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B1 noun #10,000 most common 9 min read

巻末

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 巻末 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 巻末 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn Japanese. You might not use the word '巻末' (kanmatsu) very often in your own speaking, but you might see it in your textbook. A1 learners usually learn '終わり' (owari) for 'end' first. However, '巻末' is a special word for books. Think of it like this: if you have a Japanese textbook, and you want to find the word list at the very back, that area is called '巻末.' The word is made of two parts: '巻' (kan) which means 'book' or 'volume,' and '末' (matsu) which means 'end.' So it simply means 'the end of the book.' You will usually see it written as '巻末に' (kanmatsu ni), which means 'at the end of the book.' It is a very useful word to recognize when your teacher tells you to look at the back of your book for answers or vocabulary. Just remember: it is only for books, not for the end of the day or the end of a movie!

For A2 learners, '巻末' (kanmatsu) becomes a useful functional word. As you start using more complex textbooks and reading materials, you will notice that important information like grammar summaries, kanji lists, and answer keys are located at the '巻末.' You should understand that this is a formal noun. You will often see it used with the particle 'の' (no) to describe where something is, such as '教科書の巻末' (kyoukasho no kanmatsu - the end of the textbook). At this level, you should start distinguishing it from '最後' (saigo). While 'saigo' can be used for anything (the last person in line, the last piece of cake), '巻末' is strictly for the physical or digital pages at the end of a publication. Learning this word helps you follow classroom instructions more easily and navigate Japanese study materials like a pro. It is a 'signpost' word that helps you find your way around a book.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use '巻末' (kanmatsu) naturally in academic or professional discussions about texts. You should be comfortable with common phrases like '巻末資料' (kanmatsu shiryou - end-of-book materials) and '巻末索引' (kanmatsu sakuin - end-of-book index). You understand that '巻末' is the formal and appropriate term to use when writing a report or giving a presentation about a document. For example, '詳細は巻末の表を参照してください' (Please refer to the table at the end of the book). You should also be aware of its antonym, '巻頭' (kantou - the beginning of a book). B1 learners should notice that '巻末' is a 'Sino-Japanese' word (kango), which gives it a more formal and objective tone compared to native Japanese words like 'おわり' (owari). Using '巻末' correctly shows that you have reached an intermediate level of literacy and can handle formal Japanese book structures.

B2 learners should have a nuanced understanding of '巻末' (kanmatsu) and its role in the structure of Japanese publications. You should recognize that '巻末' is not just the last page, but an entire section dedicated to supplementary information. At this level, you might encounter the word in literary criticism or publishing news. You should be able to distinguish '巻末' from related terms like '付録' (furoku - appendix) and 'あとがき' (atogaki - afterword), knowing that '巻末' is the location where these items are found. You should also be comfortable using '巻末' in complex sentences with various particles and structures, such as '巻末に付された注釈' (the annotations attached to the end of the book). Your understanding of the kanji '巻' (volume/scroll) and '末' (end) should help you infer the meaning of similar technical terms. You are also expected to avoid common mistakes, such as using '巻末' for temporal ends like '月末' (end of the month).

At the C1 level, your grasp of '巻末' (kanmatsu) should be near-native. You understand its specific usage in different genres, from academic journals to manga volumes. You are aware of the subtle difference between '巻末' and '末尾' (matsubi), where the latter might refer to the tail end of a specific string or sentence within a document. You can use '巻末' in high-level writing, such as a thesis or a professional manuscript, to direct readers with precision. For instance, you might discuss the '巻末における参考文献の配置' (the arrangement of references at the end of the volume). You also understand the cultural history of the word, rooted in the transition from scrolls (maki-mono) to bound books, and how this history influences modern terminology. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use '巻末' as part of compound nouns and formal expressions without hesitation, recognizing it as an essential component of professional and scholarly Japanese.

For C2 learners, '巻末' (kanmatsu) is a fundamental term used with absolute precision. You can discuss the bibliographical nuances of a '巻末' section, including the '奥付' (colophon) and its legal and historical significance in Japanese publishing. You are capable of critiquing the layout of a book, perhaps noting that the '巻末の資料が不十分である' (the materials at the end of the book are insufficient). You use the word effortlessly in both spoken and written discourse, maintaining the appropriate formal register. Furthermore, you can identify and explain the stylistic choice of placing certain content at the '巻末' versus the '巻頭' (beginning) or within the main text. Your understanding extends to the digital realm, where you can discuss the '巻末' of electronic documents and how user interface design handles traditional 'back matter' content. At this level, '巻末' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a tool for precise structural analysis of any written work.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

巻末 in 30 Seconds

巻末 (kanmatsu) means 'end of the book.'
It is a formal noun used for publications.
Commonly used to locate indices, glossaries, and appendices.
Contrast with 巻頭 (kantou), the beginning of a book.

The Japanese word 巻末 (kanmatsu) is a formal noun specifically used to describe the end or final section of a book, publication, or document. To understand its nuance, one must look at the individual kanji characters that form the word. The first character, 巻 (kan), historically refers to a scroll or a volume, dating back to when books were primarily rolled documents. The second character, 末 (matsu), signifies the end, extremity, or the tip of something. Together, they literally translate to the 'end of the scroll' or 'end of the volume.' In contemporary Japanese, it is the standard term used to refer to the 'back matter' of a book, including the index, bibliography, appendices, and afterwords.

Literary Context: In literary circles, 巻末 is used to denote the physical placement of supplemental information. Unlike '終わり' (owari), which means a general 'end' or 'finish,' 巻末 specifically targets the structural location within a printed or digital work.

People use this word most frequently in educational, academic, and professional settings. If a teacher tells a student to look up a word in the glossary, they will often say it is located at the kanmatsu. Similarly, in academic publishing, references and citations are strictly placed at the kanmatsu. It is not a word you would typically use for the end of a movie, a song, or a physical journey; it is strictly bound to the world of text and volumes.

詳細は、この本の巻末にある付録を参照してください。(Please refer to the appendix at the end of this book for details.)

Furthermore, the term captures the organized nature of Japanese publishing. In many Japanese books, especially those printed vertically, the 'end' might seem like the 'front' to a Western reader. However, kanmatsu always refers to the logical conclusion of the content, regardless of the binding direction. It is a vital term for anyone navigating Japanese libraries, bookstores, or technical manuals.

In the digital age, the term has transitioned smoothly to e-books and PDF documents. Even though there are no physical pages to flip, the final pages of a digital file are still referred to as the kanmatsu. It implies a structural boundary, serving as a container for meta-information about the primary text. Understanding this word is essential for CEFR B1 learners as it marks a transition from general vocabulary to specialized, functional vocabulary used in higher education and professional environments.

Etymological Root: The use of 巻 (scroll) reminds us that even modern tablets and hardcovers are descendants of the ancient scroll system. The 'end' was the innermost part of the roll.

辞書の巻末には、不規則動詞の一覧表が付いています。(At the end of the dictionary, there is a list of irregular verbs.)

Finally, it is worth noting the contrast with 巻頭 (kantou), which means the beginning of a book. These two words form a pair that defines the boundaries of a literary work. While kantou often contains celebratory photos or introductions, kanmatsu is utilitarian, housing the data and indices that make a book a useful tool for reference.

Using 巻末 (kanmatsu) correctly requires an understanding of how nouns function as locational markers in Japanese. It is most frequently used with the particle の (no) to modify another noun, or with locational particles like に (ni) or で (de) to indicate where something is found or where an action occurs.

Common Structure 1: [Noun] + の + 巻末: This structure identifies the specific publication. For example, '雑誌の巻末' (zasshi no kanmatsu) means 'the end of the magazine.'

テキストの巻末にある練習問題を解いてください。(Please solve the practice problems located at the end of the textbook.)

When discussing existence, we use に (ni). If you are describing an action that takes place at the end of the book, such as writing a note, you would use で (de). For instance, '巻末で詳しく説明します' (I will explain in detail at the end of the book). This distinction is crucial for natural-sounding Japanese.

In professional writing, you might see 巻末資料 (kanmatsu shiryou), which means 'supplementary materials at the end of the book.' This compound noun is very common in business reports and academic theses. It streamlines the sentence by removing the need for a particle between 'kanmatsu' and 'shiryou.'

Common Structure 2: 巻末 + [Functional Noun]: Examples: 巻末索引 (kanmatsu sakuin - end-of-book index), 巻末解説 (kanmatsu kaisetsu - end-of-book commentary).

論文の巻末に参考文献のリストを載せる必要があります。(It is necessary to include a list of references at the end of the paper.)

For learners, a common mistake is using '巻末' to refer to the end of a period of time, like the end of the month. For that, you must use '月末' (getsumatsu). Remember that '巻' (kan) specifically refers to the physical or digital volume of a book. If it doesn't have pages, you probably shouldn't use 'kanmatsu.'

この小説の巻末には、作者のあとがきが掲載されています。(The author's afterword is published at the end of this novel.)

In summary, treat '巻末' as a specific spatial coordinate within a document. It is a formal, precise, and highly functional word that helps you navigate and organize information effectively in a Japanese context.

While you might not hear 巻末 (kanmatsu) in a casual conversation at a bar, it is omnipresent in Japanese daily life if you are a student, a researcher, or an avid reader. The most common place to hear it is in a classroom setting.

In the Classroom: Teachers frequently use this word when directing students to resources. '巻末の地図を見てください' (Look at the map at the end of the book) is a standard instruction.

You will also hear this word in bookstores and libraries. If you ask a librarian where the index for a multi-volume set is, they might reply that it is located in the '巻末' of the final volume. It is part of the professional vocabulary of the publishing industry and library sciences.

「答えは巻末にありますか？」「はい、解答集は巻末に綴じ込まれています。」("Are the answers at the end of the book?" "Yes, the answer key is bound into the end.")

In the business world, during presentations or meetings involving thick reports, a presenter might say, '詳細は巻末の資料をご参照ください' (Please refer to the materials at the end for details). This allows the speaker to keep the main presentation concise while providing the necessary data for those who want to dig deeper.

Even in the world of manga, '巻末' is a term fans know well. Many manga volumes include '巻末おまけ' (kanmatsu omake) – extra bonus content, sketches, or author notes at the very end of the volume. Fans often flip straight to the '巻末' to see these extras before even reading the main chapters.

Audiobooks and Podcasts: In Japanese audiobooks, the narrator may announce, '巻末の注釈を読み上げます' (I will now read the end-of-book annotations), signaling a transition from the story to the supplementary content.

雑誌の巻末にあるアンケートハガキを送ると、抽選でプレゼントが当たります。(If you send the survey postcard at the end of the magazine, you might win a prize in the lottery.)

Essentially, wherever there is a book or a formal document, '巻末' is the word used to navigate its final pages. It conveys a sense of structure and completeness that '終わり' simply lacks in a professional or literary context.

The most frequent mistake learners make with 巻末 (kanmatsu) is confusing it with other words that mean 'end.' Because English often uses the word 'end' for many different scenarios (end of the book, end of the road, end of the month), learners tend to over-apply 'kanmatsu' to non-book contexts.

Mistake 1: Using it for Time: You cannot say '月の巻末' (tsuki no kanmatsu) for 'end of the month.' The correct term is 月末 (getsumatsu). Similarly, 'end of the year' is 年末 (nenmatsu).

Another common error is using it for the end of a physical location that is not a book. For example, if you are at the end of a street or the end of a line, you should use 突き当たり (tsukiatari) or 最後尾 (saikoubi). Using 'kanmatsu' in these cases would be nonsensical to a native speaker.

❌ 道の巻末に公園があります。
✅ 道の突き当たりに公園があります。(There is a park at the end of the road.)

A third mistake involves the particle usage. Learners sometimes treat '巻末' as an adjective and try to say '巻末な資料' (kanmatsu-na shiryou). This is incorrect because '巻末' is a noun. You must use the particle の (no) to link it to another noun: '巻末の資料' (kanmatsu no shiryou).

Finally, some learners confuse '巻末' with 結末 (ketsumatsu). While both involve the 'end,' ketsumatsu refers to the 'conclusion' or 'outcome' of a story's plot. '巻末' is where the physical book ends; 'ketsumatsu' is how the story resolves. You can read the 'ketsumatsu' (ending) of a story near the '巻末' (end of the book).

Mistake 2: Confusing 'Kanmatsu' with 'Ketsumatsu': 'Kanmatsu' is the physical location. 'Ketsumatsu' is the narrative conclusion. Don't mix them up!

❌ この映画の巻末は悲しい。
✅ この映画の結末は悲しい。(The ending of this movie is sad.)

Japanese has several words that translate to 'end' or 'back,' but they are not interchangeable with 巻末 (kanmatsu). Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the most natural word for your specific situation.

巻末 (Kanmatsu) vs. 最後 (Saigo): 最後 is a general word for 'last' or 'final.' It can refer to time, order, or space. 巻末 is specific to books. You can say '本の最後' (hon no saigo), but '巻末' sounds much more professional and precise.

Another related term is あとがき (Atogaki). While '巻末' refers to the location, 'あとがき' refers to the specific content—the afterword or postscript written by the author. An 'atogaki' is usually found at the 'kanmatsu.'

巻末には索引だけでなく、著者のあとがきも含まれています。(The end of the book includes not only an index but also the author's afterword.)

In academic contexts, you might see 末尾 (Matsubi). This means 'the very end' of a document or a string of text. While 'kanmatsu' refers to the end of a whole book/volume, 'matsubi' can refer to the end of a single sentence or a specific paragraph. 'Matsubi' is even more focused on the terminal point of the text itself.

巻末 (Kanmatsu) vs. 付録 (Furoku): 付録 means 'appendix' or 'supplement.' Just like 'atogaki,' this is the content. The 'furoku' is typically placed in the 'kanmatsu.'

Finally, consider 奥付 (Okuzuke). This is a very specific term for the colophon—the page at the very end of a Japanese book that lists the publication date, author, publisher, and copyright information. The 'okuzuke' is always found at the 'kanmatsu,' but it is a specific technical term for that single page.

発行日を確認するために、巻末の奥付を見ました。(I looked at the colophon at the end of the book to check the publication date.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Because Japanese books were historically scrolls, many words related to books still use the 'kan' (scroll) character, including 'kan' as a counter for volumes of manga.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kænˈmæt.suː/

US /kɑːnˈmɑːt.suː/

The stress in Japanese is relatively flat (Heiban), but 'ma' might have a slight pitch drop.

Rhymes With

年末 (nenmatsu) 月末 (getsumatsu) 期末 (kimatsu) 結末 (ketsumatsu) 週末 (shuumatsu) 始末 (shimatsu) 粗末 (somatsu) 粉末 (funmatsu)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 'u' too strongly (it should be almost silent: kan-mats).
Confusing the 'n' in 'kan' with an 'm' sound.
Misplacing the pitch accent on the first syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji are common but require intermediate knowledge.

Writing 4/5

The kanji '巻' has several strokes and is easy to misspell.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward.

Listening 2/5

Clear phonetic structure, but can be confused with other '-matsu' words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

本 (hon) 終わり (owari) ページ (peeji) 索引 (sakuin) 資料 (shiryou)

Learn Next

巻頭 (kantou) 奥付 (okuzuke) 参考文献 (sankou bunken) 序文 (jobun) 目次 (mokuji)

Advanced

落丁 (rakuchou - missing pages) 乱丁 (ranchou - binding error) 跋文 (batsubun - postface) 蔵書 (zousho - book collection) 校正 (kousei - proofreading)

Grammar to Know

N1 + の + N2 (Noun Modification)

本の巻末 (The book's end)

Location Particle 'に' with Existence Verbs

巻末に索引があります。(There is an index at the end.)

Compound Noun Formation

巻末資料 (End-of-book materials)

Passive Voice for Publication

巻末に掲載されている (Is published at the end)

Directional Particle 'まで'

巻末まで読む (Read until the end)

Examples by Level

本の巻末を見てください。

Please look at the end of the book.

Uses the particle 'を' to indicate the object of the verb '見る'.

答えは巻末にあります。

The answers are at the end of the book.

Uses 'に' to show the location of existence (あります).

巻末の言葉を読みます。

I will read the words at the end of the book.

Uses 'の' to modify '言葉' with '巻末'.

この本の巻末はどこですか？

Where is the end of this book?

A simple question using 'はどこですか'.

巻末に名前を書きました。

I wrote my name at the end of the book.

Uses 'に' to show the target of the action '書く'.

巻末は500ページです。

The end of the book is page 500.

Equates '巻末' with a specific page number.

辞書の巻末を使います。

I use the end of the dictionary.

Uses 'を' with the verb '使う'.

教科書の巻末はきれいです。

The end of the textbook is clean.

A simple adjective sentence.

単語リストは巻末に載っています。

The word list is listed at the end of the book.

Uses 'に載っている' to mean 'is listed/published in'.

巻末の索引で調べてください。

Please look it up in the index at the end of the book.

Uses 'で' to indicate the means or location of the search.

雑誌の巻末には広告が多いです。

There are many advertisements at the end of the magazine.

Uses 'には' to emphasize the location.

詳しい使い方は巻末にあります。

Detailed instructions are at the end of the book.

Uses '詳しい' (detailed) to modify '使い方'.

巻末のページをコピーしました。

I copied the pages at the end of the book.

Uses '巻末のページ' as a compound noun phrase.

この資料の巻末を確認してください。

Please check the end of this document.

Uses 'を' with the verb '確認する'.

巻末に面白いおまけがあります。

There is a funny bonus at the end of the book.

Uses 'おまけ' (bonus/extra).

巻末の地図はとても役に立ちます。

The map at the end of the book is very useful.

Uses '役に立つ' (to be useful).

巻末の参考文献リストを確認した。

I checked the bibliography list at the end of the book.

Uses the compound '参考文献リスト'.

解答は巻末に綴じ込まれています。

The answers are bound into the end of the book.

Uses the passive verb '綴じ込まれている'.

巻末資料として、年表を付けました。

I attached a timeline as end-of-book material.

Uses 'として' to mean 'as/in the capacity of'.

この論文の巻末には索引がない。

There is no index at the end of this paper.

Uses 'には' for contrast/emphasis.

著者のあとがきは巻末に掲載されている。

The author's afterword is published at the end of the book.

Uses '掲載されている' (is published/carried).

巻末のハガキで応募してください。

Please apply using the postcard at the end of the book.

Uses 'で' to indicate the means of application.

巻末に用語解説のセクションがある。

There is a glossary section at the end of the book.

Uses '用語解説' (glossary/term explanation).

巻末をチェックして出典を探した。

I checked the end of the book and looked for the source.

Uses 'て' form to link actions.

巻末に付された索引は非常に詳細だ。

The index attached to the end of the book is very detailed.

Uses '付された' (attached/added) to modify '索引'.

巻末の奥付で初版の日付を確認する。

Check the date of the first edition in the colophon at the end.

Uses '奥付' (colophon), a technical publishing term.

統計データは巻末の付録にまとめられている。

Statistical data is summarized in the appendix at the end.

Uses 'まとめられている' (is summarized).

巻末まで読み進めると、意外な事実が判明した。

Reading through to the end of the book, a surprising fact came to light.

Uses 'まで読み進める' (to read through until).

巻末の解説文は、著名な評論家によって書かれた。

The commentary at the end was written by a famous critic.

Uses 'によって' to indicate the agent in a passive sentence.

この学術書の巻末には膨大な注釈がある。

There are vast annotations at the end of this academic book.

Uses '膨大な' (vast/enormous).

巻末のアンケートにご協力をお願いします。

We ask for your cooperation with the survey at the end.

A formal request using 'ご協力をお願いします'.

索引が巻末にないため、検索に苦労した。

Because there was no index at the end, I struggled to search.

Uses 'ため' to indicate reason/cause.

巻末資料の不備が、論文の評価に影響した。

Deficiencies in the end-of-book materials affected the paper's evaluation.

Uses '不備' (deficiency/incompleteness).

巻末に収録されている書評は非常に鋭い。

The book review included at the end is very sharp.

Uses '収録されている' (is recorded/included).

巻末の索引と本文のページ数が一致していない。

The index at the end and the page numbers in the text do not match.

Uses '一致していない' (do not match/align).

巻末の付録こそが、この本の最大の価値である。

It is precisely the appendix at the end that is this book's greatest value.

Uses 'こそ' for strong emphasis.

巻末における情報の整理の仕方が独創的だ。

The way information is organized at the end of the book is original.

Uses 'における' as a formal version of 'に'.

巻末の注釈を読み飛ばすと、著者の意図を誤解する恐れがある。

If you skip the annotations at the end, there is a risk of misunderstanding the author's intent.

Uses '恐れがある' (there is a fear/risk that).

巻末の広告ページは、当時の社会情勢を反映している。

The advertising pages at the end reflect the social conditions of that time.

Uses '反映している' (reflecting).

巻末の奥付には、検印が省略されている場合もある。

In the colophon at the end, the inspection seal is sometimes omitted.

Uses '省略されている' (is omitted).

巻末に配された膨大な参考文献は、著者の該博な知識を物語っている。

The vast bibliography arranged at the end speaks volumes about the author's erudite knowledge.

Uses '配された' (arranged/placed) and '物語っている' (speaks to/tells of).

巻末の索引の精度が、事典としての実用性を左右する。

The accuracy of the index at the end determines the practical utility of an encyclopedia.

Uses '左右する' (to influence/determine).

デジタル版では、巻末の概念が物理的な制約から解放されている。

In digital versions, the concept of the 'end of the book' is liberated from physical constraints.

Uses '解放されている' (is liberated/freed).

巻末の解説は、本文の解釈に新たな地平を切り拓くものである。

The commentary at the end opens up new horizons for the interpretation of the main text.

Uses '切り拓く' (to clear/open up a path).

巻末の資料編だけで、一冊の本として成立するほどの密度がある。

The data section at the end alone has enough density to stand as a book in its own right.

Uses '成立するほど' (to the extent that it can stand/be established).

巻末の奥付を精査することで、偽版の可能性を排除した。

By scrutinizing the colophon at the end, we eliminated the possibility of a counterfeit edition.

Uses '精査する' (to scrutinize) and '排除した' (eliminated).

巻末に付随する地図や図版は、本文の理解を補完する不可欠な要素だ。

The maps and illustrations accompanying the end are indispensable elements that complement the understanding of the text.

Uses '付随する' (accompanying/attending) and '補完する' (complementing).

巻末の体裁を整えることは、出版物の品格を保つ上で極めて重要である。

Arranging the format of the end of the book is extremely important in maintaining the dignity of the publication.

Uses '体裁を整える' (to arrange the appearance/format).

Synonyms

末尾最後結末終末終わりブックエンド (incorrect usage note) 尻どん詰まり

Antonyms

巻頭冒頭序盤最初

Common Collocations

巻末に

巻末の

巻末索引

巻末資料

巻末付録

巻末解説

巻末おまけ

巻末に載る

巻末を飾る

巻末まで

Common Phrases

巻末の索引

— The index at the end of the book. Used to find specific topics quickly.

巻末の索引からページ番号を調べた。

巻末の参考文献

— The bibliography at the end. Essential for academic citations.

巻末の参考文献をリストアップする。

巻末おまけマンガ

— A bonus manga at the end of a volume. Common in tankobon releases.

巻末おまけマンガが楽しみだ。

巻末のハガキ

— The response postcard at the back of a magazine. Used for surveys or prizes.

巻末のハガキを切り取って送る。

巻末の一覧表

— A summary table or list at the end of a book.

巻末の一覧表で動詞の変化を確認する。

巻末の奥付

— The colophon page at the very end. Contains publisher and copyright info.

巻末の奥付で初版かどうか確認した。

巻末に付す

— To attach or append to the end of the book.

詳細なデータを巻末に付す。

巻末まで読む

— To read all the way to the very end of the volume.

一気に巻末まで読み進めた。

巻末の解説

— The commentary or analysis section at the end of a book.

巻末の解説を読んで理解が深まった。

巻末資料集

— A collection of reference materials at the end of a book.

巻末資料集には貴重な写真が多い。

Often Confused With

巻末 vs 月末 (getsumatsu)

End of the month. Learners confuse the 'kan' (book) with 'getsu' (month).

巻末 vs 結末 (ketsumatsu)

The conclusion of a story's plot. 'Kanmatsu' is the physical location.

巻末 vs 末尾 (matsubi)

The very end of a line or sentence. 'Kanmatsu' is for the whole book.

Idioms & Expressions

"巻末を飾る"

— To be the final featured piece in a publication, often implying an honor.

彼の短編が雑誌の巻末を飾った。

Literary

"巻を閉じる"

— To finish a series or a long story (related to 'kan').

ついにこの物語も巻を閉じる時が来た。

Literary

"末尾を汚す"

— A humble expression used by writers meaning 'to add my poor writing to the end.'

巻末の末尾を汚させていただきます。

Very Formal/Humble

"箸にも棒にもかからない"

— Useless (not directly 'kanmatsu', but used to describe bad 'furoku' content).

巻末の付録は箸にも棒にもかからない内容だった。

Idiomatic

"掉尾を飾る"

— To bring something to a glorious end (often used for events/books).

巻末の論文が全集の掉尾を飾った。

Formal

"有終の美を飾る"

— To finish something perfectly (can apply to the final volume/kanmatsu).

最終巻の巻末は有終の美を飾るにふさわしい内容だ。

General/Formal

"筆を置く"

— To stop writing (often happens at the kanmatsu).

巻末のあとがきを書き終え、筆を置いた。

Literary

"幕を閉じる"

— To bring the curtain down (used for the end of a story/book).

物語は巻末で静かに幕を閉じた。

General

"後を引く"

— To leave a lasting impression after finishing (often used after reading the kanmatsu).

巻末の結末が後を引く面白さだ。

General

"一巻の終わり"

— The end of the story; it's all over (idiom for failure or finality).

ここで見つかったら一巻の終わりだ。

General/Idiomatic

Easily Confused

巻末 vs 最後 (saigo)

Both mean 'last/end'.

Saigo is general; Kanmatsu is specifically for books. You can have the 'saigo' of a race, but not the 'kanmatsu' of a race.

マラソンの最後 (End of marathon) vs. 雑誌の巻末 (End of magazine).

巻末 vs 年末 (nenmatsu)

Both end in 'matsu'.

Nenmatsu is time (end of year); Kanmatsu is space (end of book).

年末のパーティー (Year-end party) vs. 巻末の索引 (End-of-book index).

巻末 vs 付録 (furoku)

Often found at the end of a book.

Furoku is the content (appendix); Kanmatsu is the location (end of book).

巻末に付録がある (There is an appendix at the end of the book).

巻末 vs 奥付 (okuzuke)

Both refer to the end of a book.

Okuzuke is the specific copyright page; Kanmatsu is the entire end section.

巻末の奥付を確認する (Check the colophon at the end of the book).

巻末 vs あとがき (atogaki)

Both refer to the end of a book.

Atogaki is the 'afterword' text; Kanmatsu is the physical location.

巻末にあとがきを書く (Write an afterword at the end of the book).

Sentence Patterns

[Book] の巻末を見る

本の巻末を見て。

巻末に [Noun] がある

巻末に地図がある。

巻末の [Noun] を参照する

巻末の表を参照する。

巻末に [Verb-Passive]

巻末に掲載されている。

巻末まで [Verb-Potential]

巻末まで読み進められる。

[Noun] が巻末に付される

索引が巻末に付される。

巻末における [Noun]

巻末における情報の整理。

巻末を [Verb-Scrutinize] ことで

巻末を精査することで。

Word Family

Nouns

巻 (kan - volume/scroll)

末 (matsu - end)

巻頭 (kantou - beginning of book)

全巻 (zenkan - whole set of books)

Verbs

巻く (maku - to roll/wind)

末える (sueru - archaic/rare related form)

付録 (furoku - appendix)

索引 (sakuin - index)

参考文献 (sankou bunken - references)

奥付 (okuzuke - colophon)

あとがき (atogaki - afterword)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in educational, professional, and literary contexts. Rare in casual daily errands.

Common Mistakes

Using 巻末 (kanmatsu) for the end of a movie. → 結末 (ketsumatsu) or 最後 (saigo)
Kanmatsu is strictly for physical or digital 'volumes' like books.
Saying 月の巻末 (tsuki no kanmatsu) for end of the month. → 月末 (getsumatsu)
Use 'getsu' for months, 'nen' for years, and 'kan' for books.
Treating 巻末 as an adjective: 巻末な資料. → 巻末の資料 (kanmatsu no shiryou)
Kanmatsu is a noun and requires the particle 'no' to modify other nouns.
Confusing 巻末 (location) with 付録 (content). → 巻末にある付録 (the appendix at the end)
Don't say 'the kanmatsu is interesting' if you mean the 'appendix' is interesting.
Writing the kanji 巻 with the wrong bottom radical. → 巻 (with the correct 'self/snake' variant)
It is often confused with similar looking kanji like 圏 or 券.

Tips

Textbook Navigation

Always check the 'kanmatsu' of a new Japanese textbook. It often contains hidden gems like verb conjugation charts or kanji stroke order guides.

Professionalism

Using 'kanmatsu' instead of 'owari' in a business report makes you sound much more competent and literate.

Manga Extras

Look for '巻末おまけ' in manga. They often contain character profiles and author secrets not found anywhere else.

Particle Choice

Use 'ni' for location (is there) and 'de' for action (doing something there). 'Kanmatsu ni sakuin ga aru' vs 'Kanmatsu de kotae wo miru'.

Antonym Pair

Learn 'kanmatsu' and 'kantou' together. They are the bookends of your literary vocabulary.

Physical Books

Japanese books open 'backwards' compared to English ones. The 'kanmatsu' will be on the left side for vertically printed books.

Writing Practice

Write a sentence using 'kanmatsu' every time you finish a chapter in your workbook.

PDF Search

When searching a PDF, the 'kanmatsu' is usually where the keywords for the 'sakuin' (index) are located.

Skimming

Skimming the 'kanmatsu' first can give you a good overview of the book's depth and sources.

JLPT Tip

In reading exams, if a question asks for a definition, check if there is a 'kanmatsu' style glossary note provided.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'CAN' (巻 - kan) of film at the 'MATS' (末 - matsu). When the film finishes, it hits the mats at the end.

Visual Association

Imagine a scroll being unrolled. The very last bit of paper at the center of the roll is the 'matsu' (end) of the 'kan' (scroll).

Word Web

Book Index Appendix Scroll End Library Reference Glossary

Challenge

Go to your bookshelf, pick a Japanese book, and find the 'kanmatsu'. Identify three things located there (e.g., index, price, date).

Word Origin

Derived from Middle Chinese characters. '巻' (scroll) and '末' (end). In ancient Japan and China, books were kept as scrolls. The 'matsu' (end) was the final part of the paper roll.

Original meaning: The physical end of a hand-rolled scroll.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities. It is a neutral, structural term.

In English, we usually say 'back of the book' or 'appendix.' 'Kanmatsu' is more formal, similar to 'back matter.'

The 'Atogaki' (afterword) at the kanmatsu of Haruki Murakami novels is often as famous as the stories themselves. Manga like 'One Piece' feature 'SBS' question-and-answer sections in the kanmatsu. Classic Japanese dictionaries are famous for their extensive 'kanmatsu' charts of archaic grammar.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Academic Writing

巻末に参考文献を記載する
巻末資料を参照
巻末注
巻末索引の作成

Education/Study

巻末の答え合わせ
巻末の単語帳
巻末の地図を見る
巻末ページをコピー

Manga/Magazines

巻末おまけマンガ
巻末アンケート
巻末の次号予告
巻末グラビア

Libraries/Bookstores

巻末の奥付を確認
巻末に汚れがある
巻末欠損
巻末まで検品

Business Reports

巻末のデータ集
巻末に補足する
巻末の一覧
巻末資料の送付

Conversation Starters

"この本の巻末にある索引、すごく使いやすいと思いませんか？"

"マンガを買うとき、いつも巻末のおまけから先に読んじゃうんです。"

"教科書の巻末に答えが載っていないとき、どうしていますか？"

"論文の巻末資料をまとめるのって、一番時間がかかりますよね。"

"巻末の広告を見て、昔の流行を知るのが好きなんです。"

Journal Prompts

今日読んだ本の巻末には、どんな面白い情報が載っていましたか？

もし自分が本を書くなら、巻末にどんな「おまけ」を付けたいですか？

巻末の索引や資料が不親切で困った経験について書いてください。

デジタル本と紙の本、巻末の使い勝手はどう違うと感じますか？

最近読んだ本の中で、一番印象的だった「巻末のあとがき」は何ですか？

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'kanmatsu' is specifically for books, magazines, or documents. For a movie, use '結末' (ketsumatsu) for the story ending or '最後' (saigo) for the final scene.

Yes, it is a formal word. In casual speech, people might just say '本のうしろ' (hon no ushiro), but in school or work, 'kanmatsu' is preferred.

The opposite is '巻頭' (kantou), which means the beginning of a book or the first few pages.

It consists of 'two hands' at the top, 'rice' in the middle, and 'snake/self' at the bottom. It's a complex character, so practice is key.

Yes, it is used for Kindle books, PDFs, and other digital publications to refer to the final pages.

Generally, no. For newspapers, people usually say '最終面' (saishuumen - final page) or '社会面' (shakaimen - often the back page).

No, it is strictly a noun. You cannot say 'kanmatsu-suru'.

Yes, it often appears in reading sections of the JLPT N3 and N2 levels.

Common items include the index (索引), bibliography (参考文献), appendix (付録), and colophon (奥付).

Yes! That is actually the original meaning of the word.