への対策には、根源的な変革が必要だ。

Countermeasures for climate change require radical transformation.

Using 'henkaku' (transformation/reform).

根源的な不安が、彼の行動の動機となっている。

Fundamental anxiety is the motivation for his actions.

Using 'douki to natte iru' (is the motivation).

科学の進歩は、宇宙の根源的な法則を解明してきた。

Scientific progress has elucidated the fundamental laws of the universe.

Present perfect 'shite kita'.

その法律は、個人の根源的な自由を侵害している。

That law violates the fundamental freedom of the individual.

Using 'shingai shite iru' (is violating).

根源的な喜びを分かち合うことが人生の目的だ。

Sharing fundamental joy is the purpose of life.

Philosophical statement.

私たちは根源的なレベルで繋がっている。

We are connected at a fundamental level.

Describing human connection.

その批判は、私の根源的な信念を揺るがした。

That criticism shook my fundamental beliefs.

Using 'yurugashita' (shook/destabilized).

デカルトは、根源的な懐疑を通じて真理に到達しようとした。

Descartes tried to reach the truth through fundamental skepticism.

Historical/Philosophical context.

この作品は、人間の存在という根源的なテーマを扱っている。

This work deals with the fundamental theme of human existence.

Literary analysis.

根源的な悪についての考察を深める。

Deepen the consideration of fundamental evil.

Academic 'kousatsu' (consideration/study).

資本主義の根源的な欠陥が、今回の危機で露呈した。

The fundamental flaws of capitalism were exposed in this crisis.

Economic/Critical register.

言語は、思考と根源的な関わりを持っている。

Language has a fundamental relationship with thought.

Linguistic theory.

根源的な孤独は、他者との交流では癒やせない。

Fundamental loneliness cannot be healed through interaction with others.

Existentialist nuance.

その発見は、生物学の根源的な前提を覆した。

That discovery overturned the fundamental premises of biology.

Paradigm shift.

根源的な生命力を感じる力強い表現だ。

It is a powerful expression that makes one feel fundamental life force.

Artistic critique.

存在論的な問いは、常に根源的な次元で語られるべきである。

Ontological questions should always be discussed at a fundamental dimension.

Highly academic/formal.

法治国家の根源的な正当性が問われている。

The fundamental legitimacy of the constitutional state is being questioned.

Legal/Political theory.

その詩は、言葉の根源的な響きを追求している。

That poem pursues the fundamental resonance of words.

Aesthetic/Poetic register.

根源的な他者性を受け入れることが、真の共生の始まりだ。

Accepting fundamental 'otherness' is the beginning of true coexistence.

Sociological/Ethical theory.

意識の根源的な構造を解明する試みが続いている。

Attempts to elucidate the fundamental structure of consciousness continue.

Neuroscience/Philosophy of mind.

この政策は、格差の根源的な是正を目指している。

This policy aims for the fundamental rectification of inequality.

Using 'zeisei' (rectification/correction).

根源的な衝動に突き動かされて、彼は筆を執った。

Driven by a fundamental impulse, he took up his pen.

Using 'tsukiugokasarete' (driven by).

その理論は、事象の根源的な連関を見事に描き出した。

The theory brilliantly depicted the fundamental interconnectedness of phenomena.

Theoretical praise.

よく使う組み合わせ

根源的な問い

根源的な欲求

根源的な原因

根源的な解決

根源的な力

根源的な恐怖

根源的な不平等

根源的な変化

根源的なレベル

根源的な真理

よく使うフレーズ

根源的な意味で

— In the most fundamental sense.

根源的な意味で、私たちは皆平等だ。

根源的なレベルにおいて

— At a fundamental level.

根源的なレベルにおいて、議論が必要だ。

根源的なところに立ち返る

— To return to the fundamental/root point.

一度、根源的なところに立ち返って考えよう。

根源的な問題を抱える

— To have a fundamental problem.

このシステムは根源的な問題を抱えている。

根源的な欲求に従う

— To follow one's fundamental desires.

人間は根源的な欲求に従って行動する。

根源的な視点から

— From a fundamental perspective.

根源的な視点からこの事象を分析する。

根源的な違いがある

— There is a fundamental difference.

二人の間には根源的な違いがある。

根源的な美を追求する

— To pursue fundamental beauty.

彼は芸術において根源的な美を追求した。

根源的な孤独を感じる

— To feel a fundamental loneliness.

都会の中で根源的な孤独を感じる。

根源的な変革を求める

— To seek radical/fundamental transformation.

国民は政治の根源的な変革を求めている。

よく混同される語

根源的な vs 基本的な

Kihon is 'basic/standard'. Kongenteki is 'root/source'. Use kihon for how-to steps.

根源的な vs 本質的な

Honshitsu is 'essential/nature'. Kongenteki is 'origin/foundation'. Use honshitsu for 'the point of the matter'.

根源的な vs 基礎的な

Kiso is 'foundational'. Kongenteki is 'radical/root'. Use kiso for things you build upon (like kiso-math).

慣用句と表現

"根源を断つ"

— To cut off the source. To solve a problem completely by removing its root.

悪の根源を断つ必要がある。

Idiomatic/Strong

"根掘り葉掘り"

— Inquisitively; digging up everything (roots and leaves). Related to the 'root' concept.

根掘り葉掘り聞かれる。

Informal

"根も葉もない"

— Groundless; without root or leaf. Used for rumors with no basis in truth.

それは根も葉もない噂だ。

Common

"根を下ろす"

— To take root. For a habit or culture to become fundamental to a place.

新しい文化がこの地に根を下ろした。

Neutral

"根に持つ"

— To bear a grudge (to hold it in one's roots).

昔のことをいつまでも根に持つ。

Informal

"源をたどる"

— To trace back to the source/origin.

言葉の源をたどる。

Academic

"一源に発する"

— To originate from a single source.

これらすべての問題は一源に発している。

Formal

"根深い問題"

— A deep-rooted problem. Similar to 'kongenteki' but emphasizes the difficulty of removal.

それは根深い問題だ。

Neutral

"根底から覆す"

— To overturn from the very foundation.

常識を根底から覆す発見だ。

Formal

"根っからの"

— By nature; from the roots. Used for personality traits.

彼は根っからの善人だ。

Informal

間違えやすい

根源的な vs 根本的な

Very similar meaning.

Konpon-teki often implies 'thorough' or 'all-encompassing' foundation, while kongenteki emphasizes the 'origin' or 'source'. They are 90% interchangeable.

根本的な解決 vs 根源的な原因

根源的な vs 抜本的な

Both mean 'radical'.

Bappon-teki is almost exclusively used for measures, reforms, or fixing things. Kongenteki is used for nature, feelings, and laws.

抜本的な改革

根源的な vs 原始的な

Both relate to 'original'.

Genshi-teki means 'primitive' or 'ancient' (chronological). Kongenteki means 'fundamental' (ontological/structural).

原始的な道具

根源的な vs 本源的な

Extremely similar kanji.

Hongen-teki is a rare, technical academic term used in specific fields like economics (original accumulation). Kongenteki is much more common.

本源的な価値

根源的な vs 初歩的な

Both can mean 'basic'.

Shoho-teki means 'elementary' or 'beginner'. Kongenteki means 'fundamental to the universe'.

初歩的なミス

文型パターン

それは[Noun]の根源的な原因だ。

それは格差の根源的な原因だ。

根源的な[Noun]を理解する必要がある。

根源的なルールを理解する必要がある。

[Noun]は、根源的なレベルで[Verb]。

彼らは、根源的なレベルで対立している。

根源的な[Noun]に立ち返って考える。

根源的な目的に立ち返って考える。

根源的な[Noun]が露呈した。

システムの根源的な欠陥が露呈した。

根源的な[Noun]を追求する。

根源的な真理を追求する。

[Noun]という根源的な事態。

死という根源的な事態。

根源的な[Noun]に突き動かされる。

根源的な衝動に突き動かされる。

語族

名詞

根源 Root, source, origin.

根本 Foundation, basis.

動詞

根ざす To be rooted in; to originate from.

形容詞

根源的 Fundamental (the word itself).

根本的 Basic, fundamental.

使い方

frequency

Common in written Japanese (news, books), rare in spoken Japanese (except lectures/debates).

よくある間違い

Using it for 'basic' skills. → 基本的なスキル
Kongenteki is too heavy for simple skills like typing or cooking.
Using it as a verb (根源する). → 根源にある / 根ざしている
Kongenteki is an adjective. Use 'ni aru' to say something 'is at the root'.
Confusing with 'Authority' (権限). → 根源 (Kongen)
Kengen (authority) sounds similar but means something completely different.
Forgetting 'na' in '根源的な問題'. → 根源的な問題
It is a na-adjective, so the 'na' is mandatory when modifying nouns.
Using it to mean 'ancient' only. → 原始的な
Kongenteki is about essence, not just time. Use genshiteki for 'caveman' level things.

ヒント

Academic Tone

Use this word in essays to show that you are analyzing the deepest level of a topic. It impresses examiners.

Don't forget 'NA'

As a na-adjective, it always needs 'na' before a noun. Example: 根源的な理由.

Root Metaphor

Remember the kanji for 'root' (根). If you can't see it (like roots underground), it's probably 'kongenteki'.

NHK News

Watch NHK documentaries on space or history; you will hear this word used for 'mysteries' and 'laws'.

Avoid Casual Use

Don't use it with friends at a cafe unless you are having a very deep, late-night philosophical talk.

Pair with 'Mondai'

A very common pairing is '根源的な問題'. It's a safe and effective way to use the word.

Zen Context

In Zen, the 'kongen' is the true self. Understanding this helps with reading spiritual texts.

Kanji Recognition

Notice '源' in other words like 'gengen' (source) or 'shingen' (epicenter) to build a word family.

Compare with Kihon

Always ask yourself: Is this 'simple' (kihon) or is it the 'root source' (kongen)?

Use in Debates

Use this word to pivot a debate back to the most important, structural issue.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of a **KON** (corn) stalk. Its **GEN** (genetics) are in the **ROOT** (根) and the **SOURCE** (源) of the water it drinks. It's 'kongenteki'—the fundamental nature of the corn!

視覚的連想

Imagine a giant tree where the underground roots are glowing with golden light. That glowing part is the 'kongen'—the fundamental source of the tree's life.

Word Web

根 (Root) 源 (Source) 的 (Target/Suffix) 根本 (Foundation) 起源 (Origin) 源泉 (Source/Spring) 根拠 (Basis) 本質 (Essence)

チャレンジ

Try to identify one '根源的な欲求' (fundamental desire) you have today. Is it hunger? The need for sleep? The need for connection? Write it down using the word.

語源

Composed of Middle Chinese-derived characters. '根' (root) refers to the part of the plant that is underground, and '源' (source) refers to the headwaters of a spring or river. Combined, they create a powerful metaphor for the absolute beginning of any phenomenon.

元の意味： The physical root and the water source.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

文化的な背景

This word is safe and formal. It is never offensive, but using it in casual conversation might make you seem 'stiff' or 'preachy'.

English speakers often use 'basic' for everything. In Japanese, using 'kongenteki' makes you sound like a philosopher or a high-level expert.

Used in Japanese translations of Heidegger and Kant to describe 'primordial' states. Commonly found in the lyrics of high-concept J-Rock bands like RADWIMPS or King Gnu when discussing deep emotions. A key term in Japanese environmental activism regarding 'radical' ecology.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Academic Writing

根源的な考察
根源的な矛盾
根源的な前提
根源的な視点

Science/Technology

根源的な力
根源的な法則
根源的な構造
根源的なエネルギー

Self-Reflection/Philosophy

根源的な問い
根源的な孤独
根源的な喜び
根源的な不安

Political Reform

根源的な変革
根源的な是正
根源的な不平等
根源的な権利

Psychology

根源的な欲求
根源的な衝動
根源的な恐怖
根源的な愛

会話のきっかけ

"人間にとって最も根源的な欲求は何だと思いますか？ (What do you think is the most fundamental human desire?)"

"社会の根源的な問題を解決するには、何が必要でしょうか？ (What is needed to solve the fundamental problems of society?)"

"あなたの人生において、根源的な価値観は何ですか？ (What is the fundamental value in your life?)"

"科学は宇宙の根源的な謎を解明できると思いますか？ (Do you think science can solve the fundamental mysteries of the universe?)"

"私たちが根源的なレベルで理解し合うことは可能でしょうか？ (Is it possible for us to understand each other at a fundamental level?)"

日記のテーマ

今日、自分が感じた「根源的な喜び」について書いてください。 (Write about a 'fundamental joy' you felt today.)

現代社会が抱える「根源的な矛盾」について、あなたの考えを述べてください。 (State your thoughts on the 'fundamental contradictions' of modern society.)

自分自身の性格の「根源的な部分」はどこにあると思いますか？ (Where do you think the 'fundamental part' of your own personality lies?)

「根源的な自由」とはどのような状態を指すと考えますか？ (What state do you think 'fundamental freedom' refers to?)

あなたが解決したいと思っている「根源的な課題」は何ですか？ (What is the 'fundamental challenge' you want to solve?)

よくある質問

10 問

No. You should use 'kihon-teki na nihongo' or 'shoppo-teki na nihongo'. 'Kongenteki na nihongo' would sound like you are discussing the prehistoric origins of the Japanese language.

It is neutral. It can be used for positive things like 'fundamental joy' (根源的な喜び) or negative things like 'fundamental flaw' (根源的な欠陥).

Geniin (原因) is just a 'cause'. Kongen (根源) is the 'ultimate source'. A fire might have a cause (a match), but its 'kongen' might be the fundamental chemical properties of oxygen and fuel.

Yes, but only for their fundamental nature or desires. You wouldn't say 'a fundamental person'. You would say 'He has a fundamental kindness' (彼には根源的な優しさがある).

It is the water radical (氵) on the left and 'hara' (原 - field/source) on the right. Think of water coming from a field.

Yes, very often. It is the standard translation for 'fundamental' in 'fundamental forces' (根源的な力) or 'fundamental particles'.

Yes, 'kongenteki' has a slightly more philosophical and academic nuance, whereas 'konponteki' is widely used in business and politics.

The noun form is '根源' (kongen). You can say 'the kongen of the problem' (問題の根源).

No. It only means 'radical' in the sense of 'going to the root'. For 'cool', use 'sugoi' or 'iketeru'.

Yes, it typically appears in the N1 or N2 reading sections.

無料登録してヒントとメモを見る