財産
財産 30초 만에
- A formal noun meaning 'property' or 'assets', covering everything from cash and houses to intellectual property and personal experiences.
- Commonly used in legal contexts like inheritance (遺産) and property division (財産分与), as well as in business and news reports.
- Can be used metaphorically to describe non-material things of high value, such as 'health is an asset' or 'friends are assets'.
- Distinguished from 'shisan' (assets) by its more personal and inclusive nuance, often referring to a family's total accumulated wealth.
The Japanese word 財産 (zaisan) is a fundamental noun that translates most directly to 'property' or 'assets' in English. However, its usage spans a broad spectrum from the strictly legal and financial to the deeply personal and metaphorical. At its core, 財産 represents anything of value that an individual, a family, or an organization possesses. This includes tangible items like real estate, cash, and jewelry, as well as intangible assets like intellectual property, stocks, and even one's health or friendships. Understanding 財産 requires looking at its two constituent kanji: 財 (zai), which refers to wealth, money, or materials, and 産 (san), which relates to production, birth, or yield. Together, they form a concept of 'accumulated value' that sustains one's life or business.
- Financial Context
- In a bank or legal setting, 財産 refers to the sum total of a person's net worth. This includes 負債 (fusai - liabilities) and 純財産 (jun-zaisan - net assets). If you are applying for a loan or writing a will, this is the term you will encounter most frequently.
- Metaphorical Context
- Japanese culture places a high value on non-material wealth. You will often hear people say 'Health is the greatest asset' (健康は最大の財産である). In this sense, 財産 is anything that enriches your life and cannot be easily replaced.
彼は莫大な財産を築いた。 (He built up a vast fortune.)
When compared to the word 資産 (shisan), which is also translated as 'assets,' 財産 feels slightly more inclusive of personal belongings and inheritance. 資産 is often preferred in modern accounting and investment contexts, whereas 財産 is the standard term for inheritance (遺産 - isan) and family wealth. For instance, 'property division' during a divorce or inheritance is always 財産分与 (zaisan bun-yo). It carries a weight of history and personal ownership that 資産 sometimes lacks.
この経験は私にとって一生の財産です。 (This experience is a lifelong asset to me.)
- Public vs. Private
- 公的財産 (kōteki zaisan) refers to public property, while 私的財産 (shiteki zaisan) refers to private property. This distinction is vital in civic and legal discussions.
In summary, 財産 is a versatile word that bridges the gap between the bank account and the soul. Whether you are discussing the 'Intellectual Property' (知的財産 - chiteki zaisan) of a tech giant or the 'shared assets' of a long marriage, this word provides the necessary linguistic framework to discuss value in all its forms. It is a B1-level word because while the concept is simple, its application in compound nouns and metaphorical expressions requires a more nuanced understanding of Japanese societal values regarding wealth and legacy.
Using 財産 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and its ability to form compound words. In its simplest form, it acts as the object of verbs like 'have' (持っている), 'lose' (失う), 'increase' (増やす), or 'protect' (守る). Because it covers a wide range of meanings, the context usually dictates whether you are talking about money, land, or something abstract. For English speakers, it's helpful to think of it as 'property' when referring to land or things, and 'assets' when referring to money or value.
親から譲り受けた財産を大切にする。 (I cherish the property I inherited from my parents.)
- Verbal Pairings
- 財産を築く (zaisan o kizuku): To build a fortune. This uses the verb 'to build' (as in a physical structure), implying a long-term, deliberate effort to accumulate wealth.
- 財産を投げ打つ (zaisan o nageutsu): To throw away or sacrifice one's fortune for a cause.
Grammatically, 財産 is often modified by adjectives or other nouns using the particle 'no' (の). For example, 'individual assets' is 個人の財産 (kojin no zaisan). When describing the scale of wealth, you might use 莫大な (bakudai na - vast) or わずかな (wazuka na - meager). It is also frequently found in the pattern [Noun] + は + [Person] + の + 財産だ, meaning '[Noun] is [Person]'s asset'.
知識は誰にも奪えない財産だ。 (Knowledge is an asset that no one can take away.)
Another common usage is in legal or administrative contexts. In these cases, 財産 is often part of a compound. For example, 'Property tax' is 財産税 (zaisan-zei), though more commonly referred to as 固定資産税 (kotei-shisan-zei) for real estate. 'Asset management' is 財産管理 (zaisan kanri). If you are reading a news report about a corporate scandal, you might see 財産隠し (zaisan kakushi - hiding assets).
In social settings, talking about 財産 can be sensitive. Japanese culture generally discourages boasting about wealth (自慢 - jiman). However, discussing 財産 in the context of family planning, inheritance, or social contribution is considered responsible and mature. Using the word in its metaphorical sense ('My children are my treasure/property') is a very common way to express deep affection without sounding materialistic.
You will encounter 財産 in a variety of real-world scenarios in Japan, ranging from news broadcasts to emotional dramas. On the evening news, reporters often discuss 財産 when covering legal disputes, bankruptcies, or the financial disclosures of politicians. In these contexts, the word sounds formal and serious. For example, during a report on a natural disaster, the announcer might mention the loss of life and property (生命と財産 - seimei to zaisan), emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
国民の生命と財産を守るのが政府の役目だ。 (Protecting the lives and property of the citizens is the government's duty.)
In the workplace, particularly in creative or tech industries, 'Intellectual Property' (知的財産 - chiteki zaisan) is a buzzword. You will hear it in meetings regarding patents, copyrights, and trademarks. Companies often have a 'Chizai-bu' (知的財産部), which is the Intellectual Property Department. This usage highlights the modern shift of the word into the realm of intangible business value.
- TV Dramas and Literature
- Dramas involving family feuds often center around 財産分与 (division of assets) or 遺産相続 (inheritance). Characters might argue over a 'huge fortune' (巨万の財産 - kyoman no zaisan) left behind by a patriarch.
- Daily Conversation
- In more casual settings, you'll hear it used to describe valuable life experiences. A graduation speech might include the phrase: 'The friendships you made here are your greatest assets' (ここで作った友人は君たちの財産だ).
At the bank or a real estate office, the word is ubiquitous. If you are looking to buy a house, the agent might discuss the 'asset value' (財産価値 - zaisan kachi) of the property. When filling out official documents, such as tax returns or visa applications that require proof of funds, you will see sections labeled 財産状況 (zaisan jōkyō - financial status/asset situation).
Finally, in the world of sports or hobbies, a player's skills or a collector's items are often referred to as their 財産. A veteran athlete might say their 'experience is their greatest asset' (経験こそが私の財産だ). This shows that while the word has a strong financial base, its emotional resonance in Japanese is tied to the idea of anything that provides a foundation for one's identity or future success.
One of the most common mistakes learners make is confusing 財産 (zaisan) with 資産 (shisan). While they are often interchangeable, 資産 is more technical and typically refers to 'assets' in a balance sheet sense—things that can generate future income. 財産 is broader and more personal. For example, you wouldn't usually refer to your 'dear friends' as 資産; you would use 財産 to emphasize their emotional value. Conversely, in a formal corporate financial report, 資産 is the standard term.
❌ この家は私の重要な遺産です。 (This house is my important inheritance - when you mean it's your asset/property now.)
✅ この家は私の大切な財産です。 (This house is my precious property.)
Another mistake is using 財産 when you specifically mean 'land' or 'buildings' in a physical sense. If you want to say 'He owns a lot of property' (meaning many plots of land), 土地 (tochi - land) or 不動産 (fudōsan - real estate) is more precise. 財産 refers to the *wealth* represented by that property, not necessarily the dirt and bricks themselves.
- Mistake: Over-formalization
- Using 財産 in very casual conversations about small items. If you lost your wallet, you wouldn't say 'I lost my 財産'. You'd say 'I lost my wallet' (財布をなくした). 財産 implies a significant or total amount of one's belongings.
- Mistake: Confusing with 'Legacy'
- While 財産 can mean a legacy, the word 遺産 (isan) is specifically for things left behind after death. Using 財産 for a deceased person's estate is correct, but 遺産 is more common if you are focusing on the act of it being passed down.
English speakers also tend to misuse the word when referring to 'possessions' (持ち物 - mochimono). 財産 has a connotation of value and permanence. Your 'possessions' are just things you have with you; your 'property/assets' (財産) are things that constitute your wealth. Don't use 財産 for your gym bag or your lunch!
Lastly, ensure you don't confuse 財産 (zaisan) with 財政 (zaisei). 財政 refers to 'public finance' or the 'financial affairs' of a government or large organization. If you are talking about the country's budget, use 財政; if you are talking about the country's resources or wealth, you might use 財産, though it's less common in that specific context.
To truly master 財産, it's essential to understand the words that surround it in the Japanese 'wealth' vocabulary. Depending on the nuance you want to convey—whether it's raw cash, inherited land, or a metaphorical treasure—you might choose a different term. Here is a breakdown of the most common alternatives.
- 資産 (Shisan) - Assets
- This is the closest synonym. It is used in business, accounting, and investment. While 財産 includes things with sentimental value, 資産 is almost exclusively about economic value. Example: 資産運用 (shisan un-yō - asset management/investment).
- 遺産 (Isan) - Inheritance / Legacy
- This refers specifically to 財産 left behind by someone who has passed away. It is also used for 'World Heritage' (世界遺産 - sekai isan).
- 宝 (Takara) - Treasure
- A more emotional and less formal word. Children are often called 'treasures' (子宝 - kodakara). You wouldn't use this in a legal document, but you would use it in a heartfelt letter.
- 富 (Tomi) - Wealth / Riches
- This refers to the state of being rich or the abundance of resources. It's more abstract than 財産. Example: 富を築く (tomi o kizuku - to build wealth).
彼は不動産王だ。 (He is a real estate king.)
If you are specifically talking about 'Real Estate,' the word is 不動産 (fudōsan). This is a subset of 財産. In Japan, real estate is often the largest portion of a person's 財産. Similarly, 持ち物 (mochimono) refers to 'personal belongings' or 'things on one's person'. If a sign says 'Watch your belongings,' it will use 持ち物, not 財産.
Finally, for 'Public Property,' you might hear 公共物 (kōkyōbutsu) or 公有財産 (kōyū zaisan). The former refers to physical things like park benches, while the latter refers to the legal ownership of assets by the state. Choosing the right word demonstrates a high level of Japanese proficiency and an understanding of the social context of value.
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The 'shell' radical (貝) in the first kanji 財 indicates its historical connection to money, as shells were used as currency in ancient times.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'san' like the English word 'sun'. It should be more like 'sahn'.
- Stressing the second syllable like 'zai-SAN'. The stress is usually at the start.
- Confusing the 'z' sound with an 's' sound (saisan).
- Mixing up with 'shisan' (assets).
- Forgetting the long nasal 'n' at the end.
난이도
The kanji are common but require attention to the radicals. Used frequently in news.
Writing the kanji 'zai' and 'san' correctly takes practice, especially the strokes in 'san'.
Pronunciation is straightforward, but pitch accent must be correct.
Can be confused with 'shisan' or 'zaisei' in fast speech.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
N1 は N2 の財産だ
このコレクションは私の財産だ。
財産を + Verb (Transitive)
財産を増やす / 財産を分ける。
Noun + という財産
経験という財産。
財産 + Noun (Compound)
財産管理、財産税。
Adjective + 財産
莫大な財産、個人的な財産。
수준별 예문
彼はたくさんの財産を持っています。
He has a lot of property/assets.
Uses the standard 'Noun + o + motte iru' (have Noun) structure.
これは私の大切な財産です。
This is my precious property/asset.
Uses 'taisetsu na' (precious) to modify 'zaisan'.
王様は大きな財産がありました。
The king had a large fortune.
Uses 'ga arimashita' to indicate possession/existence.
財産は、お金や家です。
Property/assets are things like money and houses.
Simple A wa B desu definition structure.
彼は財産をなくしました。
He lost his fortune.
Uses the verb 'nakusu' (to lose).
あなたの財産は何ですか?
What is your property/asset?
A simple question using 'nan desu ka'.
この本は私の財産です。
This book is my asset (treasure).
Metaphorical use at a basic level.
財産を大切にしましょう。
Let's take care of our property.
Uses 'mashō' for a suggestion.
彼は親の財産を譲り受けた。
He inherited his parents' property.
Uses 'yuzuriukeru' (to inherit/receive).
健康は一番の財産だと言われます。
It is said that health is the number one asset.
Uses the passive 'iwaremasu' (is said).
彼女は自分の財産をすべて寄付した。
She donated all of her assets.
Uses 'subete' (all) and 'kifu suru' (to donate).
泥棒に財産を盗まれた。
My property was stolen by a thief.
Uses the adversity passive 'nusumareta'.
将来のために財産を増やしたい。
I want to increase my assets for the future.
Uses 'tame ni' (for the sake of) and 'fuyashitai' (want to increase).
この村には多くの財産があります。
There are many assets/properties in this village.
Refers to collective assets of a location.
彼は財産目当てで彼女と結婚した。
He married her for her money (fortune).
'Meate' means 'for the purpose of' or 'aiming for'.
火事で財産をすべて失った。
I lost all my property in the fire.
Uses 'de' to indicate the cause of loss.
知的財産を守ることは重要です。
It is important to protect intellectual property.
Introduces the compound 'chiteki zaisan'.
彼は一代で莫大な財産を築き上げた。
He built up a vast fortune in a single generation.
Uses 'kizukiageru' (to build up/accumulate).
離婚の際、財産分与について話し合った。
During the divorce, we discussed the division of assets.
Uses 'zaisan bun-yo' (division of assets).
この経験は、将来の私にとって大きな財産になるだろう。
This experience will likely be a great asset for me in the future.
Metaphorical use with the future conjecture 'darō'.
政府は国民の生命と財産を守る義務がある。
The government has a duty to protect the lives and property of its citizens.
Formal phrase 'seimei to zaisan' (lives and property).
彼は財産を管理するために専門家を雇った。
He hired an expert to manage his assets.
Uses 'zaisan o kanri suru' (to manage assets).
その古い家は、歴史的な財産として保存されている。
The old house is preserved as a historical asset.
Uses 'toshite' (as) to indicate role.
彼女は財産を隠していたことが発覚した。
It was discovered that she had been hiding assets.
Uses 'hakkaku shita' (was revealed/discovered).
不況により、多くの企業が財産を処分せざるを得なかった。
Due to the recession, many companies were forced to dispose of their assets.
Uses 'sezaru o enakatta' (had no choice but to).
彼は財産を投げ打って、恵まれない子供たちのために学校を建てた。
He sacrificed his fortune to build a school for underprivileged children.
Idiom 'zaisan o nageutsu' (to give up one's fortune).
この土地の財産価値は、今後上昇すると予想されている。
The asset value of this land is expected to rise in the future.
Uses 'zaisan kachi' (asset value) and 'yosō sarete iru' (is expected).
彼は私有財産の没収という厳しい処分を受けた。
He received a severe punishment: the confiscation of his private property.
Uses 'shiyū zaisan' (private property) and 'bosshū' (confiscation).
文化財の保護は、国を挙げて取り組むべき課題だ。
Protecting cultural assets is an issue that the whole country should address.
Uses 'bunka-zai' (cultural assets) and 'beki' (should).
遺言書には財産の半分を妻に譲ると記されていた。
The will stated that half of the assets would be left to the wife.
Uses 'yuzuru' (to hand over/leave to).
彼女の才能は、この劇団にとってかけがえのない財産だ。
Her talent is an irreplaceable asset to this theater troupe.
Uses 'kakegae no nai' (irreplaceable).
財産状態を正確に把握することは、経営の基本である。
Accurately grasping the state of assets is the fundamental of management.
Uses 'zaisan jōtai' (asset status/state).
知的財産権の侵害は、法的に厳しく罰せられる可能性がある。
Infringement of intellectual property rights can potentially be severely punished by law.
Uses 'shingai' (infringement) and 'basse rareru' (be punished).
彼は莫大な財産を背景に、政界で強い影響力を行使している。
With his vast fortune as backing, he exerts strong influence in the political world.
Uses 'haikei ni' (with ... as background) and 'kōshi suru' (to exert).
このプロジェクトで得たノウハウは、我が社の無形財産である。
The know-how gained from this project is our company's intangible asset.
Uses 'mukei zaisan' (intangible asset).
財産目録を作成し、相続の手続きを円滑に進める必要がある。
It is necessary to create an inventory of assets and proceed smoothly with the inheritance procedures.
Uses 'zaisan mokuroku' (inventory of assets).
人類の共同財産である深海資源の探査が加速している。
Exploration of deep-sea resources, which are the common heritage of mankind, is accelerating.
Uses 'kyōdō zaisan' (common property/heritage).
彼は財産を分散投資することで、リスクの軽減を図っている。
He is attempting to reduce risk by diversifying his asset investments.
Uses 'bunsan tōshi' (diversified investment).
その企業は、不透明な財産処理が原因で社会的信用を失った。
The company lost social credibility due to opaque asset handling.
Uses 'futōmei na' (opaque/not transparent).
彼は若くして巨万の財産を手に入れたが、その使い道に苦慮している。
He acquired a huge fortune at a young age, but he is struggling with how to use it.
Uses 'kyoman no zaisan' (huge fortune) and 'kuryo suru' (to struggle/to be pained).
財産法における所有権の概念は、近代法制度の根幹を成している。
The concept of ownership in property law forms the basis of modern legal systems.
Uses 'zaisan-hō' (property law) and 'konkan o nasu' (form the basis).
彼は自己の財産を、一個人の所有物としてではなく、次世代への預かり物と考えている。
He considers his property not as a personal possession, but as something held in trust for the next generation.
Uses 'azukarimono' (something entrusted) to express a philosophy.
デジタル遺産の取り扱いは、現代の財産管理における新たな課題である。
The handling of digital legacies is a new challenge in modern asset management.
Uses 'dejitaru isan' (digital legacy) and 'toriatsukai' (handling).
その貴族の没落は、放蕩による財産の散逸が原因であった。
The downfall of that aristocrat was caused by the dissipation of his fortune through debauchery.
Uses 'hōtō' (debauchery) and 'san-itsu' (dissipation/scattering).
信託制度を利用することで、財産の保全と円滑な承継が可能となる。
By utilizing a trust system, the preservation and smooth succession of assets become possible.
Uses 'shintaku' (trust) and 'hozen' (preservation).
彼は財産権の不可侵性を訴え、政府の収用計画に真っ向から反対した。
He appealed for the inviolability of property rights and directly opposed the government's expropriation plan.
Uses 'fukashin-sei' (inviolability) and 'shūyō' (expropriation).
古典文学は、我々が守り伝えるべき精神的財産である。
Classical literature is a spiritual asset that we must protect and pass on.
Uses 'seishinteki zaisan' (spiritual/mental asset).
財産の多寡にかかわらず、人間としての尊厳は等しく守られるべきだ。
Regardless of the amount of one's assets, human dignity should be protected equally.
Uses 'taka' (amount/quantity) and 'kakawarazu' (regardless of).
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— To sacrifice or give up all of one's fortune for a cause.
彼は財産を投げ打って慈善活動に専念した。
— Doing something (like marrying) specifically to get someone's money.
あの男は財産目当てで近づいてきた。
— Something that will be a valuable asset for one's whole life.
留学での経験は一生の財産だ。
— Life and property; the most basic things protected by law.
警察は国民の生命と財産を守る。
— To use up one's fortune through wasteful spending.
親の財産を食いつぶしてしまった。
— Intangible assets like knowledge, skill, or reputation.
信頼は会社にとって無形の財産だ。
— To hide assets, usually to avoid taxes or legal claims.
彼は差し押さえを逃れるために財産を隠した。
— The market or appraisal value of an asset.
駅に近いと財産価値が高い。
— Property rights; the legal right to own and use assets.
憲法で財産権が保障されている。
— Private property owned by an individual rather than the state.
私有財産制は資本主義の基本だ。
자주 혼동되는 단어
Shisan is more for accounting and business; Zaisan is more for personal and total wealth.
Isan is specifically property left after someone dies (inheritance).
Zaisei refers to the financial affairs of a government or organization, not personal property.
관용어 및 표현
— Health is wealth; health is more valuable than money.
無理をせず休みましょう。健康は富に勝る財産ですから。
Proverbial— To ruin one's family fortune (related to 'shindai', another word for property).
放蕩息子が身代を潰した。
Old-fashioned— Making a fortune without any effort (literally: millet sticking to wet hands).
投資で濡れ手で粟の財産を得た。
Idiomatic— Getting rich quick; making a fortune at a single stroke.
宝くじで一攫千金を狙って財産を注ぎ込む。
Common— When the money runs out, the relationship ends.
財産がなくなると友人も去った。金の切れ目が縁の切れ目だ。
Cynical— To make so much money that you can build a storehouse (to be very wealthy).
あの商売は大成功して、蔵を建てるほどの財産を築いた。
Traditional— To dedicate one's life and property to a place or cause.
この地に財産を移し、骨を埋める覚悟だ。
Formal— To work oneself to the bone to build up a fortune.
身を粉にして働いて、ようやく財産を築いた。
Common— Giving gold to a cat (giving something valuable to someone who doesn't appreciate it).
彼に高価な財産を譲っても、猫に小判だ。
Common— Even the judgment of hell depends on money (money talks).
財産があれば何でも解決できる。地獄の沙汰も金次第だ。
Sarcastic혼동하기 쉬운
Both translate to 'property' in English.
Fudōsan is specifically real estate (land/buildings). Zaisan is the total value of everything, including cash and intellectual rights.
不動産を売って、財産を現金化した。
Both refer to things you 'have'.
Mochimono are physical things you carry (bag, wallet). Zaisan is your wealth (house, savings).
忘れ物がないか、持ち物を確認してください。
Both mean wealth.
Tomi is an abstract state of being rich. Zaisan is the specific collection of assets you own.
彼は富を求めて都会へ出た。
Both refer to possessions.
Kazai is specifically household furniture and appliances. Zaisan is broader.
火災保険で家財を守る。
Both mean valuable things.
Takara is emotional and informal. Zaisan is formal and can be legal.
この写真は私の宝物です。
문장 패턴
[Person] は [Amount] の財産を持っている。
彼は多くの財産を持っている。
[Experience/Health] は [Person] にとっての財産だ。
健康は私にとっての財産だ。
[Person] は [Action] ことで財産を築いた。
彼は投資することで財産を築いた。
[Person] は財産を [Cause] で失った。
彼は財産をギャンブルで失った。
[Compound Noun] を守ることは [Adjective] だ。
知的財産を守ることは重要だ。
[Abstract Noun] こそが [Person] の真の財産である。
誠実さこそが彼の真の財産である。
財産の [Taka] にかかわらず、...
財産の多寡にかかわらず、協力し合うべきだ。
財産権の [Inviolability/Infringement] を [Verb]。
財産権の不可侵性を主張する。
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
Highly frequent in news, legal, and formal contexts. Moderately frequent in everyday conversation when discussing life values.
-
Using 'zaisan' for a gym bag.
→
mochimono
Zaisan implies significant value or total wealth. A gym bag is just a 'mochimono' (possession/belonging).
-
Saying 'zaisan o taberu' for wasting money.
→
zaisan o kuitsubusu
The idiom for wasting a fortune is 'kuitsubusu' (to eat up/consume), not just 'taberu'.
-
Confusing 'zaisan' with 'zaisei'.
→
zaisan
Zaisei is public finance/budget. Zaisan is property/assets. Don't say 'The country's zaisan is in deficit'.
-
Using 'zaisan' for 'land' in a physical sense.
→
tochi
If you are pointing at the ground, say 'tochi' (land). 'Zaisan' is the abstract value of that land.
-
Assuming 'zaisan' only means money.
→
zaisan
Remember it includes intangible assets like patents (chiteki zaisan) and health (kenkō).
팁
Use 'no' for possession
Always use '[Person] no zaisan' to say 'someone's property'. It's a standard noun-noun relationship in Japanese.
Metaphorical use
Don't be afraid to use 'zaisan' for things like 'friendship' or 'knowledge'. It makes your Japanese sound more sophisticated and sincere.
Formal vs Informal
Use 'zaisan' in formal situations and 'takara' in casual ones. Using 'zaisan' with close friends might make you sound a bit like a lawyer.
Inheritance importance
Understanding 'zaisan' helps you understand Japanese family dynamics, where passing down assets is a key part of ancestral duty.
Kanji components
Remember the 'shell' radical in 'zai'. It links the word to the concept of money throughout history.
News keywords
When you see 'zaisan' in a headline, look for 'shingai' (infringement) or 'bun-yo' (division) nearby to understand the story.
Pitch accent
The high-to-low pitch (ZA-isan) is crucial. Practice saying it as if the word is falling down a small step.
Zai-San connection
Think of 'Zai' as the 'Wealth' and 'San' as the 'Production'. Produce wealth = 財産.
Zaisan vs Shisan
If it has sentimental value, use 'zaisan'. If it's just a number on a screen, 'shisan' is fine.
Common verbs
Pair it with 'kizuku' (build), 'mamoru' (protect), and 'ushinau' (lose) to cover 90% of its common uses.
암기하기
기억법
Think of 'ZAI' as the 'Size' of your wealth and 'SAN' as the 'Sun' shining on your fields. Your 'Zaisan' is the size of your sun-lit fields.
시각적 연상
Imagine a large Japanese 'kura' (storehouse) filled with gold coins (財) and baskets of harvested rice (産). This storehouse represents your total 財産.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to list three things you consider your 'zaisan' that aren't money. Write them down in Japanese using the pattern: [Thing] は私の財産です。
어원
The word is composed of two kanji: 財 (zai) and 産 (san). It originated from classical Chinese but was fully integrated into Japanese legal and social systems centuries ago.
원래 의미: Originally, 財 referred to money or valuables, while 産 referred to what is produced or the land that produces it.
Sino-Japanese (Kango).문화적 맥락
Be careful when asking about someone's 財産 directly; it is considered very private and potentially rude, much like asking 'How much money do you have?' in English.
In English, 'property' often refers to land. In Japanese, 財産 is more frequently used for the total value of everything one owns, similar to 'net worth' but less clinical.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Bank or Financial Institution
- 財産状況の確認
- 財産目録の提出
- 預金も財産の一部です
- 財産運用のご相談
Legal / Inheritance
- 遺言による財産分与
- 財産権の主張
- 共有財産の分割
- 財産隠しの調査
News / Disasters
- 生命と財産を守る
- 莫大な財産的被害
- 財産をすべて失う
- 公的財産の損壊
Education / Personal Growth
- 知識は一生の財産
- 経験という財産
- 友人こそが財産だ
- 精神的な財産を築く
Business / Tech
- 知的財産部の設立
- 特許は重要な財産だ
- 無形財産の評価
- 財産権の侵害を訴える
대화 시작하기
"あなたの人生で一番大切にしている財産は何ですか? (What is the asset you value most in your life?)"
"「健康は最大の財産」という言葉についてどう思いますか? (What do you think about the saying 'Health is the greatest asset'?)"
"もし莫大な財産を手に入れたら、何に使いますか? (If you acquired a vast fortune, what would you use it for?)"
"日本での知的財産の保護について興味がありますか? (Are you interested in the protection of intellectual property in Japan?)"
"子供にどんな財産を残してあげたいですか? (What kind of 'assets' do you want to leave for your children?)"
일기 주제
今日、自分が持っている「お金以外の財産」について3つ書き出してみましょう。 (Write down three 'non-money assets' you have today.)
将来、どのような財産を築きたいか、そのために今何をしているか書いてください。 (Describe what kind of fortune/assets you want to build in the future and what you are doing now for that.)
「無形の財産」という言葉から何を連想しますか? (What do you associate with the term 'intangible assets'?)
あなたが今までで一番「財産を失った」と感じた経験は何ですか? (What was the experience where you felt you 'lost your assets' the most?)
自分の知識やスキルをどうやって社会の「共同財産」にできるか考えてみましょう。 (Think about how you can turn your knowledge and skills into the 'common heritage' of society.)
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Yes, but usually only metaphorically. For example, 'This piano is my asset.' In a literal financial sense, it usually refers to a collection of things or the total value of one's belongings.
Yes. 'Okanimochi' means 'a rich person'. 'Zaisan' is the noun for the wealth itself. You would use 'zaisan' in a bank, but you might call someone an 'okanimochi' to your friends.
It means 'Intellectual Property'. It refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols used in commerce.
You say 'shiyū zaisan' (私有財産). This is used in legal or political discussions about ownership rights.
Legally, pets are considered 'zaisan' in Japan, but emotionally, people would call them 'kazoku' (family) or 'takara' (treasure). Using 'zaisan' for a pet sounds very cold.
In a bank, 'shisan' (assets) is the technical term for your accounts and investments. 'Zaisan' might be used when discussing your total net worth including property you own elsewhere.
You use the phrase 'zaisan o kizuku' (財産を築く). It implies a slow and steady process of building wealth over time.
Yes, the term 'zaisan bun-yo' (財産分与) is the standard legal term for the division of assets when a couple divorces.
Yes, especially in the metaphorical sense of 'spirit' or 'culture' being an asset passed down to the next generation.
Yes, it typically appears at the N3 or N2 level, which corresponds to the B1/B2 CEFR levels.
셀프 테스트 192 질문
Write a sentence using 'zaisan' to describe your health.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He built a vast fortune.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'I want to protect my family's assets.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Intellectual property is important.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about inheriting property from parents.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'I lost all my property in the fire.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'Experience is a lifelong asset.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He is a wealthy man.' (using zaisan)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'The division of assets is difficult.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Protecting life and property.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'This house is my only asset.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He sacrificed his fortune for the poor.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'Manage your assets carefully.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Public property belongs to everyone.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'Knowledge is an asset that cannot be stolen.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The inventory of assets was completed.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'She hid her assets to avoid taxes.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Common heritage of mankind.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write: 'Friends are my greatest asset.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The asset value of the land decreased.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Talk about something you consider your 'zaisan' other than money.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain the phrase 'Health is the greatest asset' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe what you would do if you had a 'vast fortune'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss the importance of protecting intellectual property.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Tell a story about someone who built their fortune from scratch.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain why 'friends' can be considered 'zaisan'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Roleplay: You are at a bank discussing your 'zaisan situation'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a 'cultural asset' in your home country.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss the pros and cons of inheriting a large 'zaisan'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Give a short speech about 'lifelong assets' at a graduation.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain 'public property' to a child.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Debate: Is it okay to marry someone for their 'zaisan'?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss how to protect your 'zaisan' from disasters.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe the 'asset value' of your neighborhood.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Talk about a time you 'lost property' and how you felt.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain 'intangible assets' with examples.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss the duty of the government regarding 'life and property'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Talk about 'common heritage' like the ocean or moon.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss the concept of 'zaisan' in traditional Japanese families.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain the difference between 'zaisan' and 'shisan'.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen to a news report about a fire. What was lost besides lives?
Listen to a conversation between a couple. What are they dividing?
Listen to a graduation speech. What does the speaker call 'lifelong assets'?
Listen to a business meeting. What 'property' are they protecting?
Listen to a story about a king. What did he build?
Listen to a lawyer. What document are they creating?
Listen to a person talking about their health. What do they call it?
Listen to a gossip. Why did the man marry the woman?
Listen to a tax official. What tax is being discussed?
Listen to a history teacher. What is the temple called?
Listen to a person who lost everything. How did it happen?
Listen to an investor. What is he doing with his assets?
Listen to a child. Who does the park belong to?
Listen to a philosopher. What is 'intangible'?
Listen to a police announcement. What are they protecting?
/ 192 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
財産 (zaisan) is the standard Japanese word for 'property' or 'assets'. While it has serious legal and financial applications, it is also frequently used to describe life's most valuable non-material treasures. Example: 彼は莫大な財産を築いた (He built up a vast fortune).
- A formal noun meaning 'property' or 'assets', covering everything from cash and houses to intellectual property and personal experiences.
- Commonly used in legal contexts like inheritance (遺産) and property division (財産分与), as well as in business and news reports.
- Can be used metaphorically to describe non-material things of high value, such as 'health is an asset' or 'friends are assets'.
- Distinguished from 'shisan' (assets) by its more personal and inclusive nuance, often referring to a family's total accumulated wealth.
Use 'no' for possession
Always use '[Person] no zaisan' to say 'someone's property'. It's a standard noun-noun relationship in Japanese.
Metaphorical use
Don't be afraid to use 'zaisan' for things like 'friendship' or 'knowledge'. It makes your Japanese sound more sophisticated and sincere.
Formal vs Informal
Use 'zaisan' in formal situations and 'takara' in casual ones. Using 'zaisan' with close friends might make you sound a bit like a lawyer.
Inheritance importance
Understanding 'zaisan' helps you understand Japanese family dynamics, where passing down assets is a key part of ancestral duty.
관련 콘텐츠
이 단어를 다른 언어로
family 관련 단어
還暦
B1환갑은 만 60세 생일을 축하하는 일본의 전통 행사입니다.
〜くらい
B1이 단어는 '정도' 또는 '만큼'을 의미하며, 양이나 시간을 어림하거나 어떤 정도에 이르렀음을 나타낼 때 사용됩니다.
認め合う
B1서로 인정하다; 서로의 가치를 알아주다.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2얼굴은 알지만 개인적으로는 모르는 사람. 얼굴은 알지만 친밀한 관계가 아닌 사람.
甘える
B1응석 부리다, 아첨하다; 가까운 관계에서 타인의 친절과 너그러움에 의지하여 응석받이 아이처럼 행동하는 것을 의미합니다.
活発な
B1활발한; 활기찬. '활발한 성격' (活発な性格), '활발한 토론' (活発な議論).
思春期
B1사춘기; 어린아이에서 어른으로 변하는 시기.
養子
B1양자 결연을 통해 법적인 부모 자식 관계를 맺은 아이.
養親
B2양부모. 양자 결연을 통해 법적으로 부모가 된 사람을 말합니다.