Synthesis means combining disparate elements into a unified, coherent whole.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Combining various parts into a single, unified whole.
- Used to describe evaluating something from multiple perspectives.
- Often used as 'sogo-teki' (comprehensive) in daily Japanese.
概要
「総合」は、複数の異なる要素や性質を一つに合わせ、全体として調和のとれた状態にすることを意味します。単に物を並べるのではなく、それらを整理・統合して一つのまとまりを作るという能動的なニュアンスが含まれています。
使用パターン
「総合的な判断」「総合評価」「総合病院」のように、名詞を修飾する「総合的（な）」という形容動詞として非常に頻繁に使われます。また、「総合する」という動詞として「情報を総合して結論を出す」のように使われることもあります。
類語との比較
「合計」は単なる数字の足し算ですが、「総合」は質的な統合を含みます。「統合」はシステムや組織を一つにまとめるという強い意味を持ちますが、「総合」はそれよりも幅広く、多角的な視点を含んだまとめ方を指します。
Examples
彼は総合的な判断を下した。
formalHe made a comprehensive judgment.
近くの総合病院へ行く。
everydayI am going to a general hospital nearby.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
総合力
comprehensive ability
総合学習
integrated studies
Often Confused With
Refers strictly to the sum of numbers or quantities. It lacks the nuance of qualitative synthesis.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is formal and primarily used in academic, professional, or medical contexts. It implies looking at the 'big picture' rather than individual parts. In casual speech, 'matomeru' is preferred.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'sogo' when they mean 'gokei' (simple sum). Remember that 'sogo' implies a qualitative integration of different aspects, not just calculation.
Tips
Use with 'teki' for adjectives
Adding 'teki' turns it into 'comprehensive'. It is the most common way to use this word in daily business communication.
Don't confuse with simple addition
Avoid using 'sogo' for simple math problems. Use 'gokei' (total) for numbers instead.
Word Origin
Derived from Kanji '総' (all/total) and '合' (to fit/join). Together they imply fitting all pieces into one whole.
Cultural Context
In Japan, 'Sogo' is often used in names of public institutions, emphasizing that they provide a wide range of services under one roof.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'General Hospital' (Sogo Byoin) which treats all parts of the body together. It brings all medical fields into one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions合計は主に数字を足し合わせた総計を指します。一方、総合は質や内容が異なるものを一つにまとめる際に使われます。
ある物事について、一つの側面だけでなく多角的な視点から判断する時に使います。例えば「総合的に判断する」というフレーズが一般的です。
はい、「総合する」という形で使えます。ただし、日常会話では「まとめる」を使う方が自然な場合も多いです。
Test Yourself
今回の試験結果を___的に判断して合否を決める。
多角的な視点での判断には「総合的」が適しています。
Score: /1
Summary
Synthesis means combining disparate elements into a unified, coherent whole.
- Combining various parts into a single, unified whole.
- Used to describe evaluating something from multiple perspectives.
- Often used as 'sogo-teki' (comprehensive) in daily Japanese.
Use with 'teki' for adjectives
Adding 'teki' turns it into 'comprehensive'. It is the most common way to use this word in daily business communication.
Don't confuse with simple addition
Avoid using 'sogo' for simple math problems. Use 'gokei' (total) for numbers instead.
Examples
2 of 2彼は総合的な判断を下した。
He made a comprehensive judgment.
近くの総合病院へ行く。
I am going to a general hospital nearby.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Vocabulary
More academic words
絶対的
B2Absolute; not qualified or diminished in any way; total.
絶対的に
B1In a complete, unconditional, or conclusive manner; absolutely.
抽象的だ
B1Abstract; existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
抽象
B2Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence. It refers to generalizing or extracting the essence of something away from specific details.
抽象的に
B1In an abstract or theoretical manner.
学術的な
B1Academic, scholarly; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的だ
B1Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的
B2Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術
B1Academia; scholarship; relating to scholarly pursuits.
学力
B1Academic ability; a person's level of knowledge and skill in academic subjects.
