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A1 noun #3,192 most common 10 min read

及第

kyūdai Top 3,192

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 及第 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 及第 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should focus on the most basic meaning of 及第 (kyūdai): passing a test. Think of it as a fancy way to say 'I got a good enough score.' Even though this word is quite advanced, you might see it in textbooks when talking about school. The most important thing to remember is the phrase 及第点 (kyūdaiten), which means 'passing grade.' If a test is out of 100 and you need 60 to pass, 60 is the 及第点. You can use it simply like: 'I got a passing grade' (及第点を取りました). At this level, don't worry about the complex historical roots; just think of it as a school-related word for success. It is like the 'Pass' on a 'Pass/Fail' grade sheet. When you study kanji, notice that the first character 及 looks like a hand reaching out. This can help you remember that you are 'reaching' for the passing line. Even if you don't use it yourself, knowing it will help you understand formal announcements in a Japanese school setting. Remember, it's always used with the particle 'ni' when you pass something (試験に及第する). It’s a very 'polite' sounding word, so it's good for talking to teachers.

At the A2 level, you can start using 及第 (kyūdai) to describe a wider range of 'passing' situations. You might use it to talk about meeting a basic standard in your hobbies or daily tasks. For example, if you are learning to cook and you make a dish that tastes okay—not amazing, but edible—you could say it reached the 及第点 (passing mark). This adds a bit of nuance to your Japanese, showing that you understand the difference between 'perfect' and 'good enough.' You should also become comfortable with the suru-verb form 及第する. Try to use it in sentences like 'I want to pass the next exam' (次の試験に及第したいです). This level is also where you should distinguish 及第 from 合格. While 合格 is for winning a spot or getting a license, 及第 is more about the academic score itself. If you see '及第' on a document, it's a formal confirmation that you've met the requirements. It’s also useful for understanding feedback. If a teacher says your work is '及第点,' it means you passed, but there is still room for improvement. It’s a very objective word, focused on the rules and standards rather than emotions.

At the B1 level, you should understand the formal and slightly 'stiff' register of 及第 (kyūdai). You will encounter this word in more complex reading materials, such as newspaper articles about education or short stories. You should know that 及第 is often used in the negative form 及第点に達しない (to not reach the passing mark) to describe failure in a professional or academic sense. This is a common way to express that something was 'unsatisfactory' without using overly harsh language. You can also start using the word metaphorically in business contexts. For instance, in a meeting, you might describe a proposal as having 及第点, meaning it covers all the necessary bases but lacks a 'wow' factor. This shows a sophisticated grasp of Japanese business etiquette, where direct criticism is often avoided in favor of more measured terms. You should also be aware of the historical nuance; because the word comes from the ancient examination systems, it carries a sense of tradition and rigorous standards. Using 及第 instead of 合格 in a formal essay or speech can make your Japanese sound more academic and well-studied. It’s a bridge between everyday language and the higher-level vocabulary used in professional life.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 及第 (kyūdai) with precision, recognizing its specific nuances in contrast to other synonyms like 通過 (tsūka) or 基準達成 (kijun tassei). You should understand that 及第 specifically implies a qualitative or quantitative threshold that has been crossed. In literary analysis, you might see this word used to describe a character's growth or their ability to meet the challenges of their society. You should also be familiar with the term 不及第 (fukyūdai), which is the formal antonym meaning 'failure to pass.' While rarely used in spoken conversation, it appears in academic records and formal reports. At this level, you should also notice how 及第点 is used in critiques of art, film, or literature. A critic might write, 'The cinematography reached a passing grade (及第点), but the script was lacking.' This usage indicates a professional standard being applied. You should also be able to use the word in the passive voice or in complex grammatical structures, such as 及第が危ぶまれる (passing is in doubt). This level of vocabulary allows you to engage with more serious media and participate in discussions about education policy, professional standards, and historical systems in Japan.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 及第 (kyūdai) should include its deep etymological roots and its role in the history of East Asian meritocracy. You should be aware of its origins in the Chinese imperial examination system (Keju) and how this history colors the word with a sense of high-stakes, life-changing achievement. In advanced Japanese literature, particularly from the Meiji era, 及第 is not just about a test; it’s about social mobility and the heavy expectations of family and state. You should be able to discuss the philosophical implications of 'reaching the rank' and how it contrasts with modern concepts of 'success.' Furthermore, you should be sensitive to the rhythmic and stylistic choices of using 及第 in formal writing. It provides a certain 'kango' (Sino-Japanese word) weight to a sentence that a 'wago' (native Japanese word) or a loanword cannot. You should also be able to recognize and use rare idioms or set phrases that include these kanji, such as 及第の域に達する (to reach the level of passing/excellence). At this level, you aren't just using a word; you are invoking a cultural history of academic rigor and the pursuit of official recognition.

At the C2 level, 及第 (kyūdai) becomes a tool for nuanced expression in the highest forms of discourse. You should be able to use it to discuss abstract concepts of adequacy and the human condition. For example, in a philosophical essay, you might question what constitutes a 及第点 for a 'well-lived life' or an 'ethical society.' You should have a total command of its register, knowing exactly when its use will sound appropriately dignified and when it might sound archaic. You can analyze its use in the works of great Japanese authors, identifying how it reflects the social structures of their time. Furthermore, you should be able to use the word in highly technical legal or academic contexts where the distinction between 'passing a standard' (及第) and 'being admitted' (合格) is legally or procedurally significant. Your usage should be indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, utilizing the word to create specific rhetorical effects, such as irony or gravitas. You should also be capable of teaching the subtle differences between 及第 and its myriad synonyms to others, explaining the cultural 'flavor' that this specific kango brings to the Japanese language. At this level, the word is a small but essential piece of the vast tapestry of Japanese intellectual and cultural history.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

及第 in 30 Seconds

及第 (kyūdai) is a formal Japanese word used to describe passing an exam or meeting a specific performance standard, similar to '合格' (gōkaku) but more academic.
It is most commonly found in the compound '及第点' (kyūdaiten), which refers to the minimum score needed to pass a test or evaluation.
The word has deep historical roots in East Asian imperial examination systems, giving it a serious and prestigious tone compared to casual synonyms.
Grammatically, it functions as a noun and a suru-verb, typically taking the particle 'ni' to indicate the exam or standard being reached.

The Japanese word 及第 (kyūdai) is a formal noun that functions as a 'suru-verb' (及第する), primarily meaning to pass an examination, to reach a passing grade, or to meet a specific required standard. While the more common word for 'passing' is 合格 (gōkaku), 及第 carries a more academic or literary nuance, often implying that the subject has reached the minimum necessary threshold to be considered successful. The kanji themselves tell a story: 及 (kyū) means 'to reach' or 'to attain,' and 第 (dai) refers to 'rank,' 'degree,' or 'order.' Therefore, the etymological root of the word is 'reaching the required rank.'

Academic Context: In Japanese universities and historical academic settings, this word was the standard term for passing a grade. You will often see it in the compound 及第点 (kyūdaiten), which refers to the minimum passing mark. If a student gets exactly 60 points on a test where 60 is the passing line, they have reached the 及第点.

厳しい試験だったが、何とか及第することができた。(It was a tough exam, but I somehow managed to pass.)

Beyond exams, 及第 is used metaphorically to describe performance that is 'satisfactory' or 'acceptable.' In a business report, a manager might say a project is 及第, meaning it isn't necessarily perfect or outstanding, but it meets all the requirements and is acceptable for submission. It conveys a sense of relief rather than high praise. It is the 'C' grade of Japanese vocabulary—not an 'A+', but definitely not an 'F'.

Historical Usage: The term originates from the ancient Chinese imperial examination system (Keju). Candidates who 'reached the rank' were allowed to enter the civil service. This historical weight makes the word feel more prestigious and serious than the everyday 合格.

彼の作品は、プロとして活動するための及第点に達している。(His work has reached the passing standard to work as a professional.)

In modern conversation, you might hear older generations or highly educated individuals use this word more frequently. Younger people might only encounter it in literature or formal academic transcripts. When used in a social context, saying someone's behavior or cooking is 及第 is a way of giving a measured, slightly formal compliment—it says, 'This meets the standard of what I expected.'

Nuance of 'Just Passing': Unlike '合格' which can imply passing with flying colors, '及第' often focuses on the boundary between failure and success. It is the act of crossing that boundary. Therefore, it is frequently paired with adverbs like 何とか (nantoka - somehow) or ようやく (yōyaku - finally).

このレポートなら、教授も及第をくれるだろう。(With this report, the professor will probably give me a passing grade.)

今回の演技は、自分なりに及第点をあげたい。(I want to give myself a passing mark for this performance.)

Using 及第 (kyūdai) correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as both a noun and a suru-verb. In its most basic form, it follows the pattern [Subject] + は + [Exam/Standard] + に + 及第する. The particle に (ni) is crucial here, as it indicates the goal or standard that is being reached. Unlike '合格' which can sometimes take 'を' in loose speech, '及第' almost exclusively takes 'に' because of its meaning of 'reaching' a point.

The Suru-Verb Form: When used as a verb, it describes the action of passing. Example: 彼は司法試験に及第した (He passed the bar exam). This sounds significantly more formal and impressive than using '合格した'. It is often used in newspapers or formal biographies.

長年の努力が実り、ついに第一志望の大学に及第した。(Years of effort bore fruit, and I finally passed the entrance exam for my first-choice university.)

Another very common way to use this word is in the compound noun 及第点 (kyūdaiten). This specifically refers to the numerical score required to pass. You can use verbs like 取る (toru - to take/get), 達する (tassuru - to reach), or もらう (morau - to receive) with it. For instance, 及第点に達しない (to fall short of a passing grade) is a common way to describe failing by a narrow margin.

Metaphorical Usage: In non-academic settings, you can use 及第 to judge quality. If you are reviewing a new restaurant, you might say: 味は及第点だが、サービスが良くない (The taste is passable, but the service is not good). Here, it functions as a noun describing the level of quality.

彼の料理は、初心者としては及第点と言えるだろう。(His cooking can be said to be at a passing level for a beginner.)

In negative sentences, 不及第 (fukyūdai) is the formal word for failure (failing to reach the rank). However, it is more common to simply say 及第できなかった (could not pass) or 及第点に届かなかった (did not reach the passing mark). Using the negative form 及第しない is also perfectly acceptable in formal writing.

Common Collocations: 1. 試験に及第する (Pass an exam)
2. 及第点を与える (Give a passing grade)
3. 及第点を取る (Get a passing grade)
4. かろうじて及第する (Barely pass)

数学のテストで、ようやく及第点を取ることができた。(I finally managed to get a passing grade on the math test.)

この企画案は、部長から及第点をもらえなかった。(This project proposal didn't get a passing grade from the department manager.)

While you might not hear 及第 (kyūdai) at a casual coffee shop or a lively bar, it is a staple in specific environments in Japan. Understanding where this word lives will help you recognize the tone of the conversation. Primarily, it is an academic and professional term. If you are in a Japanese university, you might see it on your official transcript or hear a professor discussing the grading criteria for a difficult seminar.

Higher Education: Professors often use 及第 when explaining the minimum requirements for a course. They might say, 'To receive a passing grade (及第点), you must attend 80% of classes and submit all assignments.' It feels more authoritative and objective than 'passing.'

大学の掲示板に、及第者のリストが貼り出された。(The list of those who passed was posted on the university bulletin board.)

Another major arena for this word is historical and literary works. If you enjoy reading Japanese literature from the Meiji or Taisho eras (like Natsume Soseki or Mori Ogai), you will encounter 及第 frequently. Back then, passing the rigorous entrance exams for 'Higher Schools' or 'Imperial Universities' was a life-altering event, and 及第 was the standard term used to describe that monumental success.

News and Media: On the news, especially when reporting on professional certifications like the National Medical Exam or the Bar Exam, reporters may use 及第 to emphasize the difficulty of the achievement. It sounds more 'official' than the common '合格'.

今年の司法試験の及第率は、昨年よりも低かった。(The passing rate for this year's bar exam was lower than last year's.)

In the business world, 及第点 is a very useful term during performance reviews. A boss might say a new employee's work is '及第点' to indicate they are doing their job correctly, even if they aren't exceeding expectations yet. It’s a way to provide feedback that is professional and focused on standards rather than personal feelings.

Sports and Arts: Critics or commentators might use it to describe a player's performance. 'He didn't score, but his defensive work was a passing grade (及第点).' It implies the player did what was necessary for the team.

新人のデビュー戦としては、及第点を与えられる内容だった。(For a rookie's debut match, the performance was worthy of a passing grade.)

彼はその厳しい修行の末に、師匠から及第の許しを得た。(After strict training, he received permission to pass from his master.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 及第 (kyūdai) is using it in overly casual situations. Because it is a formal and somewhat 'stiff' word, using it with friends or family when talking about something minor—like passing a simple level in a video game—can sound slightly odd or even sarcastic. For everyday 'passing,' stick to 合格 (gōkaku) or パスする (pasu-suru).

Particle Confusion: As mentioned before, many learners mistakenly use を (wo) instead of に (ni). While '試験に及第する' is correct, '試験を及第する' is grammatically awkward. Remember that you are reaching to the rank, not performing an action upon the rank.

❌ 試験を及第しました。
✅ 試験に及第しました。

Another error is confusing 及第 with 'passing' in the sense of physical movement or time. In English, 'pass' can mean many things: passing a ball, passing a car, or time passing. In Japanese, 及第 ONLY refers to passing a standard or exam. You cannot use it to say 'The bus passed the stop' or 'Time passed quickly.' For those, you would use 通過する (tsūka suru) or 過ぎる (sugiru).

Overestimating the Praise: Mistaking 及第点 for a high score is a common misunderstanding of nuance. If you tell a Japanese chef that their food is '及第点,' they might be slightly disappointed because you are essentially saying it is 'just okay' or 'meets the bare minimum requirement.' It is not a word for excellence; it is a word for adequacy.

彼のスピーチは素晴らしかったが、及第点と言うには少し足りない。(His speech was great, but it's a bit of an understatement to just call it 'passing'.)

Finally, watch out for pronunciation. The 'kyū' in kyūdai is a long vowel. If you pronounce it as a short 'kyu,' it might be confused with other words. Also, ensure the 'dai' is clear. Some learners accidentally say 'kyūtai,' which means 'old state' or 'sphere,' leading to total confusion.

Misuse in Casual Settings: Don't use it for small daily successes. For example, if you catch a train just in time, don't say '及第した!'. Instead, use '間に合った!' (I made it!). 及第 is too 'heavy' for such a light situation.

❌ 宿題を終わらせて及第した！
✅ 宿題を終わらせて、とりあえず一安心だ。

彼は及第点を取ることに必死だった。(He was desperate just to get a passing grade.)

To master 及第 (kyūdai), it's essential to compare it with its synonyms and understand the subtle differences in their usage. The most obvious comparison is with 合格 (gōkaku). While both mean 'to pass,' 合格 is the general term used for everything from JLPT exams to driver's licenses. 及第 is more academic and focuses on the 'grade' or 'standard' itself.

及第 vs. 合格: 及第: Formal, academic, emphasizes reaching a threshold (e.g., 及第点).
合格: Versatile, common, emphasizes the result of being 'accepted' or 'qualified'.

彼は大学に合格した。(He was accepted into university.)
彼は数学の試験に及第した。(He passed the math exam standard.)

Another similar word is 通過 (tsūka). This means 'passing through' or 'passing a checkpoint.' You might use 通過 for preliminary rounds of a competition or for a train passing a station. It doesn't carry the academic weight of 及第. If you 'pass' a screening process, 書類選考を通過する is the standard phrase.

Alternative: パスする (Pasu-suru): This is the loanword from 'pass.' It is very casual. Use it when talking about passing a level in a game or when you are 'passing' on an offer (declining it). Never use 及第 to mean 'I'll pass on the dessert.'

一次審査を通過した。(Passed the first screening.)
デザートはパスします。(I'll pass on the dessert.)

For a more formal way to say 'meeting a standard,' you might use 基準を満たす (kijun o mitasu). This is common in technical or business contexts where you are checking if a product meets safety regulations. While 及第 is about a person's performance, 基準を満たす is about the object or data meeting the criteria.

Summary Table

及第: Academic/Formal Pass (Threshold)
合格: General Success/Acceptance
通過: Checkpoint/Preliminary Pass
クリア: Completion of a task/stage (Gamer slang)

この製品は安全基準を満たしている。(This product meets safety standards.)

ようやくこの難しい課題をクリアできた。(I finally cleared this difficult task.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The 'Dai' (第) in Kyūdai was originally a counter for houses or ranks, but in this context, it refers to the 'rank' of being a successful candidate on the official list.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kjuːdaɪ/

US /kjuːdaɪ/

The pitch accent in standard Japanese is usually on the second syllable: kyu-DAI (low-high-high).

Rhymes With

秀才 (Shūsai) 救済 (Kyūsai) 休載 (Kyūsai) 仲裁 (Chūsai) 駐在 (Chūzai) 部材 (Buzai) 機材 (Kizai) 自在 (Jizai)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kyu' as a short vowel instead of long 'kyū'.
Confusing 'dai' with 'tai' (kyūtai).
Muddling the 'ky' sound so it sounds like 'ki-u'.
Applying English stress patterns (KYU-dai) instead of Japanese pitch accent.
Forgetting the vowel length in 'dai' as well.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The kanji are somewhat advanced (N1 level) and not commonly used in daily signs.

Writing 4/5

Writing '及' and '第' requires knowledge of specific stroke orders and balance.

Speaking 3/5

The pronunciation is easy, but knowing when to use it requires cultural context.

Listening 3/5

Easily confused with other 'kyu' words if not listening carefully to the context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

試験 (Shiken) 合格 (Gōkaku) 点数 (Tensū) 大学 (Daigaku) 勉強 (Benkyō)

Learn Next

落第 (Rakudai) 進級 (Shinkyū) 偏差値 (Hensachi) 基準 (Kijun) 資格 (Shikaku)

Advanced

科挙 (Kakyō) 研鑽 (Kensan) 登竜門 (Tōryūmon) 精進 (Shōjin) 碩学 (Sekigaku)

Grammar to Know

Suru-Verbs (Noun + する)

及第 + する = 及第する (To pass)

Particle 'Ni' for Goals/Standards

試験に及第する (Pass the exam)

Nominalization with 'No' or 'Koto'

及第することは難しい。 (Passing is difficult.)

Potential Form with 'Dekiru'

及第できた。 (I was able to pass.)

Conditional '~ba' or '~tara'

及第すれば、旅行に行ける。 (If I pass, I can go on a trip.)

Examples by Level

試験に及第しました。

I passed the exam.

及第 (noun) + しました (polite past verb).

及第点は何点ですか？

What is the passing grade?

及第点 (compound noun) + は (topic) + 何点 (what score) + ですか (question).

彼は及第点を取りました。

He got a passing grade.

及第点 (object) + を (particle) + 取る (to take/get).

及第できて、うれしいです。

I am happy that I could pass.

及第 (verb stem) + できる (can) + て (conjunctive form).

及第点は６０点です。

The passing mark is 60 points.

及第点 (subject) + は (topic) + 60点 (60 points) + です (is).

がんばって及第しましょう。

Let's do our best and pass.

及第 (verb stem) + しましょう (let's do).

及第するのは難しいです。

Passing is difficult.

及第する (verb) + の (nominalizer) + は (topic) + 難しい (adjective).

及第点に届きました。

I reached the passing mark.

及第点 (goal) + に (particle) + 届く (to reach).

この料理は及第点ですね。

This dish is at a passing level (satisfactory).

及第点 (noun) + です (is) + ね (confirmation).

及第点に１点足りませんでした。

I was one point short of the passing grade.

及第点 (standard) + に (particle) + 足りない (to be insufficient).

何とか及第することができました。

I somehow managed to pass.

何とか (somehow) + 及第する (verb) + こと (nominalizer) + が (particle) + できる (can).

及第点をもらえて安心しました。

I was relieved to get a passing grade.

及第点 (object) + を (particle) + もらう (receive) + て (conjunctive).

次はもっと高い及第点を目指します。

Next time, I will aim for a higher passing standard.

目指す (to aim for) is used with the particle を.

及第点に達するのは大変です。

It is hard to reach the passing mark.

達する (to reach/attain) is a formal verb.

彼の仕事は及第点と言えるでしょう。

His work can be said to be at a passing level.

〜と言える (can be said) + でしょう (probably).

及第通知が届くのが楽しみです。

I'm looking forward to the passing notification arriving.

及第通知 (passing notice) + が (particle) + 届く (arrive).

及第点に達しない場合は、再試験です。

If you don't reach the passing mark, you'll have a re-test.

〜ない場合 (in the case of not...).

彼の演技は、新人としては及第点だった。

His acting was a passing grade for a newcomer.

〜としては (as for/from the standpoint of).

及第点を取るために、毎日３時間勉強した。

I studied for three hours every day to get a passing grade.

〜ために (for the purpose of).

このレポートは、内容的には及第点だ。

This report is a passing grade in terms of content.

〜的には (in terms of/from the perspective of).

及第した学生の氏名が発表された。

The names of the students who passed were announced.

及第した (past participle) modifying 学生 (students).

合格と及第の違いを教えてください。

Please tell me the difference between 'goukaku' and 'kyudai'.

AとBの違い (the difference between A and B).

及第点ギリギリで合格した。

I passed right at the edge of the passing mark.

ギリギリ (at the very limit/barely).

及第点をクリアするのは簡単ではない。

Clearing the passing standard is not easy.

クリアする (to clear) is used with 及第点.

及第点を死守しなければならない。

I must defend (maintain) the passing mark at all costs.

死守する (to defend to the death/at all costs).

彼の論文は、学術的な及第点に達している。

His thesis has reached an academic passing standard.

学術的 (academic) + な (adjective marker).

及第を確信していたが、結果は違った。

I was certain of passing, but the result was different.

確信する (to be certain of).

この計画案は、コスト面で及第点に遠い。

This plan is far from a passing grade in terms of cost.

〜に遠い (far from).

及第者が一人もいないという異例の事態だ。

It is an unprecedented situation where not a single person passed.

異例の事態 (unprecedented situation).

及第点を大幅に上回る成績を残した。

He left a record that significantly exceeded the passing grade.

大幅に (significantly) + 上回る (to exceed).

及第のために必要な条件を確認する。

Confirm the conditions necessary for passing.

必要な条件 (necessary conditions).

及第の可否は、明日の会議で決まる。

Whether one passes or fails will be decided in tomorrow's meeting.

可否 (yes/no, pass/fail, pros/cons).

彼は及第の喜びを家族に報告した。

He reported the joy of passing to his family.

及第 (noun) + の (possessive) + 喜び (joy).

及第点に甘んじることなく、高みを目指す。

I will aim higher without being satisfied with just a passing grade.

〜に甘んじる (to be content with/settle for).

及第の域に達するには、更なる研鑽が必要だ。

To reach the level of passing, further diligent study is required.

研鑽 (diligent study/polishing one's skills).

及第通知書を受け取った瞬間、涙が溢れた。

The moment I received the passing certificate, tears overflowed.

及第通知書 (official passing certificate).

及第点ギリギリの滑り込み合格だった。

It was a 'sliding-in' pass, just barely hitting the mark.

滑り込み (sliding in/barely making it).

科挙の時代、及第は一族の誉れであった。

In the era of the imperial exams, passing was the honor of the whole clan.

誉れ (honor/glory).

及第基準が厳格化され、合格者が激減した。

The passing standards were tightened, and the number of successful candidates plummeted.

厳格化 (tightening/making more strict).

彼の振る舞いは、紳士としての及第点に達していない。

His behavior does not reach the passing standard of a gentleman.

振る舞い (behavior/conduct).

及第の栄誉を勝ち取った彼は、次なる挑戦へ向かった。

Having won the honor of passing, he headed toward his next challenge.

栄誉 (honor/glory) + 勝ち取る (to win/achieve).

及第点という概念そのものが、教育の画一化を象徴している。

The very concept of a 'passing grade' symbolizes the standardization of education.

画一化 (standardization/uniformity).

及第に際して、師から厳しい戒めの言葉を授かった。

Upon passing, he received stern words of admonition from his master.

〜に際して (upon/on the occasion of) + 戒め (admonition/warning).

及第を果たすことは、単なる通過点に過ぎない。

Achieving a pass is nothing more than a mere passing point.

〜に過ぎない (is nothing more than).

及第点の多寡を競うのではなく、本質的な学びを重視すべきだ。

We should focus on essential learning rather than competing over how high the passing marks are.

多寡 (amount/quantity/number).

及第の可否が人生を左右するという重圧に耐えかねた。

I could not bear the pressure that the success or failure of passing would determine my life.

左右する (to influence/determine) + 耐えかねる (cannot bear).

及第点に満たないという非情な宣告が下された。

The heartless pronouncement was made that he fell short of the passing grade.

非情な (heartless/ruthless) + 宣告 (pronouncement/sentence).

及第を目指す過程で培われた精神力こそが、真の財産である。

The mental strength cultivated in the process of aiming to pass is the true asset.

培われる (to be cultivated/fostered).

Synonyms

合格パス通過入選登用

Antonyms

落第不合格

Common Collocations

及第点に達する

試験に及第する

及第点を与える

及第点に届かない

かろうじて及第する

及第通知を受け取る

及第者の発表

及第点を取る

及第の域

及第を許す

Common Phrases

及第点

— The passing mark or a satisfactory level. It is the most common compound of this word.

及第点を目指して勉強する。

及第する

— To pass an exam. Used as a formal alternative to '合格する'.

難しい試験に及第した。

及第者

— Successful candidates or those who have passed. Often seen on official lists.

及第者の氏名が掲示された。

不及第

— Failure to pass. A very formal term used in academic records.

彼は不及第となり、留年した。

及第通知

— Official notification of passing. Something students wait for anxiously.

及第通知が郵送で届いた。

及第基準

— The criteria or standards required to pass. Set by the examiners.

及第基準は毎年変動する。

及第率

— The passing rate. Used in statistics about professional exams.

今年の及第率は非常に低かった。

及第の喜び

— The joy of passing. A common phrase in formal speeches or essays.

及第の喜びを噛み締める。

及第答案

— A passing answer sheet. Often used as a model for other students.

及第答案を参考にする。

及第論文

— A passing thesis or paper. One that met all academic requirements.

これが彼の及第論文だ。

Often Confused With

及第 vs 合格 (Gōkaku)

Gōkaku is broader and more common. Kyūdai is specifically about the 'grade' or 'standard'.

及第 vs 落第 (Rakudai)

Rakudai means failing or repeating a grade. They share the 'dai' kanji.

及第 vs 通過 (Tsūka)

Tsūka is for checkpoints or passing through, not necessarily academic standards.

Idioms & Expressions

"及第点を稼ぐ"

— To earn enough points just to pass. Often implies doing the bare minimum.

彼は要領よく及第点を稼いだ。

Neutral

"及第の域に達する"

— To reach a level where one is considered competent or acceptable.

彼のピアノは及第の域に達している。

Formal

"及第点を付ける"

— To give someone a passing grade or to judge their performance as acceptable.

今回のプレゼンには及第点を付けよう。

Professional

"及第点をもらう"

— To receive a passing grade, often metaphorically from a boss or critic.

新しい上司から及第点をもらった。

Neutral

"及第を果たす"

— To successfully achieve a pass. Sounds more dramatic than just 'passing'.

三度目の正直で及第を果たした。

Formal/Literary

"及第の誉れ"

— The honor of having passed a difficult exam.

及第の誉れを授かる。

Old-fashioned/Formal

"及第に届く"

— To reach the passing standard. Often used when someone was close to failing.

何とか及第に届いた。

Neutral

"及第点を死守する"

— To protect one's status of passing, ensuring one doesn't fall below the line.

彼は及第点を死守するために必死だった。

Idiomatic

"及第の許し"

— Permission to pass, usually given by a master in traditional arts.

師匠から及第の許しを得る。

Traditional

"及第点ギリギリ"

— Just barely at the passing mark. A very common descriptive phrase.

及第点ギリギリで助かった。

Casual/Neutral

Easily Confused

及第 vs 及第 (Kyūdai)

Sounds like 'Kyūtai' (Old state) or 'Kyūtai' (Sphere).

Kyūdai is passing; Kyūtai (球体) is a sphere. Context usually clarifies this, but pronunciation must be precise.

試験に及第する vs 地球は球体だ。

及第 vs 及第 (Kyūdai)

Often used interchangeably with '合格' by learners.

Kyūdai focuses on the minimum score (threshold); Gōkaku focuses on the overall success/acceptance.

及第点に達した vs 大学に合格した。

及第 vs 落第 (Rakudai)

Both end in 'dai' and relate to exams.

Kyūdai is passing; Rakudai is failing/repeating a grade.

及第して安心した vs 落第して悲しい。

及第 vs 通過 (Tsūka)

Both mean 'pass' in English.

Tsūka is for moving through a space or a round; Kyūdai is for a static score requirement.

改札を通過する vs 及第点を取る。

及第 vs パス (Pasu)

English speakers use 'pass' for everything.

Pasu is informal/game-related or declining; Kyūdai is formal/academic.

この問題はパスする vs 司法試験に及第する。

Sentence Patterns

[Exam] に及第しました。

テストに及第しました。

[Score] は及第点です。

７０点は及第点です。

何とか [Exam] に及第することができた。

何とか試験に及第することができた。

[Subject] は及第点に達していない。

彼の演技は及第点に達していない。

及第の域に達するには [Effort] が必要だ。

及第の域に達するには毎日の練習が必要だ。

及第の可否が [Outcome] を左右する。

及第の可否が将来を左右する。

及第点ギリギリで [Result]。

及第点ギリギリで合格した。

及第点をもらう。

先生から及第点をもらった。

Word Family

Nouns

及第 (Kyūdai) - Passing

及第点 (Kyūdaiten) - Passing grade

及第者 (Kyūdaisha) - Person who passed

不及第 (Fukyūdai) - Failure to pass

Verbs

及第する (Kyūdai suru) - To pass

Adjectives

及第点の (Kyūdaiten no) - Passing-level (e.g., 及第点の作品)

合格 (Gōkaku)

落第 (Rakudai)

進級 (Shinkyū)

卒業 (Sotsugyō)

選考 (Senkō)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in academic and professional settings; rare in daily casual speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 'を' instead of 'に'. → 試験に及第する。
及第 indicates reaching a goal, so 'ni' is the required particle.
Using it for physical passing. → 車を追い越す (Pass a car).
及第 is strictly for academic or qualitative standards.
Using it as high praise. → すばらしい！ (Wonderful!)
Calling someone's hard work '及第点' can sound like you are saying it's just 'okay'.
Using it in casual slang. → パスした！ (I passed!)
'及第' is too stiff for casual conversation with friends.
Confusing it with '落第'. → 及第 (Pass) vs 落第 (Fail).
They are opposites. Make sure you don't use the wrong one during a celebration!

Tips

Use for Standards

Use '及第' when you want to emphasize that someone met a specific, pre-set standard rather than just 'winning'.

Particle Ni

Always remember to use the particle 'に' (ni) with the verb form: [Exam] に及第する.

Satisfactory, not Excellent

Remember that '及第点' often implies 'good enough' or 'passable' rather than 'perfect'.

Formal Contexts

Use this word in university applications or formal reports to sound more professional.

Kanji Meaning

Associate '及' with 'reaching'—you are reaching for the grade.

Not for Physical Passing

Never use '及第' for passing a car, a person on the street, or time.

Learn 及第点

If you only learn one phrase with this word, make it '及第点' (passing mark). It's the most useful.

Long Vowel

Ensure the 'kyū' is long. A short 'kyu' might sound like 'sudden' (kyū) but the context is different.

Context Clues

If you hear 'dai' after 'kyu' in a school setting, it's almost certainly '及第'.

Historical Weight

Think of the old Chinese exams to remember the formal and serious nature of this word.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Kyū' as 'Queue' (a line) and 'Dai' as 'Die'. You have to wait in the 'Queue' for a long time, or you'll 'Die' if you don't reach the passing line!

Visual Association

Imagine a hand (及) reaching up to grab a certificate placed on a high step (第).

Word Web

Test Score Success Standard University Rank Passing Requirement

Challenge

Try to use the word '及第点' in a sentence today to describe something that is 'just okay' or 'satisfactory' instead of using 'まあまあ'.

Word Origin

Derived from Middle Chinese. The word entered the Japanese language as part of the massive influx of Sino-Japanese vocabulary (Kango) during the classical period.

Original meaning: In ancient China, it specifically referred to passing the 'Keju' (Imperial Examinations), which were the only path to high government office.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Be careful when telling someone their work is '及第点'. It can sound like you are saying it's the bare minimum, which might be taken as an insult if they worked very hard.

English speakers often use 'Pass' for everything. Japanese distinguishes between 'Gōkaku' (success/acceptance) and 'Kyūdai' (attaining the standard).

Natsume Soseki's novels often mention the pressure to '及第'. Historical dramas (Jidaigeki) showing the Chinese or Japanese civil service exams. Academic transcripts in Japanese universities still use this formal term.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

University Exams

及第点を確認する
及第者に選ばれる
及第通知を待つ
及第点を下回る

Professional Certification

国家試験に及第する
及第率の推移
及第基準の厳格化
及第後の研修

Performance Review

仕事の質が及第点だ
及第点を与える
及第点に達していない
及第点を維持する

Traditional Arts

師匠から及第を認められる
及第の域に達する
及第の証書
及第を許される

Literary/Academic Discussion

及第という概念
及第を巡る葛藤
及第の歴史
及第の社会的意義

Conversation Starters

"試験の及第点は何点だった？ (What was the passing mark for the exam?)"

"今回のプロジェクト、自分では及第点をあげられると思う？ (Do you think you can give yourself a passing grade for this project?)"

"及第通知が届いた時の気持ちはどうだった？ (How did you feel when the passing notice arrived?)"

"及第点ギリギリで合格したことある？ (Have you ever passed right at the passing mark?)"

"及第するために一番大切なことは何だと思う？ (What do you think is the most important thing for passing?)"

Journal Prompts

今日の自分の行動に及第点をあげるとしたら、何点ですか？その理由も書いてください。 (If you were to give today's actions a passing grade, what score would it be? Write the reason as well.)

今までで一番及第するのが難しかった試験について書いてください。 (Write about the exam that was the hardest for you to pass so far.)

及第点（満足できるレベル）に達するために、今努力していることは何ですか？ (What are you currently working on to reach a passing level/satisfactory level?)

「及第」と「合格」の違いについて、自分の言葉で説明してみましょう。 (Try to explain the difference between 'Kyudai' and 'Goukaku' in your own words.)

将来、及第したい目標や試験について詳しく書いてください。 (Write in detail about a goal or exam you want to pass in the future.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not very often. It is a formal word. In daily life, people almost always use '合格' (gōkaku) or 'パス' (pasu). You will mostly hear '及第' in schools, news, or formal evaluations.

While both mean 'to pass,' '合格' is more about being accepted or winning a spot. '及第' is specifically about reaching the required 'grade' or 'standard.' Think of '及第' as meeting the minimum requirements.

No. For passing a ball, you should use the loanword 'パス' (pasu). '及第' is only for exams or performance standards.

It means 'passing grade.' If you need 60 points to pass a test, 60 is the '及第点.' Metaphorically, it means a 'satisfactory' level that is just good enough.

Yes, you can say '及第する' (to pass). It is common in formal writing and academic contexts.

No, it usually implies a 'C' or 'Pass' grade—the minimum needed to succeed. It doesn't necessarily mean you did exceptionally well, just that you didn't fail.

The most formal opposite is '不及第' (fukyūdai). A more common word for failing an exam is '不合格' (fugōkaku) or '落第' (rakudai).

You can use '及第者' (kyūdaisha) to mean 'a person who passed.' You wouldn't usually describe a person as '及第' directly.

The first kanji is 及 (reach) and the second is 第 (rank/order). Be careful with the stroke order of 及, starting with the top-left stroke.

It comes from the ancient Chinese imperial exams, which were the most prestigious and difficult tests in history. That historical weight makes the word sound serious and academic.