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A1 noun #3,048 よく出る 11分で読める

探求

tankyū 上位3,048

練習する例文メモとヒント探求 30秒で

解説探求 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 探求 (Tankyū) as a 'big search.' While you use 'sagasu' to find your bag or your friend, you use 'tankyū' when you are thinking about big ideas like 'What is happy?' or 'What is true?' Even as a beginner, you can use this word to show you are interested in deep topics. Think of it like a journey in a storybook where the hero is looking for something special and invisible. It's a noun, so you can say 'Tan-kyu' to mean 'The Quest.' If you want to say 'I am searching,' you say 'Tankyū shimasu.' It is a very polite and serious word, so using it makes you sound like a very smart student! Just remember: don't use it for your lost socks!

For A2 learners, 探求 (Tankyū) is a useful word for talking about your hobbies and goals in a more advanced way. Instead of just saying 'I like science,' you can say 'I am interested in the 探求 (quest) for scientific knowledge.' This shows you are moving beyond basic survival Japanese and into expressing complex interests. You will often see this word combined with 'no' (の), like 'Knowledge no Tankyū' (Quest for knowledge). It's also great for describing people. If you have a friend who asks 'Why?' all the time, you can say they have a 'Tankyū-shin' (a heart that wants to search). This is a very nice compliment in Japan because it means they are curious and bright.

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At the B1 level, you should start using 探求 (Tankyū) to discuss abstract themes in literature, society, or personal growth. You might encounter it in news articles about space exploration or in essays about 'the quest for peace.' It's important to distinguish it from 'tsuikyū' (pursuit). While 'tsuikyū' is often about chasing a result (like profit or a dream), 'tankyū' is about the process of investigation and understanding the essence of something. You can use the verb form 'tankyū suru' to describe your academic interests. For example, 'I want to tankyū the history of Japan' implies a deeper, more scholarly approach than just 'studying' it. It suggests you want to find the 'truth' of history.

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B2 learners should be aware of the nuance of 探求 (Tankyū) in formal and professional contexts. It is frequently used in mission statements, academic introductions, and philosophical debates. You should be able to use it in complex sentences, such as 'The quest for a sustainable society is our generation's greatest challenge.' You should also recognize the difference between 探求 (seeking abstract ideals) and 探究 (scientific/academic research), although they are often used interchangeably in speech. At this level, you should be comfortable using collocations like 'tankyū wo fukameru' (to deepen the inquiry) and 'tankyū no michi' (the path of quest). It is a key word for expressing intellectual ambition and vision.

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At the C1 level, 探求 (Tankyū) becomes a tool for nuanced expression in high-level discourse. You should understand its historical and philosophical weight, often appearing in the works of Japanese thinkers and novelists who grapple with the 'tankyū of the self' (自己の探求). You can use it to critique or analyze complex systems, such as 'the endless quest for technological advancement without ethical consideration.' You should also be adept at using the word family, including 'tankyū-teki' (investigative/inquisitive) as an adjective. In a C1 context, 'tankyū' implies an epistemological journey—not just finding information, but questioning the nature of knowledge itself. It is the language of the intellectual elite and serious scholarship.

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For C2 mastery, 探求 (Tankyū) is understood within the broader tapestry of Japanese lexical choices for 'pursuit.' You can distinguish the subtle shifts in meaning between 探求, 探究, 追求, 追及, and 追究 with precision. In C2 writing, you might use 'tankyū' to evoke a sense of 'eternal search' (永遠の探求) or to discuss the 'ontological quest' (存在論的な探求) in philosophical texts. You recognize the word's resonance in classical-modern literature (like Soseki or Akutagawa) where the search for truth often leads to existential crises. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a conceptual framework for discussing the human condition and the drive for transcendence through knowledge and understanding.

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練習する例文メモとヒント

探求 30秒で

Tankyū means a deep quest for abstract things like truth or knowledge.
It is a formal word often used in academic and philosophical contexts.
Commonly paired with 'no' (e.g., shinri no tankyū - quest for truth).
Different from 'sagasu' (physical search) or 'tsuikyū' (pursuit of profit).

The word 探求 (Tankyū) is a sophisticated Japanese noun that transcends the simple act of 'looking for' something. While a basic search for lost keys uses the word 探す (sagasu), tankyū is reserved for the profound, intellectual, or spiritual quest for abstract concepts. It is the word used when a scientist spends decades searching for the origin of the universe, or when a philosopher spends a lifetime trying to define the nature of happiness. It implies a systematic, rigorous, and often arduous journey toward a deeper understanding of the world or oneself.

Core Nuance: Unlike 'searching' for a physical object, tankyū involves the 'pursuit' of truth, knowledge, or meaning. It suggests that the object of the search is not easily found and requires significant mental or physical effort.

彼は生涯をかけて真理の探求に捧げた。(He dedicated his life to the quest for truth.)

In contemporary Japanese, you will encounter this word in academic journals, documentaries, and literature. It carries a sense of nobility and seriousness. If someone says they have a 'tankyū-shin' (探求心), they are describing a person with an insatiable curiosity and a drive to get to the bottom of things. It is a highly positive trait in educational and professional environments, signifying that the individual doesn't just accept things at face value but seeks the underlying 'why' and 'how'.

Usage Context: Often paired with abstract nouns like 真理 (shinri - truth), 知識 (chishiki - knowledge), or 幸福 (kōfuku - happiness). It is rarely used for mundane tasks like searching for a store or a person.

新しい表現の探求は、芸術家にとって終わりのない旅だ。(The search for new expressions is an endless journey for an artist.)

Furthermore, the word is constructed from two kanji: 探 (to grope/search) and 求 (to seek/request). Together, they paint a picture of someone reaching out into the unknown, actively asking for answers from the universe. This etymological background reinforces the idea that the searcher is active, not passive. You don't just 'find' a tankyū; you 'perform' it. It is an action of the will.

Professional Application: In business, it might be used when discussing 'market exploration' or 'researching new possibilities,' though 'research' (kenkyū) is more common for technical tasks. 'Tankyū' adds a layer of visionary pursuit.

宇宙の謎を探求するために、新しい望遠鏡が開発された。(To investigate the mysteries of the universe, a new telescope was developed.)

自己の可能性の探求を止めてはいけない。(You must not stop the exploration of your own potential.)

In summary, use 探求 when the search is deep, the object is abstract, and the effort is significant. It is the hallmark of the scholar, the artist, and the seeker of truth.

Grammatically, 探求 (Tankyū) functions primarily as a suru-verb (探求する) or as a compound noun. Understanding how to link it with other words is key to sounding natural. The most common structure is [Noun] + の + 探求, where the noun represents the abstract goal. For example, 'the quest for beauty' becomes 美の探求 (Bi no tankyū). This structure allows you to place the 'quest' as a subject or object in a sentence easily.

The 'Suru' Verb Form: When used as a verb (探求する), it takes a direct object marked by を (wo). For example: 'We are investigating the cause of the phenomenon' (私たちはその現象の真実を探求している).

未知の世界を探求することは、人間に備わった本能だ。(Exploring the unknown world is an instinct inherent in humans.)

Another frequent usage is the compound noun 探求心 (Tankyū-shin), which means 'a spirit of inquiry' or 'an inquisitive mind'. This is often used with the verbs ある (to have) or 旺盛だ (ōsei-da - to be full of). Saying someone has an 'insatiable spirit of inquiry' is 探求心が旺盛だ. This is a common way to praise students or researchers in Japanese culture.

Common Verb Pairings: 探求を続ける (To continue the quest), 探求を深める (To deepen the inquiry), 探求を止める (To stop the quest), 探求に努める (To strive for inquiry).

彼は数学の美しさを探求し続けている。(He continues to explore the beauty of mathematics.)

When describing the depth of the search, we use the verb 深める (fukameru - to deepen). 'Deepening the inquiry' (探求を深める) suggests that the person is moving beyond surface-level facts and into the core essence of the subject. This is a very common phrase in academic settings, such as at the end of a thesis or during a seminar.

The Passive Form: While less common, 探求される (to be investigated/sought) is used when the focus is on the object of the search. 'The truth is being sought' (真理が探求されている).

哲学は人生の意味を探求する学問である。(Philosophy is the study that investigates the meaning of life.)

我々は平和への道を探求しなければならない。(We must seek the path to peace.)

Finally, notice the particles. Using 探求に (ni) often indicates the goal or the activity one is dedicated to, while 探求を (wo) indicates the direct action of searching. Mastering these small differences will make your Japanese sound sophisticated and precise.

You are most likely to hear 探求 (Tankyū) in environments where high-level thinking is occurring. It is a staple of NHK documentaries, particularly those focusing on space, deep-sea exploration, or historical mysteries. When the narrator says, 'And so, the quest for the lost city continues,' they will almost certainly use the word tankyū. It sets a tone of wonder and intellectual rigor that simpler words cannot achieve.

In Education: Modern Japanese education emphasizes 'Inquiry-based learning' (探究型学習). While the kanji is slightly different (探究), the pronunciation is the same, and the concept of 'searching for answers' is central to the student experience.

科学者の情熱が、新薬の探求を支えている。(The passion of scientists supports the quest for new medicines.)

In the world of literature and philosophy, tankyū is used to describe the internal journey. A character in a novel might be on a 'tankyū' to find their true self or to understand a deceased parent's hidden life. It is also used in political speeches when a leader speaks about 'the quest for lasting peace' or 'the pursuit of national prosperity.' In these cases, the word lends a sense of gravity and long-term commitment to the speaker's goals.

Art and Aesthetics: Artists often use 'tankyū' to describe their creative process. It's not just 'making' art; it's 'investigating' the possibilities of color, light, or sound.

この本は、人間の心の深淵を探求している。(This book explores the depths of the human heart.)

You will also find it in the titles of books and essays. A title like 'The Quest for Happiness' would be translated as '幸福の探求' (Kōfuku no Tankyū). It signals to the reader that the content will be thoughtful and investigative rather than just a simple how-to guide. In the digital age, while 'search' (kensaku) is used for Google, 'tankyū' is used for the intellectual journey that happens after you find the information.

Religious and Spiritual Contexts: In discussions about Buddhism or other spiritual paths, 'tankyū' is used for the search for enlightenment (satori) or the ultimate reality of the universe.

真実の愛の探求は、多くの詩のテーマである。(The quest for true love is a theme of many poems.)

考古学者は失われた文明の探求に情熱を燃やしている。(Archaeologists are passionate about the quest for lost civilizations.)

Essentially, tankyū is the 'adult' and 'intellectual' version of searching. It implies that the answer isn't just sitting there—it has to be earned through study, reflection, and persistence.

The most frequent mistake learners make with 探求 (Tankyū) is using it for mundane, physical searches. If you tell a Japanese person 'I am tankyū-ing my smartphone,' they will likely be confused or think you are making a joke about the philosophical nature of mobile devices. For physical objects, always use 探す (sagasu). Tankyū is strictly for the abstract or the deeply hidden.

Mistake 1: Physical Objects: Incorrect: 消しゴムの探求をしています (I am on a quest for my eraser). Correct: 消しゴムを探しています。

× 鍵の探求 / ○ 鍵の捜索 (Searching for keys is 'sōsaku' or 'sagasu', not 'tankyū'.)

Another common confusion is between 探求 (Tankyū) and 追求 (Tsuikyū). While they sound similar and both involve 'pursuit,' tsuikyū (追求) is often used for pursuing profit (利益の追求) or pursuing a goal/ideal with vigor. Tankyū (探求) focuses more on the *investigative* side—finding out the nature of something. If you are pursuing a criminal or a responsibility, you use yet another homophone, 追及 (also pronounced Tsuikyū but written with different kanji).

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Tsuikyū': Tankyū (探求) = Investigating/Searching for knowledge. Tsuikyū (追求) = Chasing/Pursuing a goal or profit. Tsuikyū (追及) = Pressing for responsibility or chasing a suspect.

× 犯人の探求 / ○ 犯人の追跡 (You 'chase' (tsuiseki) a criminal, you don't 'investigate the essence' of them with tankyū.)

Confusing 探求 (Tankyū) with 探究 (Tankyū) is also common. In many contexts, they are interchangeable, but 探究 (with the 'research' kanji 究) is more technical and scientific. It implies academic research to clarify a truth. 探求 (with the 'seek' kanji 求) is broader and can include spiritual or emotional quests. However, even native speakers often use them interchangeably, so this is a 'soft' mistake unless you are writing a formal academic paper.

Mistake 3: Overusing 'Suru': While 探求する is correct, using it too often in a short paragraph can sound repetitive. Try to vary your sentences using nouns like 探求心 (spirit of inquiry).

× 彼は毎日、何かを探求している。(Too vague. Specify what he is seeking, like 知識を探求している.)

× グーグルで探求する / ○ グーグルで検索する (Search engines are for information, not philosophical inquiry.)

Lastly, remember that tankyū is a noun. When using it as a verb, you must add suru. Using just tankyū as a verb is a grammatical error.

Japanese has many words for 'searching' and 'pursuing.' Choosing the right one depends on the object and the intensity of the search. 探求 (Tankyū) sits in the realm of deep, abstract inquiry. Let's compare it with its closest relatives to help you choose the perfect word for your context.

探求 vs. 追求 (Tsuikyū): 探求 (Tankyū) is about 'investigating to understand' (e.g., the meaning of life). 追求 (Tsuikyū) is about 'chasing to obtain' (e.g., profit, ideals, or a target). Use tankyū when you want to know; use tsuikyū when you want to get.

真理の探求 vs. 利益の追求 (Quest for truth vs. Pursuit of profit.)

Next, consider 探究 (Tankyū). This is the most confusing one because it sounds identical. The difference lies in the second kanji. 探求 (seek) is for searching for something abstract. 探究 (investigate/research) is for academic or scientific research to clarify a mystery. In modern education, 探究 is the standard term for research projects.

探求 vs. 探索 (Tansaku): 探索 (Tansaku) is often used for 'exploration' or 'scouting.' It is common in computer science (searching for data) or exploring a physical space like a forest or a dungeon in a game. It is more 'spatial' than 'intellectual' tankyū.

洞窟の探索 (Exploration of a cave) vs. 幸福の探求 (Quest for happiness).

Then there is 研究 (Kenkyū). This is the standard word for 'research.' It is what you do at a university or laboratory. While tankyū describes the *spirit* or the *journey* of the search, kenkyū describes the *method* and the *work* itself. You might say, 'My research (kenkyū) is part of my quest (tankyū) for truth.'

探求 vs. 調査 (Chōsa): 調査 (Chōsa) means 'investigation' or 'survey.' It is used for finding facts, statistics, or evidence (e.g., a crime scene investigation or a market survey). It lacks the philosophical weight of tankyū.

市場の調査 (Market survey) vs. 人生の探求 (Quest for life's meaning).

Finally, the simple 探す (Sagasu) is your everyday word for 'to search/look for.' It covers everything from looking for a job to looking for your cat. Use it whenever tankyū feels too heavy or dramatic.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The kanji 探 originally depicted a hand (扌) searching in a hole or dark place. This is why it implies searching for something not easily seen.

発音ガイド

UK tæŋ.kjuː

US tɑːŋ.kjuː

In Japanese, pitch accent is typically [Heiban] (Flat), meaning it stays relatively level without a drop.

韻が合う語

Kankyū (緩急 - Tempo) Sankyū (サンキュー - Thank you) Renkyū (連休 - Consecutive holidays) Benkyō (勉強 - Study - near rhyme) Genkyū (言及 - Mention) Senkyū (選球 - Eye for the ball) Tenkyū (天球 - Celestial sphere) Kenkyū (研究 - Research)

よくある間違い

Pronouncing 'u' too strongly (it's a short, clipped sound).
Adding an English 'r' sound to 'tan'.
Confusing the pitch with 'Tankyū' (short search).
Misplacing the stress on the first syllable like English words.
Failing to hold the long 'ū' sound at the end if you want to sound emphatic.

難易度

読解 4/5

The kanji are N2 level, but the concept is easy once explained.

ライティング 5/5

Writing the kanji correctly requires practice, especially 'Tan'.

スピーキング 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but hard to use at the right level of formality.

リスニング 4/5

Must distinguish from homophones like 'Tsuikyū' in fast speech.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

探す (Sagasu) 求める (Motomeru) 知識 (Chishiki) 真理 (Shinri) 研究 (Kenkyū)

次に学ぶ

追求 (Tsuikyū) 追及 (Tsuikyū) 究明 (Kyūmei) 探索 (Tansaku) 考察 (Kōsatsu)

上級

認識論 (Epistemology) 恣意性 (Arbitrariness) 普遍的 (Universal) 形而上学 (Metaphysics) 本質主義 (Essentialism)

知っておくべき文法

Suru-verbs (Noun + する)

探求する (To seek/investigate)

Noun compounding with 心 (Shin)

探求心 (Spirit of inquiry)

Objective marker を (wo)

真理を探求する (Seek the truth)

Nominalization with の (no)

探求を続けるのは大変だ (Continuing the quest is hard)

Adverbial form of な-adjectives (的に)

探求的に取り組む (Approach inquisitively)

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レベル別の例文

私は真理の探求が好きです。

I like the quest for truth.

Subject + は + Noun + の + 探求 + が好きです。

彼は知識を探求しています。

He is seeking knowledge.

Noun + を + 探求しています (Present continuous).

探求はとても大切です。

The quest is very important.

Noun + は + Adjective + です。

新しいことを探求しましょう。

Let's explore new things.

Verb stem + しましょう (Let's...).

それは美の探求です。

That is the quest for beauty.

Noun + の + 探求 + です。

探求心を持ってください。

Please have an inquisitive mind.

Noun (探求心) + を持って (Please have).

科学は宇宙の探求です。

Science is the quest for the universe.

Noun + は + Noun + の + 探求 + です。

私たちは幸せを探求します。

We seek happiness.

Subject + は + Noun + を + 探求します。

彼女は数学の探求を続けています。

She continues her quest for mathematics.

Noun + の + 探求 + を + 続けている (to continue).

探求心がある学生は伸びます。

Students with an inquisitive mind will grow.

Noun + がある (to have) + Noun.

人生の意味を探求するのは難しい。

It is difficult to seek the meaning of life.

Verb (探求する) + の (nominalizer) + は + Adjective.

歴史の探求は面白いです。

The quest for history is interesting.

Noun + の + 探求 + は + Adjective + です。

新しい料理の味を探求したい。

I want to explore the taste of new dishes.

Verb stem + たい (want to).

自然の謎を探求しましょう。

Let's explore the mysteries of nature.

Noun + の + 謎 + を + 探求しましょう。

彼は真実の探求者です。

He is a seeker of truth.

Noun + 探求者 (Seeker).

平和の探求が私たちの目的です。

The quest for peace is our purpose.

Noun + の + 探求 + が + Noun + です。

この研究は、生命の起源を探求している。

This research is seeking the origin of life.

Using 探求している for ongoing academic pursuit.

終わりのない探求が彼を動かしている。

An endless quest is what drives him.

Noun phrase as a subject.

哲学的な探求を深めることが重要だ。

It is important to deepen philosophical inquiry.

探求を深める (to deepen the inquiry).

彼は自己のアイデンティティを探求した。

He explored his own identity.

Past tense 探求した.

未知の領域を探求する勇気を持とう。

Let's have the courage to explore unknown territories.

Noun + を + 探求する + Noun (Courage).

その作家は人間の孤独を探求し続けている。

That author continues to explore human loneliness.

Verb stem + 続ける (to continue doing).

科学的探求には客観性が必要だ。

Scientific inquiry requires objectivity.

探求 + には (for...) + Noun + が必要だ.

富の追求よりも、知の探求を優先すべきだ。

One should prioritize the quest for knowledge over the pursuit of wealth.

A + よりも (rather than) + B + を優先すべきだ.

我々は持続可能な社会の在り方を探求すべきである。

We should investigate the ideal state of a sustainable society.

Noun + の + 在り方 (the way it should be) + を探求する.

探求心こそが、文明を発展させてきた原動力だ。

It is precisely the spirit of inquiry that has been the driving force behind the development of civilization.

Noun + こそ (emphasis) + が...原動力だ.

芸術とは、美の本質を探求する行為に他ならない。

Art is nothing other than the act of seeking the essence of beauty.

A + とは + B + に他ならない (is nothing but B).

この論文は、言語の起源を多角的に探求している。

This paper explores the origins of language from multiple perspectives.

多角的に (from many angles/perspectives).

真理の探求に終わりはないが、その過程に価値がある。

There is no end to the quest for truth, but there is value in the process.

Clause A + が (but) + Clause B.

彼は若者の可能性を最大限に引き出す道を探求した。

He sought a way to bring out the potential of young people to the maximum.

引き出す (to pull out/bring out) + 道 (way/path).

宗教的な探求心は、時として過激な行動を生む。

Religious inquisitiveness sometimes gives birth to extreme actions.

時として (sometimes).

宇宙開発は、人類の飽くなき探求心の現れだ。

Space development is a manifestation of humanity's insatiable spirit of inquiry.

飽くなき (insatiable) + 探求心.

デカルトは、確実な知識の基礎を求めて方法的探求を行った。

Descartes conducted a methodical inquiry in search of a foundation for certain knowledge.

方法的 (methodical) + 探求.

現代社会において、幸福の探求は個人の権利と見なされている。

In modern society, the pursuit of happiness is regarded as an individual right.

...と見なされている (is regarded as).

その映画は、人間の欲望が招く破滅と救済を重層的に探求している。

The film explores the destruction and salvation caused by human desire in a multi-layered way.

重層的に (in a multi-layered/complex way).

学問的探求を妨げるあらゆるバイアスを排除しなければならない。

We must eliminate all biases that hinder academic inquiry.

妨げる (to hinder) + Noun.

自己探求の果てに、彼は沈黙という答えに辿り着いた。

At the end of his self-exploration, he arrived at the answer of silence.

Noun + の果てに (at the end of...).

イノベーションは、常識を疑う探求心から生まれる。

Innovation is born from an inquisitive mind that doubts common sense.

常識を疑う (to doubt common sense).

法治国家としての正義の探求に、妥協は許されない。

In the quest for justice as a constitutional state, no compromise is allowed.

妥協は許されない (Compromise is not permitted).

量子力学の世界は、我々の直感を超えた探求を要求する。

The world of quantum mechanics demands an inquiry that transcends our intuition.

直感を超えた (transcending intuition).

存在の根源をめぐる探求は、古今東西の哲学者が挑んできた難題である。

The inquiry into the root of existence is a difficult problem that philosophers of all times and places have challenged.

...をめぐる (concerning/surrounding).

言語の恣意性を超えた普遍的な意味の探求は、言語学の究極の目標の一つだ。

The quest for universal meaning beyond the arbitrariness of language is one of the ultimate goals of linguistics.

恣意性 (arbitrariness) + を超えた.

彼は、知覚と実在の乖離を埋めるための認識論的探求に没頭した。

He immersed himself in an epistemological inquiry to bridge the gap between perception and reality.

認識論的 (epistemological) + 没頭した (immersed).

芸術的探求が極致に達したとき、作品は作者の手を離れ、独自の生命を宿す。

When artistic exploration reaches its zenith, the work leaves the author's hands and takes on a life of its own.

極致に達する (to reach the zenith/peak).

死生観の探求を通じて、彼は生の意味を再構築しようと試みた。

Through the exploration of his view on life and death, he attempted to reconstruct the meaning of living.

再構築 (reconstruction) + しようと試みた (attempted to).

真理の探求という名の下に、多くの歴史的惨劇が繰り返されてきた側面も否定できない。

It cannot be denied that many historical tragedies have been repeated under the name of the quest for truth.

...という名の下に (under the name of...).

超越的な価値の探求は、世俗的な欲望にまみれた現代社会へのアンチテーゼとなり得る。

The quest for transcendental values can become an antithesis to modern society, which is mired in worldly desires.

アンチテーゼ (antithesis) + となり得る (can become).

科学と宗教の境界線上における知の探求は、常に論争の火種となってきた。

The quest for knowledge on the boundary between science and religion has always been a spark for controversy.

境界線上 (on the boundary line).

類義語

追求探索調査研究究明

反対語

放棄忘却放置

よく使う組み合わせ

真理の探求

探求心が強い

知識の探求

美の探求

本質の探求

探求を深める

終わりのない探求

自己の探求

科学的探求

探求を続ける

よく使うフレーズ

探求心旺盛

— Being full of curiosity and a drive to investigate. Used as a compliment.

彼は探求心旺盛な研究者だ。

真実の探求

— The search for the ultimate truth. Common in legal or philosophical contexts.

裁判は真実の探求の場である。

未知への探求

— Exploring the unknown. Used for space or deep-sea travel.

人類は常に未知への探求を続けてきた。

知の探求

— The pursuit of intellectual knowledge. Often used in university mottos.

大学は知の探求の拠点だ。

幸福の探求

— The quest for happiness. A common theme in self-help and psychology.

幸福の探求は人間共通の願いだ。

可能性の探求

— Exploring possibilities or potential. Used in business and personal development.

新しいビジネスの可能性を探求する。

歴史の探求

— Investigating history to find hidden facts or lessons.

古文書を通じて歴史の探求を行う。

生命の探求

— The study or quest to understand life itself.

バイオテクノロジーは生命の探求だ。

表現の探求

— An artist's search for new ways to express themselves.

独自の表現の探求に苦労する。

理想の探求

— The search for an ideal state or perfect version of something.

理想の教育の在り方を探求する。

よく混同される語

探求 vs 検索 (Kensaku)

Use this for Google or internet searches. Tankyū is too deep for a search bar.

探求 vs 追求 (Tsuikyū)

Use this for chasing a target like 'profit' or 'ideals'.

探求 vs 捜索 (Sōsaku)

Use this for searching for a missing person or a crime suspect.

慣用句と表現

"真理の探求に身を捧げる"

— To dedicate one's entire body and soul to the quest for truth.

彼は真理の探求に身を捧げた聖者だ。

Literary

"探求の旅に出る"

— To set out on a journey of exploration (often metaphorical).

自分を見つけるための探求の旅に出る。

Poetic

"知的好奇心と探求心"

— Intellectual curiosity and the spirit of inquiry (often used together).

子供の知的好奇心と探求心を育てる。

Educational

"飽くなき探求心"

— An insatiable, never-ending drive to investigate.

エジソンの飽くなき探求心が電球を生んだ。

Formal

"探求の果てに"

— At the very end of a long quest.

長い探求の果てに、答えを見つけた。

Literary

"探求の道は険しい"

— The path of inquiry is steep/difficult.

科学の探求の道は険しいが、報われる。

Formal

"本質を探求する眼"

— An eye (insight) that seeks the essence of things.

彼は物事の本質を探求する眼を持っている。

Formal

"探求の火を絶やさない"

— To not let the fire of inquiry go out.

どんな時も探求の火を絶やしてはいけない。

Metaphorical

"一筋の探求"

— A single-minded, dedicated quest.

芸一筋の探求を続ける職人。

Respectful

"探求の深淵"

— The abyss (extreme depth) of inquiry.

彼は哲学的な探求の深淵に迷い込んだ。

Literary

間違えやすい

探求 vs 探究

Sounds identical and has a similar meaning.

探究 focuses on scientific/academic research to clarify a specific mystery. 探求 is broader and can include spiritual or emotional quests.

宇宙の謎を探究する vs. 人生の幸せを探求する

探求 vs 追及

Sounds like 'Tsuikyū' which is often mixed with 'Tankyū'.

追及 means to press for responsibility or interrogate. It is aggressive and legal/social.

責任の追及 (Pressing for responsibility)

探求 vs 追究

Sounds like 'Tsuikyū' and 'Tankyū'.

追究 means to investigate a matter thoroughly to find the truth, similar to 'Tankyū' but more focused on the outcome of the investigation.

真理を追究する

探求 vs 探索

Both mean 'search/explore'.

探索 is more physical or data-oriented (exploring a cave, searching a database). Tankyū is intellectual/abstract.

情報の探索 vs. 知の探求

探求 vs 研究

Both relate to seeking knowledge.

研究 is the formal method of study. Tankyū is the spirit or the long-term quest.

医学の研究 vs. 生命の探求

文型パターン

私は[Noun]の探求が好きです。

私は真理の探求が好きです。

[Noun]の探求を続けます。

知識の探求を続けます。

[Noun]を探求することは、[Adjective]です。

宇宙を探求することは、素晴らしいです。

[Noun]を探求する道は、[Adjective]だ。

真理を探求する道は、険しいだ。

[Noun]という名の下に、[Noun]の探求が行われた。

科学という名の下に、真理の探求が行われた。

[Noun]をめぐる探求は、[Noun]の極致である。

存在をめぐる探求は、哲学の極致である。

[Noun]への探求心を忘れてはならない。

未知への探求心を忘れてはならない。

[Noun]の探求を深めることで、[Noun]が見えてくる。

本質の探求を深めることで、真実が見えてくる。

語族

名詞

探求者 (Tankyū-sha) - Seeker/Inquirer

探求心 (Tankyū-shin) - Spirit of inquiry

探求物 (Tankyū-butsu) - Object of search

動詞

探求する (Tankyū-suru) - To seek/investigate

形容詞

探求的 (Tankyū-teki) - Inquisitive/Investigative

使い方

frequency

Common in academic, philosophical, and high-level media contexts. Rare in daily casual conversation.

よくある間違い

Using 探求 for a lost wallet. → 財布を探しています。
Tankyū is for abstract concepts. For physical objects, use Sagasu.
Confusing 探求 with 検索 for Google. → グーグルで検索する。
Kensaku is the technical term for searching data or the web.
Writing 追求 when you mean investigation. → 真理の探求
Tsuikyū (追求) is for pursuing a result, while Tankyū is for seeking understanding.
Using 探求 as a verb without 'suru'. → 真理を探求する。
Tankyū is a noun; it requires 'suru' to function as a verb.
Using 探求 for a criminal chase. → 犯人の追跡
Use Tsuiseki for chasing or following someone physically.

ヒント

Abstract Only

Always remember that 'Tankyū' is for things you cannot touch, like truth, beauty, or knowledge. If you can touch it, use 'Sagasu'.

The Particle 'No'

The most common way to use this word is [Concept] + の + 探求. It's a very stable and safe pattern for learners.

Complimenting Others

If you want to sound smart and polite, tell someone they have a 'Tankyū-shin'. It's a high-level compliment for their intelligence.

Thesis Writing

If you are writing a paper in Japanese, use 'Tankyū' to describe the overarching goal of your inquiry.

Homophone Alert

Be careful with 'Tsuikyū'. If you want to talk about profit, use 'Tsuikyū'. If you want to talk about understanding, use 'Tankyū'.

The TAN Person

Remember the tanned person in the queue for truth. It helps you remember the sound 'Tan-Kyu'.

Kanji Clues

The first kanji 探 has a 'hand' radical. You are 'reaching out' to find something deep.

Documentary Keyword

When you hear 'Tankyū' on TV, it usually signals the start of a deep dive into a mystery.

Tone Matters

Speak 'Tankyū' with a serious tone. It's not a lighthearted word, so your body language should match the intellectual weight.

The Path of Mastery

In Japan, the journey is often more important than the destination. 'Tankyū' perfectly captures this cultural value.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Imagine a **TAN** (sun-tanned) person in a **KYU** (queue/line) waiting to find the meaning of life. They are on a TAN-KYU.

視覚的連想

Picture a person with a magnifying glass looking at a glowing '?' mark that represents the 'Truth'.

Word Web

Truth Knowledge Philosophy Science Quest Deep Abstract Spirit

チャレンジ

Try to use 'Tankyū' in a sentence about your favorite hobby today. For example, if you like cooking, say you are on a 'tankyū' for the perfect flavor.

語源

Composed of two Sino-Japanese (Kanji) characters. 'Tan' (探) means to grope, search, or explore. 'Kyū' (求) means to request, seek, or want. The combination appeared in classical texts to describe the pursuit of wisdom.

元の意味： To grope for and seek out something hidden or high-minded.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

文化的な背景

No specific sensitivities, but avoid using it for trivial things to prevent sounding sarcastic.

In English, we might use 'Quest' or 'Inquiry,' but 'Tankyū' has a more academic and serious weight than 'Quest' which can sound like a fantasy novel.

Soseki Natsume's works often deal with the 'self-tankyū'. NHK's 'Cosmic Front' uses tankyū for space exploration. The curriculum 'Sogo-teki na Tankyū no Jikan' in Japanese schools.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Science & Research

宇宙の起源を探求する
新薬の探求
科学的探求の精神
未知の物質を探求する

Philosophy & Religion

人生の意味を探求する
真理の探求
自己探求の道
神の存在の探求

Art & Literature

美の探求
新しい表現の探求
独自のスタイルの探求
人間の深淵を探求する

Personal Growth

可能性の探求
自己の探求
理想の生活の探求
心の平安を探求する

Education

探求心を育てる
探求型学習
主体的な探求
学びの探求

会話のきっかけ

"あなたの人生における一番の探求は何ですか？ (What is the biggest quest of your life?)"

"最近、何か新しいことを探求していますか？ (Are you exploring anything new lately?)"

"探求心を忘れないために、何をしていますか？ (What do you do to not forget your spirit of inquiry?)"

"科学の探求と芸術の探求、どちらに興味がありますか？ (Are you more interested in scientific or artistic inquiry?)"

"真理の探求は、人間に幸せをもたらすと思いますか？ (Do you think the quest for truth brings happiness to humans?)"

日記のテーマ

今日、私が探求した小さな発見について書いてください。 (Write about a small discovery you explored today.)

もし一生をかけて一つのことを探求できるなら、何を選びますか？ (If you could spend your whole life seeking one thing, what would it be?)

自分自身の内面を探求することで、何が見えてきましたか？ (What have you seen by exploring your own inner self?)

知識の探求が、あなたの生活をどのように豊かにしましたか？ (How has the quest for knowledge enriched your life?)

「終わりのない探求」について、あなたの考えを述べてください。 (State your thoughts on the 'endless quest'.)

よくある質問

10 問

No, that would sound very strange. Use 'Sagasu' for physical objects. 'Tankyū' is for abstract concepts like truth or meaning. If you used 'Tankyū' for keys, it would imply the keys have a deep philosophical meaning you are trying to understand.

They are often used interchangeably in speech. However, in writing, 探求 (seek) is for abstract goals like happiness, while 探究 (research) is for academic or scientific investigation into a specific mystery.

Yes, it is a very positive word. It means someone is curious, intellectually active, and eager to learn. It is often used to praise students or researchers.

Yes, but usually in a visionary sense, such as '探求する企業精神' (an inquisitive corporate spirit) or '市場の可能性の探求' (exploring market possibilities). For daily tasks, use 'Kenkyū' or 'Chōsa'.

You can say '探求の旅に出ています' (I am on a journey of quest) or simply '探求しています' (I am seeking/investigating).

Yes, it often appears in titles or when characters speak about their goals, such as seeking the 'ultimate power' or the 'truth of the world'.

The kanji are N2, but the word is useful for anyone from N3 and above. Beginners (A1/A2) can learn it to express deeper interests.

Not necessarily. It focuses on the *act* and the *spirit* of the search. Many 'tankyū' are lifelong and may never truly end.

Yes, by adding 'teki' to make '探求的' (tankyū-teki), which means inquisitive or investigative.

There is no single direct opposite, but words like '放置' (hōchi - leaving alone) or '無関心' (mukanshin - indifference) represent the lack of a quest.

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