At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 'tsuuka' very often. You should focus on 'okane' (money). However, you might see 'tsuuka' on signs at the airport or in a textbook when talking about Japan. It simply means the kind of money a country uses. For Japan, the 'tsuuka' is the Yen. For America, it is the Dollar. Just remember that 'tsuuka' is a more 'grown-up' or 'serious' word for money. You won't use it to ask your friend for five dollars, but you might see it in a list of facts about a country. Think of it as the name of the money system.
At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more about the world around you in Japanese. You should recognize 'tsuuka' as the word for 'currency.' You might use it in a simple sentence like 'Nihon no tsuuka wa en desu' (Japan's currency is the yen). You might also hear it when people talk about traveling to other countries and needing to change their money. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between 'genkin' (cash you can touch) and 'tsuuka' (the name of the system). If you see the word 'gaikoku tsuuka' (foreign currency) at a bank, you should know it means money from other countries.
At the B1 level, you are expected to understand and use 'tsuuka' in discussions about travel, basic economics, and news. You should know common phrases like 'tsuuka ryougae' (currency exchange) and 'kasou tsuuka' (virtual currency/cryptocurrency). You should be able to explain that 'tsuuka' is the formal term used in news reports. For example, if you are talking about why things are expensive, you might mention that the 'tsuuka no kachi' (value of the currency) has changed. You are moving beyond just 'buying things' and starting to talk about 'the economy' in a simple way.
At the B2 level, you should use 'tsuuka' naturally in professional or academic contexts. You should understand the nuances of currency fluctuations, such as 'en-yasu' (weak yen) and 'en-daka' (strong yen), and how they relate to the 'tsuuka shijou' (currency market). You should be able to discuss the pros and cons of different currencies and understand terms like 'kijiku tsuuka' (key currency). At this level, you should also be comfortable with the passive voice and formal structures often paired with 'tsuuka,' such as 'tsuuka ga hakkou sareru' (currency is issued). You can participate in a debate about digital currency versus physical money.
At the C1 level, you must have a sophisticated grasp of 'tsuuka' and its role in macroeconomics. You should be able to discuss 'tsuuka seisaku' (monetary policy) and the role of the 'Chuuou Ginkou' (Central Bank) in stabilizing the currency. You should understand the historical evolution of currency from the gold standard to modern fiat systems. Your vocabulary should include advanced terms like 'houtei tsuuka' (legal tender), 'tsuuka kiki' (currency crisis), and 'tsuuka suwapu' (currency swap). You can read complex editorials in the Nikkei Shimbun and understand the subtle implications of currency intervention by the government.
At the C2 level, you use 'tsuuka' with the precision of a native professional. You can analyze the impact of 'tsuuka no ryuutsuuryou' (amount of currency in circulation) on inflation and interest rates. You can engage in high-level academic or political discourse regarding the future of 'digital tsuuka' and its impact on national sovereignty. You understand the philosophical and legal definitions of what constitutes a 'tsuuka' in the age of decentralized finance (DeFi). You can write professional reports or give presentations on international finance where 'tsuuka' is a foundational concept, using it with perfect grammatical accuracy and appropriate register.

通貨 30초 만에

  • A formal term for 'currency' used in economic and business contexts.
  • Refers to the system of money (Yen, Dollar) rather than physical cash in hand.
  • Commonly seen in news reports about exchange rates and national finance.
  • Essential for understanding modern terms like 'cryptocurrency' (仮想通貨).

The Japanese word 通貨 (tsuuka) is a formal and technical term that translates directly to 'currency' or 'legal tender.' While the average person in Japan uses the word okane (money) for daily transactions, tsuuka is reserved for discussions involving economics, national finance, international exchange, and the systemic nature of money. It refers to the medium of exchange that is officially recognized by a government and circulated within an economy. Understanding this word is crucial for anyone looking to navigate Japanese business news, academic texts, or high-level economic discussions.

Etymological Breakdown
The first kanji, (tsuu), means 'to pass through,' 'to commute,' or 'to flow.' This highlights the circulatory nature of money. The second kanji, (ka), means 'goods,' 'property,' or 'freight.' Together, they literally describe 'goods that flow' or 'value that circulates.'
Economic Scope
In a macro-economic context, tsuuka encompasses everything from physical banknotes and coins to digital representations of value managed by central banks. It is the unit of account that standardizes the value of goods and services across a nation.

日本の公式な通貨は円です。(Nihon no koushiki na tsuuka wa en desu.)

— Translation: The official currency of Japan is the Yen.

You will encounter this word frequently in the phrase 仮想通貨 (kasou tsuuka), which means 'virtual currency' or 'cryptocurrency.' As digital assets like Bitcoin became popular in Japan, this specific term entered the mainstream vocabulary, making the word tsuuka more common in daily news cycles than it was two decades ago. However, even with the rise of crypto, the word remains strictly tied to the concept of a 'system' of money rather than the physical cash in your wallet.

米ドルは世界で最も影響力のある通貨の一つです。(Bei-doru wa sekai de mottomo eikyouryoku no aru tsuuka no hitotsu desu.)

— Translation: The US dollar is one of the most influential currencies in the world.
Common Collocations
  • 通貨安定 (Tsuuka antei): Currency stability.
  • 通貨危機 (Tsuuka kiki): Currency crisis.
  • 基軸通貨 (Kijiku tsuuka): Key currency / Reserve currency.

この国では、複数の通貨が流通しています。(Kono kuni dewa, fukusuu no tsuuka ga ryuutsuu shite imasu.)

— Translation: Multiple currencies are in circulation in this country.

In summary, tsuuka is the word you use when you are looking at money from a distance—analyzing its value, its flow across borders, and its role in the global financial architecture. It is the language of the Nikkei newspaper, the Bank of Japan, and international trade agreements.

Using 通貨 (tsuuka) correctly requires a shift from personal finance to systemic finance. In English, we often use 'money' and 'currency' interchangeably in casual conversation, but in Japanese, tsuuka is almost never used to describe the act of paying for something. Instead, it is used to describe the identity or state of the money system. When constructing sentences, tsuuka often functions as a noun that is modified by adjectives or other nouns to specify a type or condition.

Describing National Identity
When talking about which currency a country uses, tsuuka is the standard term. You will often see the pattern '[Country Name] no tsuuka wa [Currency Name] desu.' This is the most basic and common way to use the word in a descriptive sense.

欧州連合の多くの国は、共通の通貨であるユーロを導入しました。(Oushuu rengou no ooku no kuni wa, kyoutsuu no tsuuka de aru yuuro o dounyuu shimashita.)

— Translation: Many countries in the European Union introduced the Euro, which is a common currency.

Another frequent usage involves the stability or value of money on the international market. For example, if the Yen is becoming very strong, economists might talk about tsuuka daka (strong currency) or tsuuka yasu (weak currency). These terms are essential for business professionals who deal with import and export, as the value of the tsuuka directly affects their profit margins.

中央銀行は、国内の通貨供給量を調整する役割を担っています。(Chuuou ginkou wa, kokunai no tsuuka kyuukyuuryou o chousei suru yakuwari o ninatte imasu.)

— Translation: The central bank bears the role of adjusting the domestic currency supply.
Technological Contexts
In the modern era, tsuuka is almost always used when discussing digital finance. Terms like denshi tsuuka (electronic currency) or angou tsuuka (cryptocurrency) are standard. Even 'points' in a loyalty program are sometimes discussed as a form of tsuuka within a specific ecosystem.

最近、ビットコインのような暗号通貨への投資が増えています。(Saikin, bittokoin no you na angou tsuuka e no toushi ga fuete imasu.)

— Translation: Recently, investment in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin has been increasing.

When you use tsuuka, you are signaling that you are talking about the 'what' and 'how' of money as a system, rather than the 'how much' of money as a possession. Use it when analyzing trends, discussing history, or explaining financial structures.

If you are walking down a street in Tokyo or chatting with friends at a café, you will likely not hear the word 通貨 (tsuuka). However, if you turn on the television or open a news app, it will appear almost immediately. The primary habitat for this word is the world of professional communication and media. It is a 'high-register' word that provides precision to economic reporting.

The News and Media
Every evening on NHK News or in the pages of the Nikkei Shimbun, tsuuka is used to describe fluctuations in the value of the Yen. News anchors might say, 'Tsuuka shijou wa kyou, en-yasu no keikou ni arimashita' (The currency market showed a trend toward a weak yen today). In this context, it sounds authoritative and official.

ニュース:『主要な通貨に対して円が急落しました。』(Nyuusu: Shuyou na tsuuka ni taishite en ga kyuuraku shimashita.)

— Translation: News: The yen plummeted against major currencies.

Another place you will hear this word is at a bank or a currency exchange counter (often labeled gaika ryougae - foreign currency exchange). While the sign might say 'Money Exchange,' the official forms you fill out will likely use the term gaika (foreign currency) or tsuuka to categorize the different types of money you are trading.

銀行の窓口:『どの通貨への両替をご希望ですか?』(Ginkou no madoguchi: Dono tsuuka e no ryougae o gokibou desu ka?)

— Translation: Bank Counter: Which currency would you like to exchange to?
Educational and Academic Settings
In Japanese high schools and universities, students learn about the 'three functions of currency' (tsuuka no san-kinou): medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value. Therefore, any educated Japanese speaker will associate tsuuka with school-level social studies and economics classes.

経済の授業:『通貨の価値は、その国の経済力に左右されます。』(Keizai no jugyou: Tsuuka no kachi wa, sono kuni no keizairyoku ni sayuu saremasu.)

— Translation: Economics class: The value of a currency is influenced by that country's economic power.

Finally, in the tech world, tsuuka is the buzzword of the decade. Startups, blockchain developers, and fintech enthusiasts use angou tsuuka (cryptocurrency) and denshi tsuuka (digital currency) constantly in meetings and presentations. If you are working in the Japanese tech sector, this word will be a daily staple of your vocabulary.

The most common mistake English speakers make when using 通貨 (tsuuka) is using it as a direct substitute for 'money' in everyday contexts. Because the English word 'currency' is slightly more formal than 'money,' learners often think they are just being polite by using tsuuka. However, in Japanese, it is not a matter of politeness, but a matter of category. Using tsuuka in the wrong place makes you sound like a textbook, not like a polite person.

Mistake 1: Paying with 'Currency'
If you say 'Tsuuka de haraimasu' (I will pay with currency), a Japanese person will be very confused. They might think you are trying to pay with a rare foreign coin or that you are making a joke about the nature of money. Always use genkin (cash) or okane (money) for the act of payment.

通貨を貸してください。(Tsuuka o kashite kudasai.)

— Incorrect: Please lend me some currency.

✅ お金を貸してください。(Okane o kashite kudasai.)

— Correct: Please lend me some money.

Another error is confusing tsuuka with kahei (coin/currency). While they overlap, kahei is often used specifically for physical coins or the historical concept of 'money-objects.' Tsuuka is the broader, more modern term for the monetary system itself.

❌ この店の通貨は高いですね。(Kono mise no tsuuka wa takai desu ne.)

— Incorrect: This store's currency is expensive (meaning prices).

✅ この店の値段は高いですね。(Kono mise no nedan wa takai desu ne.)

— Correct: This store's prices are high.
Mistake 2: Confusing 'Tsuuka' with 'Tsuuro'
Because they both start with the kanji 通 (tsuu), beginners sometimes mix up tsuuka (currency) with tsuuro (aisle/pathway). If you are on an airplane and ask for a 'tsuuka seat,' the flight attendant will be very confused. You want a 'tsuuro-gawa no seki' (aisle seat)!

通貨側の席をお願いします。(Tsuuka-gawa no seki o onegaishimasu.)

— Incorrect: I'd like a currency-side seat.

✅ 通路側の席をお願いします。(Tsuuro-gawa no seki o onegaishimasu.)

— Correct: I'd like an aisle seat.

To avoid these mistakes, always ask yourself: 'Am I talking about the abstract concept of a nation's money system, or am I talking about the physical money in my hand?' If it's the latter, reach for okane or genkin. If it's the former, tsuuka is your word.

Japanese has several words that relate to 'money' and 'currency.' Choosing the right one depends entirely on the context and the level of formality you wish to convey. Here is a breakdown of how 通貨 (tsuuka) compares to its closest relatives.

通貨 (Tsuuka) vs. お金 (Okane)
通貨: Formal, systemic, used in economics. Refers to the Yen, Dollar, etc., as a category. (e.g., 'The stability of the currency')
お金: General, everyday, used for everything from pocket money to bank balances. (e.g., 'I have no money')
通貨 (Tsuuka) vs. 貨幣 (Kahei)
通貨: Modern term, implies circulation and the system as a whole. Includes digital and paper money.
貨幣: Often used in historical contexts or specifically to refer to physical coins/money objects. In academic economics, kahei is sometimes used as a synonym for 'money' as a commodity.
通貨 (Tsuuka) vs. 現金 (Genkin)
通貨: The system (Yen).
現金: Physical cash (the bills and coins in your pocket). You use genkin to pay at a store that doesn't accept credit cards.

比較:『この国では通貨が不安定なので、人々は現金をすぐに使いたがります。』(Hikaku: Kono kuni dewa tsuuka ga fuantei na node, hitobito wa genkin o sugu ni tsukaitagarimasu.)

— Translation: Comparison: Because the currency is unstable in this country, people want to spend their cash immediately.

There is also the term 法定通貨 (houtei tsuuka), which means 'fiat currency' or 'legal tender.' This is used in legal documents to specify money that a creditor is legally obligated to accept for the discharge of a debt. In the world of crypto, this is the term used to distinguish 'real' money (like the Yen) from 'crypto' assets.

ビットコインはエルサルバドルで法定通貨として認められました。(Bittokoin wa Erusarubadoru de houtei tsuuka to shite mitomeraremashita.)

— Translation: Bitcoin was recognized as legal tender in El Salvador.

By mastering these distinctions, you will not only sound more natural but also demonstrate a deeper understanding of Japanese social and economic structures. Tsuuka is a powerful word—use it when you want to talk about the big picture.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The kanji 貨 (ka) contains the radical for 'shell' (貝), because shells were used as currency in ancient China and Japan.

발음 가이드

UK /tsuː.ka/
US /tsu.kɑ/
Flat pitch (Heiban style). Both syllables are pronounced with relatively equal emphasis, but the pitch usually stays level.
라임이 맞는 단어
Kuuka (Air/Void) Fuuka (Weathering) Suuka (A few) Yuuka (Valuable) Juuka (Heavy burden) Chuuka (Chinese) Shuuka (Autumn song) Guuka (Parable)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'tsu' as two separate sounds (t-su). It should be one crisp sound.
  • Stretching the 'u' too long. It is a short vowel.
  • Confusing it with 'tsuuka' (passing/transit), which is spelled the same in hiragana but has different kanji (通過). Context is key.

난이도

독해 3/5

The kanji are common but require knowing the 'ka' for goods/money.

쓰기 4/5

Writing '貨' can be tricky due to the many strokes.

말하기 2/5

Pronunciation is simple and flat.

듣기 3/5

Can be confused with 'tsuuka' (passing) if the context is unclear.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

お金 使う 買う

다음에 배울 것

為替 銀行 経済 価値 市場

고급

金本位制 管理通貨制度 デフレ 流動性 法定通貨

알아야 할 문법

Using '~という' with names

円という通貨 (A currency called Yen)

Nouns as adjectives with '~的な'

通貨的な価値 (Monetary value)

The particle 'に' for purpose

両替に銀行へ行く (Go to the bank for exchange)

Passive voice for official actions

通貨が発行される (Currency is issued)

Relative clauses with nouns

世界で使われている通貨 (Currency used in the world)

수준별 예문

1

日本の通貨は円です。

Japan's currency is the yen.

Simple A = B structure using the particle 'wa'.

2

アメリカの通貨は何ですか?

What is the currency of America?

Question form using 'nan desu ka'.

3

これはどこの国の通貨ですか?

Which country's currency is this?

Using 'doko no kuni' to ask for origin.

4

通貨の名前を覚えます。

I will memorize the names of currencies.

Direct object 'namae' followed by the verb 'oboemasu'.

5

きれいな通貨ですね。

It's a beautiful currency, isn't it?

Using the adjective 'kirei' to describe the noun.

6

通貨をたくさん持っています。

I have many (types of) currencies.

Using 'takusan' to indicate quantity.

7

この通貨は有名です。

This currency is famous.

Using 'yuumei' as a na-adjective predicate.

8

通貨を調べます。

I will look up the currency.

Simple verb 'shirabemasu' (to investigate/look up).

1

旅行の前に、通貨を両替します。

I will exchange currency before my trip.

Using 'mae ni' (before) with a noun.

2

世界の通貨について勉強しました。

I studied about the world's currencies.

Using 'nitsuite' (about) to indicate the topic.

3

どの通貨が一番強いですか?

Which currency is the strongest?

Superlative 'ichiban' used with the adjective 'tsuyoi'.

4

この国では、二つの通貨が使えます。

In this country, you can use two currencies.

Potential form 'tsukaemasu' (can use).

5

外国の通貨を集めるのが趣味です。

My hobby is collecting foreign currencies.

Nominalizing the verb 'atsumeru' with 'no'.

6

通貨の価値が下がりました。

The value of the currency went down.

Noun 'kachi' (value) followed by the verb 'sagarimashita'.

7

新しい通貨が作られました。

A new currency was created.

Passive form 'tsukuraremashita' (was made).

8

通貨を大切に扱ってください。

Please handle the currency with care.

Adverbial use of 'taisetsu ni' with 'atsukatte kudasai'.

1

仮想通貨の仕組みを理解するのは難しい。

Understanding the mechanism of cryptocurrency is difficult.

Nominalized clause 'shikumi o rikai suru no' as the subject.

2

通貨の安定は、国の経済にとって重要です。

Currency stability is important for a country's economy.

Using 'ni totte' (for / from the perspective of).

3

海外に行くとき、どの通貨を持っていくべきですか?

When going abroad, which currency should I take?

Using 'beki desu ka' to ask for a recommendation or duty.

4

その国は独自の通貨を発行しています。

That country issues its own currency.

The verb 'hakkou suru' (to issue) is a standard collocation.

5

通貨の変動が激しいので注意が必要です。

Caution is necessary because currency fluctuations are intense.

Using 'node' to provide a reason/cause.

6

このアプリで、世界の通貨を計算できます。

You can calculate world currencies with this app.

Using the particle 'de' to indicate the tool/means.

7

通貨危機が起こると、物価が上がります。

When a currency crisis occurs, prices go up.

Conditional 'to' indicating a natural consequence.

8

共通通貨の導入にはメリットとデメリットがあります。

There are merits and demerits to introducing a common currency.

Using 'niwa' to indicate the scope of the existence.

1

通貨の価値を維持するために、中央銀行が介入した。

The central bank intervened to maintain the value of the currency.

Using 'tame ni' to express purpose.

2

デジタル通貨の普及により、現金の需要が減っている。

Due to the spread of digital currency, the demand for cash is decreasing.

Using 'ni yori' to indicate a cause or means.

3

基軸通貨としてのアメリカドルの地位は揺るぎない。

The US dollar's position as a key currency is unshakable.

Using 'to shite no' to indicate a role or capacity.

4

通貨の供給量を増やすと、インフレが加速する恐れがある。

Increasing the money supply carries the risk of accelerating inflation.

Using 'osore ga aru' to express a negative possibility or risk.

5

為替レートは、通貨間の相対的な価値を示している。

Exchange rates show the relative value between currencies.

Using 'kan no' to show a relationship between two things.

6

政府は、通貨の偽造を防ぐために新しい技術を導入した。

The government introduced new technology to prevent currency counterfeiting.

The verb 'fusegu' (to prevent) used with 'tame ni'.

7

通貨の流通範囲が拡大し、経済圏が広がった。

The range of currency circulation expanded, and the economic zone grew.

Using the 'te-form' (implied) or stem-form to link clauses.

8

投資家は、より安定した通貨に資金を移動させている。

Investors are moving their funds to more stable currencies.

Using the continuous form 'sasete iru' (causative + continuous).

1

通貨の信認が揺らぐと、国家の経済基盤そのものが危うくなる。

If trust in the currency is shaken, the very economic foundation of the nation becomes endangered.

Using 'sono mono' to emphasize 'the thing itself'.

2

歴史的に見て、通貨の統合は政治的な統合への第一歩であった。

Historically speaking, currency integration was the first step toward political integration.

Using 'rekishiteki ni mite' (from a historical perspective).

3

通貨スワップ協定は、金融危機の際のセーフティネットとして機能する。

Currency swap agreements function as a safety net during financial crises.

The technical term 'tsuuka suwapu kyoutei'.

4

中央銀行の独立性は、通貨の価値を長期的かつ安定的に保つために不可欠だ。

The independence of the central bank is indispensable for maintaining currency value stably over the long term.

Using 'fukaketsu da' (is indispensable).

5

通貨の購買力が低下することは、実質的な賃金の減少を意味する。

A decline in the purchasing power of currency means a substantial decrease in wages.

Using 'koto wa ... o imi suru' to define a consequence.

6

多国籍企業にとって、通貨リスクのヘッジは重要な経営課題である。

For multinational corporations, hedging currency risk is a critical management issue.

Using 'keiei kadai' (management task/issue).

7

通貨制度の変遷を辿ると、人類の文明の歩みが見えてくる。

Tracing the transition of currency systems reveals the progress of human civilization.

Using 'o tadoru to' (if you trace...).

8

法定通貨のデジタル化は、プライバシー保護の観点から議論を呼んでいる。

The digitalization of legal tender is sparking debate from the perspective of privacy protection.

Using 'no kanten kara' (from the viewpoint of).

1

通貨の流動性が枯渇すれば、市場機能は瞬く間に麻痺してしまうだろう。

If currency liquidity were to dry up, market functions would likely be paralyzed in an instant.

Using 'matataku ma ni' (in the blink of an eye) and 'mahi shite shimau'.

2

最適通貨圏の理論に基づき、ユーロ圏の構造的な脆弱性が指摘されている。

Based on the theory of optimum currency areas, the structural vulnerabilities of the Eurozone are being pointed out.

Highly academic 'saiteki tsuukaken no riron' (Optimum Currency Area theory).

3

通貨の覇権争いは、単なる経済的競争を超えた地政学的な対立へと発展している。

The struggle for currency hegemony has evolved into a geopolitical confrontation that transcends mere economic competition.

Using 'o koeta' (transcending/beyond).

4

通貨供給の過剰な拡大は、資産価格のバブルを醸成し、格差を拡大させる要因となる。

Excessive expansion of the money supply fosters asset price bubbles and becomes a factor in widening inequality.

Using 'jousei suru' (to foster/brew) in a metaphorical sense.

5

通貨の信認を担保するのは、最終的にはその国の徴税権と法秩序である。

What guarantees the credibility of a currency is, ultimately, the nation's power to tax and its legal order.

Using 'tanpou suru' (to guarantee/collateralize).

6

管理通貨制度の下では、中央銀行の規律がインフレ抑制の鍵を握る。

Under a managed currency system, the discipline of the central bank holds the key to controlling inflation.

Technical term 'kanri tsuuka seido' (managed currency system).

7

通貨の脱中心化を標榜する技術は、既存の金融システムの在り方を根本から問い直している。

Technologies advocating for the decentralization of currency are fundamentally re-examining the nature of existing financial systems.

Using 'o hyoubou suru' (to advocate/profess).

8

通貨価値の減価を防ぐための為替介入は、国際的な協調がなければ持続不可能である。

Currency intervention to prevent the depreciation of currency value is unsustainable without international cooperation.

Using 'ji-zoku fukanou' (unsustainable).

자주 쓰는 조합

通貨を発行する
通貨を両替する
通貨が安定する
通貨が下落する
仮想通貨
基軸通貨
通貨供給量
通貨危機
通貨制度
通貨単位

자주 쓰는 구문

通貨の価値

— The value of a currency. Used to discuss inflation or exchange rates.

インフレで通貨の価値が下がった。

主要通貨

— Major currencies. Refers to the Yen, Dollar, Euro, and Pound.

主要通貨のレートをチェックする。

共通通貨

— Common currency. Used when multiple countries share one system like the Euro.

共通通貨の導入について話し合う。

電子通貨

— Electronic currency. Used for digital forms of money.

電子通貨の利用者が増えている。

暗号通貨

— Cryptocurrency. The formal term for Bitcoin and similar assets.

暗号通貨は価格変動が激しい。

地域通貨

— Local currency. Currency used only in a specific town or community.

町おこしのために地域通貨を作る。

通貨の流通

— Circulation of currency. The movement of money through an economy.

通貨の流通をスムーズにする。

通貨の信認

— Confidence in a currency. The level of trust people have in a money system.

政府への不信感が通貨の信認を下げた。

通貨ペア

— Currency pair. A term used in forex trading (e.g., USD/JPY).

人気の通貨ペアで取引する。

硬貨と紙幣

— Coins and banknotes. The physical components of a currency.

通貨には硬貨と紙幣がある。

자주 혼동되는 단어

通貨 vs 通過 (Tsuuka)

Spelled the same in hiragana, but means 'passing through' or 'transit' (e.g., passing an exam).

通貨 vs 通路 (Tsuuro)

Means 'aisle' or 'pathway'. Often confused by beginners due to the 'tsuu' kanji.

通貨 vs 貨物 (Kamotsu)

Means 'cargo' or 'freight'. Shares the 'ka' kanji but refers to physical goods.

관용어 및 표현

"通貨の番人"

— The guardian of the currency. A nickname for the Central Bank (Bank of Japan).

日本銀行は通貨の番人と呼ばれる。

Journalistic
"悪貨は良貨を駆逐する"

— Bad money drives out good money (Gresham's Law).

経済学の授業で『悪貨は良貨を駆逐する』と習った。

Academic/Idiomatic
"円の独歩安"

— The yen's solitary decline. Used when only the yen is falling against all other currencies.

市場では円の独歩安が進んでいる。

Financial News
"通貨マフィア"

— Currency Mafia. A slang term for high-level international finance officials.

通貨マフィアたちが秘密の会合を開いた。

Political Slang
"札束で頬を叩く"

— To slap someone's cheek with a wad of bills. To try to solve a problem or win someone over using only money.

彼は札束で頬を叩くようなやり方で契約を取った。

Idiomatic/Critical
"金を唸らせる"

— To have so much money that it 'groans.' To be extremely wealthy.

彼は一生かかっても使い切れないほど金を唸らせている。

Informal Idiom
"金に糸目をつけない"

— To spend money without limit. To not care about the cost.

彼は趣味のカメラには金に糸目をつけない。

Idiomatic
"地獄の沙汰も金次第"

— Even the judgments in hell depend on money. Money can solve any problem.

世の中、結局は地獄の沙汰も金次第だ。

Proverbial
"金は天下の回り物"

— Money is a thing that circulates throughout the world. Don't worry too much about losing it; it comes and goes.

損をしても気にするな。金は天下の回り物だ。

Proverbial
"安物買いの銭失い"

— Buying cheap things and losing money. Being penny-wise and pound-foolish.

安い靴を買ったがすぐに壊れた。安物買いの銭失いだった。

Proverbial

혼동하기 쉬운

通貨 vs お金 (Okane)

Both mean money.

'Okane' is for daily life; 'Tsuuka' is for economic systems.

お金を払う vs. 通貨の安定。

通貨 vs 現金 (Genkin)

Both relate to payment.

'Genkin' is physical cash; 'Tsuuka' is the abstract currency system.

現金がない vs. ドルという通貨。

通貨 vs 貨幣 (Kahei)

Both mean currency.

'Kahei' is more academic/historical; 'Tsuuka' is more modern/circulatory.

貨幣博物館 vs. 仮想通貨。

通貨 vs 資金 (Shikin)

Both refer to money resources.

'Shikin' refers to 'funds' for a project; 'Tsuuka' refers to the medium of exchange.

留学の資金 vs. 日本の通貨。

通貨 vs 為替 (Kawase)

Both used in international finance.

'Kawase' is the exchange process/rate; 'Tsuuka' is the object being exchanged.

為替レート vs. 基軸通貨。

문장 패턴

A1

[Country] no tsuuka wa [Name] desu.

イギリスの通貨はポンドです。

A2

[Name] to iu tsuuka o tsukaimasu.

ユーロという通貨を使います。

B1

Tsuuka no [Noun] ga [Verb].

通貨の価値が上がりました。

B2

Tsuuka o [Verb-tame] ni [Action].

通貨を守るために介入しました。

C1

Tsuuka no [Noun] ni yoru [Noun].

通貨の変動による経済への影響。

C2

[Technical Term] to shite no tsuuka.

価値の保存手段としての通貨。

B1

Kasou tsuuka ni [Verb].

仮想通貨に投資する。

B2

Tsuuka ryougae no [Noun].

通貨両替の手数料。

어휘 가족

명사

通貨 (Currency)
外貨 (Foreign currency)
硬貨 (Coin)
紙幣 (Banknote)
貨幣 (Money/Coin)

동사

通貨を発行する (To issue currency)
通貨を流通させる (To circulate currency)

형용사

通貨的な (Monetary)

관련

為替 (Exchange)
経済 (Economy)
銀行 (Bank)
投資 (Investment)
インフレ (Inflation)

사용법

frequency

High in news/business, Low in casual daily speech.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'tsuuka' to ask for a loan. Okane o kashite.

    'Tsuuka' is too formal and technical for personal requests.

  • Writing '通過' (passing) when you mean currency. 通貨

    These are homophones. Check your kanji carefully!

  • Saying 'tsuuka o harau'. Okane o harau / Genkin de harau.

    You pay with money or cash, not with 'the currency system'.

  • Using 'tsuuka' for a single coin. Kouka (硬貨).

    'Tsuuka' is the whole system; 'kouka' is the physical coin.

  • Confusing 'tsuuka' with 'tsuuro' (aisle). Tsuuro-gawa no seki.

    Very common mistake in travel contexts. 'Tsuuro' is for walking; 'Tsuuka' is for spending.

Context is King

Only use 'tsuuka' when discussing the system. For everything else, use 'okane'.

Shell Radical

The bottom of '貨' is '貝' (shell). Remember that shells were the first 'tsuuka'!

Compound Power

Learn 'kasou tsuuka' (crypto) as a single block; it's the most common way to hear 'tsuuka' today.

Pitch Check

Listen for the flat pitch. If the pitch drops, it might be a different word.

Airport Practice

Next time you are at an airport, look for the 'Currency Exchange' sign and say 'Tsuuka ryougae' to yourself.

Cashless Trend

Japan is changing. Modern 'tsuuka' is becoming digital. Learn 'kyasshuresu' along with 'tsuuka'.

News Headlines

Look for '通貨' in the business section of news websites. It's usually followed by 'yasu' (cheap) or 'daka' (expensive).

No 'The'

Don't try to translate 'the currency'. Just 'tsuuka' is enough in Japanese.

Two-Cars

Remember: You need 'Tsuu-Ka' (Two Cars) worth of currency to be rich.

The Flow

Always remember the 'tsuu' means 'to flow'. Currency must move to be useful.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Tsuuka' as 'Tsu' (Two) 'Ka' (Cars). You need 'Currency' to buy Two Cars. Or, remember 'Tsu' (Flow) and 'Ka' (Goods). Money is goods that flow.

시각적 연상

Imagine a giant river of yen coins flowing through a city. The 'flow' is the 'Tsu' (通) and the 'coins' are the 'Ka' (貨).

Word Web

Yen Dollar Bank Market Crypto Exchange Value Stability

챌린지

Try to find three different 'tsuuka' symbols in your wallet or online ($, ¥, €) and say 'Kore wa [Name] to iu tsuuka desu.'

어원

The term 'tsuuka' is a Sinitic (Chinese-origin) word. It was adopted into Japanese to describe the formal concept of money that circulates.

원래 의미: Circulating goods/property.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

문화적 맥락

Be careful when discussing the 'value' of currency with business partners, as 'en-yasu' (weak yen) can be a sensitive topic for companies that rely on imports.

In English, we use 'currency' mostly for foreign money. In Japanese, 'tsuuka' is used for both domestic and foreign money in formal contexts.

The Bank of Japan (Nippon Ginko) Bitcoin (the first major virtual tsuuka) The Euro (a famous common tsuuka)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At the Airport

  • 通貨を両替したいです。
  • レートはいくらですか?
  • どの通貨が使えますか?
  • 日本円に替えてください。

Watching the News

  • 円が主要通貨に対して高い。
  • 通貨危機の影響。
  • 仮想通貨の暴落。
  • 新しい通貨の発行。

Economic Class

  • 通貨の三機能。
  • 基軸通貨の役割。
  • 通貨供給量の調整。
  • インフレと通貨価値。

Investing

  • 通貨ペアを選ぶ。
  • 将来性のある通貨。
  • 通貨リスクを分散する。
  • ステーブルコイン(安定通貨)。

International Business

  • 決済通貨は何にしますか?
  • 通貨変動の対策。
  • 現地通貨での支払い。
  • 通貨スワップの利用。

대화 시작하기

"あなたの国の通貨は何ですか? (What is your country's currency?)"

"仮想通貨に興味がありますか? (Are you interested in cryptocurrency?)"

"海外旅行のとき、通貨の両替はどうしていますか? (How do you handle currency exchange when traveling abroad?)"

"円安についてどう思いますか? (What do you think about the weak yen?)"

"将来、紙の通貨はなくなると思いますか? (Do you think paper currency will disappear in the future?)"

일기 주제

今日、使った通貨(お金)について書いてください。 (Write about the currency/money you used today.)

もし新しい通貨を作るとしたら、どんな名前にしますか? (If you were to create a new currency, what name would you give it?)

キャッシュレス社会について、あなたの意見を書いてください。 (Write your opinion on a cashless society.)

子供の頃、通貨やお金についてどう思っていましたか? (What did you think about currency and money when you were a child?)

旅行で行った国の中で、一番デザインが好きな通貨は何ですか? (Which currency has the design you like best among the countries you've visited?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

No. You should use 'genkin' (cash) or 'kaado' (card). If you say 'tsuuka', the waiter will not understand you are trying to pay. It is a technical term.

'Tsuuka' emphasizes the flow and circulation of money in a modern economy. 'Kahei' is often used for physical coins or in historical contexts. In most modern news, 'tsuuka' is preferred.

Yes, in Japanese it is called '仮想通貨' (kasou tsuuka - virtual currency) or '暗号資産' (angou shisan - crypto asset). The term 'tsuuka' is used because it acts as a medium of exchange.

Because money 'passes' from person to person. The essence of currency is its circulation throughout society. Without 'passing', it's just a piece of paper.

It means 'key currency' or 'reserve currency.' Currently, the US Dollar is the world's primary 'kijiku tsuuka' because it is used for most international trade.

The full term is 'gaikoku tsuuka', but it is almost always shortened to 'gaika' (外貨) in daily business and travel contexts.

Sometimes! It can be called 'geemu-nai tsuuka' (in-game currency). This shows how the word is used for any system of exchange.

It means 'currency stability.' This is a major goal for central banks, ensuring that the value of money doesn't change too fast.

No, it is a noun. To say 'to use as currency', you would say 'tsuuka to shite tsukau'.

Yes. In Japanese, there is no plural form. You distinguish by context or by using 'shurui' (types).

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Write 'Japan's currency is the yen' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I will exchange currency at the airport' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Is cryptocurrency safe?' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The value of the currency is unstable.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The central bank adjusts the money supply.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'What is this currency?' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I have foreign currency.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Currency stability is important for the economy.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The US dollar is the key currency.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'A currency crisis occurred in Asia.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Currency' in Kanji.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I studied currency.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'There are many types of currency.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Digital currency is spreading.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Bitcoin was recognized as legal tender.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The struggle for currency hegemony continues.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I want to know the exchange rate.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'This is a famous currency.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The government issues new currency.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Inflation decreases purchasing power.' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Japanese currency' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Currency exchange, please' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'What is virtual currency?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The currency is stable' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explain the role of a central bank using 'tsuuka'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'This currency is the dollar.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I study world currencies.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The value of the yen went down.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Is digital currency popular?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'We discussed the currency crisis.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Tsuuka' clearly.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Which currency do you use?'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Bitcoin is a famous cryptocurrency.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The exchange rate changed.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Legal tender is important.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The future of currency is digital.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I want to exchange yen for dollars.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'There are many currencies.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The central bank intervenes.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Inflation hurts purchasing power.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 日本の通貨は円です。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 通貨の両替所はどこですか?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 仮想通貨のニュースを見ました。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 通貨の価値が安定しています。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 通貨危機が世界経済を揺るがした。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: これはドルの通貨です。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 外国の通貨は面白いですね。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 通貨のレートを調べてください。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 主要な通貨が下落しました。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 法定通貨の信認を守る。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: つうか (Tsuuka)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 新しい通貨の発行。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 地域通貨の導入事例。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 通貨供給量の調整が必要だ。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify: 通貨スワップのメリット。

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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