In 15 Seconds
- To bring about major, game-changing improvements or new ideas.
- Used for professional contexts, technology, or significant life transformations.
- Implies breaking away from old traditions to create something better.
Meaning
This phrase means to bring about a major, positive change or to introduce something completely new to an existing system. It is like hitting the 'refresh' button on a grand scale to make things better and more modern.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business meeting about company strategy
わが社は、古いビジネスモデルを捨てて革新をする必要があります。
Our company needs to discard the old business model and innovate.
Discussing a new tech startup's impact
そのスタートアップは、教育業界で大きな革新をしました。
That startup made a major innovation in the education industry.
Texting a friend about a radical new lifestyle choice
今年の目標は、自分の生活スタイルを革新することだよ！
My goal for this year is to innovate my lifestyle!
Cultural Background
The concept of 'kaizen' (continuous improvement) is often contrasted with 'kakushin' (innovation).
Use with 'motarasu'
Pairing {革新|かくしん} with {もたらす|motarasu} (to bring about) makes you sound like a pro.
In 15 Seconds
- To bring about major, game-changing improvements or new ideas.
- Used for professional contexts, technology, or significant life transformations.
- Implies breaking away from old traditions to create something better.
What It Means
革新をする is all about making a big leap forward. It is not just a tiny fix or a small update. It means you are breaking old patterns to create something better. Think of it as a total transformation of an idea or system. It carries a sense of progress and looking toward the future. It is a powerful way to say you are changing the game.
How To Use It
You use this phrase when you are talking about serious improvements. It is a combination of the noun 革新 (innovation) and the verb する (to do). You can use it as a goal or a description of an action. It works well in professional settings or when discussing big life changes. Just remember that it implies a departure from the 'old way' of doing things. It sounds proactive and very determined.
When To Use It
This is a great phrase for business meetings or job interviews. Use it when you want to impress someone with your forward-thinking attitude. It is also perfect for discussing technology, social issues, or education. If you are pitching a revolutionary idea, this is your go-to expression. It signals that you are not afraid of change. It is for those 'lightbulb' moments that actually lead to action.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for small, everyday tweaks or minor habits. If you just bought a new brand of milk, that is not 革新. If you changed your phone wallpaper, do not use this phrase. It will sound way too dramatic and a bit silly. Save it for things that truly matter and have a lasting impact. Using it for trivial things makes the word lose its power.
Cultural Background
Japan is famous for 改善 (Kaizen), which means continuous small improvements. However, 革新 is the bolder, more disruptive cousin of Kaizen. In a culture that deeply respects tradition, 革新 represents a brave step into the unknown. It became very popular during Japan's rapid economic growth periods. It reflects the national pride in being a global leader in technology. It is about balancing the old with the brand new.
Common Variations
You will often see 技術革新 (gijutsu kakushin), which specifically means technological innovation. Another common one is 革新的な (kakushinteki na), which is the adjective form meaning 'innovative.' You might also hear 自己革新 (jiko kakushin) if someone is talking about reinventing themselves. These variations help you pinpoint exactly what kind of change is happening. They all share that core feeling of exciting, major progress.
Usage Notes
This phrase is primarily formal and neutral. It is best suited for professional environments, academic writing, or serious discussions about progress and change.
Use with 'motarasu'
Pairing {革新|かくしん} with {もたらす|motarasu} (to bring about) makes you sound like a pro.
Examples
6わが社は、古いビジネスモデルを捨てて革新をする必要があります。
Our company needs to discard the old business model and innovate.
Here, it emphasizes a necessary and radical shift in direction.
そのスタートアップは、教育業界で大きな革新をしました。
That startup made a major innovation in the education industry.
Used to describe a completed, impactful action.
今年の目標は、自分の生活スタイルを革新することだよ！
My goal for this year is to innovate my lifestyle!
A slightly dramatic but enthusiastic way to talk about self-improvement.
この焦げたトーストは、朝食の革新をした結果です。
This burnt toast is the result of innovating breakfast.
Using a high-level word for a silly failure creates humor.
私たちは社会の仕組みを革新するために立ち上がりました。
We stood up to innovate the structure of society.
Conveys passion and a strong desire for systemic change.
彼は芸術の世界で常に革新をしてきました。
He has always innovated in the world of art.
Describes a consistent history of being a pioneer.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct verb.
会社は古いシステムを____する必要がある。
Innovation is needed for systems, not eating or sleeping.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises会社は古いシステムを____する必要がある。
Innovation is needed for systems, not eating or sleeping.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it's too formal. Use 'moyougae' (redecorating) instead.
Related Phrases
{技術革新|ぎじゅつかくしん}
specialized formTechnological innovation
