養成する in 30 Seconds
- Active training and nurturing for development.
- Focuses on cultivating skills, talent, or potential.
- Implies a deliberate, often structured process.
- Used in education, business, and personal growth contexts.
- Verb
- The verb 養成する (yōsei suru) is a versatile term in Japanese that signifies the act of nurturing, developing, or bringing something up to a certain standard or level. It encompasses the idea of actively cultivating potential, whether it's skills, talent, character, or even living organisms. The nuance lies in a deliberate and sustained effort to foster growth and improvement. It's often used in contexts where a structured or guided process is involved in bringing about a desired outcome. The 'suru' part indicates it's an action verb, meaning 'to do' or 'to make,' making 養成する 'to make grow' or 'to cultivate.' Think of it as the opposite of neglect; it's about intentional care and development. You might 養成する a plant to make it flourish, 養成する a student's academic abilities, or 養成する a successor in a company. The term implies a process that takes time and effort, aiming to achieve a mature or fully developed state. It's not just about teaching a skill, but about nurturing the underlying capacity for that skill to develop and thrive. This can range from fostering creativity in children to developing specialized expertise in professionals. The goal is often to produce something of value, be it a well-rounded individual, a skilled professional, or a successful enterprise. It's a proactive verb, suggesting that one is taking deliberate steps to bring about positive change and growth. The term is widely applicable across various fields, from education and business to personal development and even agriculture. The emphasis is on the continuous process of nurturing and growth, leading to a desired, often superior, outcome. It's about investing in the future by developing what exists today.
- Verbal Usage
- The verb 養成する is typically used with a direct object that represents what is being trained or cultivated. The structure is usually [Object] を 養成する. For example, 'talent' (才能 - sainō) can be cultivated: 才能を養成する (sainō o yōsei suru) - to cultivate talent. Similarly, 'skills' (技術 - gijutsu) can be fostered: 技術を養成する (gijutsu o yōsei suru) - to foster skills. In educational settings, students (学生 - gakusei) or children (子供 - kodomo) might be the object: 学生を養成する (gakusei o yōsei suru) - to train students. The verb can also be used in its passive form, 養成される (yōsei sareru), meaning 'to be trained' or 'to be cultivated.' This is common when the focus is on the recipient of the training rather than the trainer. Consider its application in professional development. A company might 従業員を養成する (jūgyōin o yōsei suru) - to train employees, aiming to build a skilled workforce. In the arts, one might 芸術家を養成する (geijutsuka o yōsei suru) - to nurture artists. The term implies a conscious effort to nurture potential and guide development. It can also refer to the upbringing of living things, such as plants or animals, though more specific verbs might be used in those contexts depending on the nuance. For instance, one might 選手を養成する (senshu o yōsei suru) - to train athletes, focusing on their physical and mental development for competitive sports. The verb can also be used with abstract concepts like 'leadership' (リーダーシップ - rīdāshippu) or 'creativity' (創造性 - sōzōsei). For example, リーダーシップを養成する (rīdāshippu o yōsei suru) - to develop leadership skills. The continuous nature of the action is often implied, suggesting a process over time rather than a single event. This makes it suitable for describing long-term development goals. The context will usually clarify whether it refers to academic, professional, artistic, or personal growth. The form itself is consistent, making it a reliable verb to incorporate into your vocabulary when discussing development and cultivation.
- Real-World Usage
- You'll frequently encounter 養成する in educational and corporate settings in Japan. In universities and vocational schools, mission statements or course descriptions might mention their goal to 学生や社会人を養成する (gakusei ya shakaijin o yōsei suru) - to train students and working adults. Companies often have internal training programs designed to 優秀な人材を養成する (yūshū na jinzai o yōsei suru) - to cultivate excellent human resources. This is particularly common in fields that require specialized skills, like engineering, IT, or healthcare, where continuous learning and development are crucial. News reports about economic development or workforce planning might also use this term when discussing strategies to 産業界のニーズに応えられる人材を養成する (sangyōkai no nīzu ni kotaerareru jinzai o yōsei suru) - to train personnel who can meet the needs of the industry. Beyond formal institutions, the term appears in discussions about personal growth and talent development. For example, a mentor might talk about how they aim to 若手の才能を養成する (wakate no sainō o yōsei suru) - to foster the talent of younger individuals. In sports, coaches are constantly working to 選手を養成する (senshu o yōsei suru) - to train athletes, honing their skills and physical capabilities. Even in less direct contexts, like discussions about parenting or childcare, the idea of 子供の能力を養成する (kodomo no nōryoku o yōsei suru) - to develop a child's abilities, can be implied. The word is also prevalent in literature and media discussing the cultivation of artists, writers, or musicians. When looking at Japanese websites or brochures for academies, training centers, or even research institutions, you'll often see 養成する used to highlight their commitment to developing individuals. For instance, a language school might advertise that they 語学のプロフェッショナルを養成する (gogaku no purofesshonaru o yōsei suru) - train language professionals. The term's broad applicability means it can be heard in conversations about anything from cultivating a successful business to nurturing a budding artist. It's a key verb for understanding how growth and development are discussed in Japanese society.
- Potential Pitfalls
- One common mistake for learners is to confuse 養成する with simpler verbs like 教える (oshieru - to teach) or 育てる (sodateru - to raise/nurture). While there's overlap, 養成する implies a more structured, often professional or academic, cultivation process aimed at developing specific advanced skills or qualities. 育てる is broader and can apply to raising children or plants, focusing more on general growth and well-being. 教える is simply imparting knowledge or a skill directly. For example, you 育てる a child, but you 養成する a future leader. You 教える a language, but you 養成する a translator. Another pitfall is using 養成する in contexts where a more specific verb is appropriate. For instance, while you can technically 養成する a dog's obedience, you would more commonly use 訓練する (kunren suru - to train, especially animals or for specific tasks) or しつける (shitsukeru - to discipline/train in manners). Similarly, for plants, 育てる is more common than 養成する unless you're talking about cultivating a specific strain for a particular purpose. Overusing 養成する for everyday skills can make your Japanese sound overly formal or even slightly unnatural. Learners might also struggle with the passive form 養成される. While it means 'to be trained,' it's important to ensure the context fits. For example, if someone says 彼が養成された (kare ga yōsei sareta), it implies a deliberate, structured process of development, perhaps in a specialized academy or company, rather than just general learning. Misusing the passive can lead to an unintended emphasis on the *method* of training rather than the *act* of learning. Lastly, be mindful of the formality. While 養成する is not overly formal, it's generally more suited for professional or educational contexts than casual conversation among close friends. For more informal settings, simpler verbs might be preferred.
- Distinguishing Nuances
- 育てる (sodateru): This is a very common verb meaning 'to raise,' 'to nurture,' or 'to grow.' It's used for raising children, pets, or plants. It has a broader, more general sense of fostering growth and development. While 養成する often focuses on developing specific skills or potential for a particular purpose, 育てる is about general upbringing and care. For example, you sodateru a child into a well-adjusted person, but you might yōsei suru a child's talent for music.
訓練する (kunren suru): This verb means 'to train' or 'to drill,' often implying rigorous practice and discipline. It's commonly used for training athletes, soldiers, or animals for specific tasks. 養成する is more about fostering potential and broad development, while 訓練する is about honing specific skills through repeated practice and conditioning. You might yōsei suru a young talent and then kunren suru them for a competition.
育成する (ikusei suru): This verb is very similar to 養成する and often interchangeable, meaning 'to cultivate,' 'to breed,' or 'to foster development.' It's frequently used in contexts of nurturing young talent, developing new species (like plants or animals), or fostering the growth of a company or project. Some might perceive 育成する as slightly more focused on biological or systematic growth, while 養成する can lean more towards human skills and character development, but the distinction is subtle.
指導する (shidō suru): This means 'to guide,' 'to instruct,' or 'to lead.' It focuses more on the act of providing direction and advice. While guidance is part of 養成する, 養成する encompasses the entire process of fostering development, which includes more than just instruction. You might shidō suru a student on a project, but you yōsei suru them into a competent professional.
教育する (kyōiku suru): This means 'to educate' or 'to bring up.' It's a broad term that covers formal schooling and moral upbringing. 養成する is often a component of 教育する, focusing on the specific development of skills or potential within a broader educational framework.
How Formal Is It?
"本学は、グローバル社会で活躍できる高度な専門知識と応用能力を備えた人材を養成することを目的としております。"
"この研修プログラムは、参加者のリーダーシップ能力を養成することを意図しています。"
"うちのチームは、新しいメンバーのスキルをどんどん養成していきたいんだ。"
"先生は、みんなの絵を描くのが上手になるように、優しく教えてくれるよ。"
Fun Fact
The kanji 養 (yō) is also used in words related to diet and nourishment, such as 栄養 (eiyō - nutrition) and 食養 (shokuyō - dietary therapy), highlighting its core meaning of providing sustenance for life and growth. The kanji 成 (sei) appears in many words related to accomplishment and completion, such as 成功 (seikō - success) and 完成 (kansei - completion).
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'yō' sound as 'yo' without the elongated vowel.
- Pronouncing 'sei' as 'see' or 'say-ee' instead of a clear 'say' sound.
- Giving equal stress to all syllables, rather than emphasizing 'sei' and 'su.'
Difficulty Rating
The verb 養成する appears in academic, professional, and educational texts. Understanding its nuances requires familiarity with contexts related to skill development, talent cultivation, and structured training. Texts discussing career paths, educational philosophies, or corporate training programs will frequently use this term.
Using 養成する correctly in writing requires understanding its specific contexts and avoiding confusion with similar verbs like 育てる or 訓練する. Learners need to grasp the nuance of deliberate, structured cultivation and apply it appropriately in sentences, ensuring correct particle usage and verb conjugation.
When speaking, learners should aim to use 養成する in contexts related to training, development, or fostering potential. Practicing with target phrases and ensuring natural pronunciation will enhance fluency. It's important to differentiate it from more casual terms for 'raising' or 'teaching.'
Recognizing 養成する in spoken Japanese will likely occur in formal presentations, educational lectures, business meetings, or discussions about career development. Paying attention to the surrounding context will help distinguish its meaning from similar verbs.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
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Grammar to Know
Use of the particle を (o) with transitive verbs.
才能を養成する (sainō o yōsei suru) - To cultivate talent. The particle を marks the direct object of the verb 養成する.
Passive voice construction: ～される (~sareru).
優秀な人材が養成される。(yūshū na jinzai ga yōsei sareru.) - Excellent personnel are cultivated. This form shifts the focus to the recipient of the action.
Purpose clauses: ～ために (~tame ni).
選手を養成するために、厳しい練習を行う。(senshu o yōsei suru tame ni, kibishii renshū o okonau.) - To train athletes, rigorous practice is conducted. This indicates the reason or purpose for an action.
Nominalization with こと (koto) or の (no).
創造性を養成することが重要だ。(sōzōsei o yōsei suru koto ga jūyō da.) - It is important to cultivate creativity. The phrase 'to cultivate creativity' is treated as a noun phrase.
Relative clauses modifying nouns.
社会で活躍できる人材を養成する。(shakai de katsuyaku dekiru jinzai o yōsei suru.) - To train personnel who can be active in society. The clause 'shakai de katsuyaku dekiru' modifies 'jinzai'.
Examples by Level
先生は子供の才能を育てる。
The teacher nurtures the child's talent.
Simple present tense, direct object marker 'o'.
この学校は優秀な人材を育てる。
This school cultivates excellent personnel.
Plural noun 'jinzai' used with 'o'.
犬を育てるのは楽しい。
Raising a dog is fun.
Gerund form 'sodateru no' as the subject.
植物を育てる。
To grow plants.
Basic verb phrase.
彼は才能を育てている。
He is developing his talent.
Continuous tense '-te iru'.
子供たちを優しく育てる。
To raise children kindly.
Adverb 'yasashiku' modifying the verb.
新しい技術を育てる。
To develop new technology.
Abstract noun 'gijutsu' as object.
この計画は成功を育てる。
This plan fosters success.
Abstract noun 'seikō' as object.
会社は新しいリーダーを養成するプログラムを持っています。
The company has a program to train new leaders.
Use of 'program' as a loanword, 'o' particle.
この学校は、将来のエンジニアを養成することを目指しています。
This school aims to cultivate future engineers.
Purpose clause with 'koto o mezashite imasu'.
彼は長年、若手選手を養成してきました。
He has been training young athletes for many years.
Past perfect continuous '-te kimashita' indicating ongoing action up to the present.
芸術家としての才能を養成するために、毎日練習しています。
I practice every day to cultivate my talent as an artist.
Purpose clause with 'tame ni'.
この研修は、専門的なスキルを養成することを目的としています。
This training aims to foster specialized skills.
'Koto o mokuteki to shite imasu' for stating the objective.
彼女は、チームの士気を養成することに力を入れています。
She is focusing on fostering team morale.
Noun phrase 'shiki o yōsei suru koto' as the object of 'chikara o irete imasu'.
このプログラムは、次世代のリーダーを養成するように設計されています。
This program is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders.
Passive form 'yōsei sareru yō ni sekkei sarete imasu'.
音楽の才能を養成するには、幼い頃からの教育が大切です。
To cultivate musical talent, education from a young age is important.
Nominalization with 'koto' and use of 'kyōiku'.
大学は、社会で活躍できる人材を養成する責任があります。
Universities have a responsibility to train personnel who can be active in society.
Relative clause modifying 'jinzai' (人材).
この企業は、独自の技術を持つ研究者を養成することに注力しています。
This company is focusing on cultivating researchers with unique technologies.
Use of 'chūryoku shite imasu' (focusing on).
彼は、将来の経営幹部候補を養成するために、特別研修プログラムを立ち上げました。
He launched a special training program to cultivate candidates for future management executives.
Nominalization with 'koto' and purpose clause.
子供たちの創造性を養成することは、教育において非常に重要です。
Cultivating children's creativity is extremely important in education.
Nominalization with 'koto' as the subject.
このプログラムを通じて、国際的な視野を持つビジネスパーソンを養成することを目指します。
Through this program, we aim to cultivate business professionals with an international perspective.
Use of 'shiten' (perspective) and 'mezasu' (aim).
長年の経験を通じて、彼は熟練した職人を養成するノウハウを習得しました。
Through many years of experience, he has acquired the know-how to train skilled artisans.
'Know-how' as a loanword, 'nōryoku o shūtoku shimashita' (acquired ability).
将来のリーダーを養成するためには、単なる知識の伝達以上のものが必要です。
To cultivate future leaders, something more than mere knowledge transfer is necessary.
Comparison with 'ijō no mono ga hitsuyō desu'.
この芸術学校は、革新的なアーティストを養成することで知られています。
This art school is known for cultivating innovative artists.
Passive construction 'de shira rete imasu' (is known for).
企業は、変化の激しい現代社会に対応できる人材を養成するための戦略を練る必要がある。
Companies need to devise strategies to cultivate personnel who can adapt to the rapidly changing modern society.
Complex sentence structure with subordinate clauses and nominalization.
教育機関は、単に知識を詰め込むだけでなく、批判的思考力や問題解決能力を養成することに重点を置くべきだ。
Educational institutions should focus on cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills, not just cramming knowledge.
Modal verb 'beki da' (should), use of negative 'dake de naku'.
このプログラムは、グローバルな視点と異文化理解を兼ね備えた国際的なリーダーを養成することを目的としている。
This program aims to cultivate international leaders who possess both a global perspective and cross-cultural understanding.
Use of 'kane-sonaeta' (possessing both) and complex adjective phrase.
長年にわたる研究開発を通じて、弊社は次世代の技術革新を担う人材を養成することに成功してきました。
Through years of research and development, our company has succeeded in cultivating personnel who will drive next-generation technological innovation.
Use of 'ni ninau' (to bear responsibility for) and 'seikō shite kimashita'.
地域社会の持続的な発展に貢献できる人材を養成するため、産学官連携による新たな教育プログラムが開始された。
A new educational program through industry-academia-government collaboration has been launched to cultivate personnel who can contribute to the sustainable development of the local community.
Complex nominalization and passive voice.
現代のビジネス環境では、変化への適応能力と、未知の課題に挑戦する意欲を養成することが不可欠である。
In today's business environment, it is essential to cultivate adaptability to change and the motivation to tackle unknown challenges.
Use of 'fukaketsu de aru' (is essential).
この芸術祭は、若手アーティストの才能を発掘し、彼らが国際的な舞台で活躍できるよう養成するためのプラットフォームを提供している。
This art festival provides a platform to discover the talents of young artists and to cultivate them so they can be active on the international stage.
Complex sentence with multiple subordinate clauses and purpose.
企業文化の醸成と、従業員のエンゲージメントを高めることは、組織全体の生産性を養成する上で極めて重要である。
Fostering corporate culture and increasing employee engagement are extremely important for cultivating the overall productivity of the organization.
Use of 'jōsei' (fostering) and 'kyokutame ni jūyō de aru'.
グローバル化が進展する現代において、異文化間コミュニケーション能力に長けた人材を養成することは、国際社会の持続可能な発展に不可欠である。
In the current era of advancing globalization, cultivating personnel proficient in intercultural communication is indispensable for the sustainable development of international society.
Complex sentence with abstract nouns, passive voice, and formal vocabulary.
教育システムは、単なる知識伝達に留まらず、個々の学習者の潜在能力を最大限に引き出し、自律的な学習者として成長を養成する方向へと転換すべきである。
The education system should shift towards drawing out each learner's full potential and fostering their growth as autonomous learners, rather than merely imparting knowledge.
Use of 'tomerazu' (not stopping at), 'saizenteki nōryoku' (potential ability), and nominalization.
技術革新のスピードが加速する中で、企業は常に変化に対応し、新たな価値を創造できるイノベーターを養成するための継続的な投資を怠ってはならない。
Amidst the accelerating pace of technological innovation, companies must not neglect continuous investment to cultivate innovators who can respond to change and create new value.
Complex sentence with adverbial phrases, conditional clauses, and strong negation.
地域社会の活性化と持続可能な発展を推進するためには、地域住民の主体性を養成し、彼らが主体的に問題解決に取り組めるような環境を整備することが肝要である。
To promote the revitalization and sustainable development of local communities, it is crucial to foster the autonomy of local residents and create an environment where they can proactively engage in problem-solving.
Use of 'shutaisei' (autonomy/initiative), 'shutaiteki ni' (proactively), and 'kan' (crucial).
芸術教育においては、確立された技法を習得させるだけでなく、個々の感性を刺激し、独自の表現方法を模索する能力を養成することが、真の創造性を育む上で不可欠である。
In art education, it is indispensable for nurturing true creativity to not only teach established techniques but also to stimulate individual sensibilities and cultivate the ability to explore unique forms of expression.
Complex sentence with comparative clauses and emphasis on 'true creativity'.
AI技術の急速な発展に伴い、倫理的な判断能力や、人間とAIが協調して新たな価値を創造する能力を養成することが、将来の社会において極めて重要となるだろう。
With the rapid development of AI technology, cultivating ethical judgment and the ability for humans and AI to collaborate and create new value will likely become extremely important in future society.
Use of conditional clauses and predictive future tense.
リーダーシップ論においては、カリスマ性や権威主義的なアプローチだけでなく、共感力や協調性を重視し、多様な意見を包摂できるようなリーダーを養成することの重要性が説かれている。
In leadership theory, the importance of cultivating leaders who emphasize empathy and collaboration and can embrace diverse opinions, rather than solely charismatic or authoritarian approaches, is advocated.
Complex sentence structure with contrasting elements and passive voice.
持続可能な社会の実現を目指す上で、環境問題に対する深い理解と、それらを解決するための実践的なスキルを養成することは、次世代を担う若者にとって喫緊の課題である。
In aiming for the realization of a sustainable society, cultivating a deep understanding of environmental issues and practical skills to solve them is an urgent task for the youth who will carry the next generation.
Use of 'kikkinn no kadai' (urgent task) and nominalization.
現代社会における複雑かつ多岐にわたる課題に対処するためには、単に専門知識を習得させるだけでなく、批判的・創造的思考力を涵養し、倫理観に基づいた意思決定能力を養成することが不可欠である。
To address the complex and multifaceted challenges of modern society, it is indispensable not only to impart specialized knowledge but also to foster critical and creative thinking skills and cultivate decision-making abilities based on ethical principles.
Highly sophisticated vocabulary, complex nominalizations, and abstract concepts.
教育学の観点からは、学習者の内発的動機づけを最大限に引き出し、生涯にわたる学習意欲を涵養するとともに、変化する社会情勢に対応できる柔軟な思考力と適応能力を養成することが、教育の究極的な目標と見なされるべきである。
From the perspective of pedagogy, it should be considered the ultimate goal of education to draw out learners' intrinsic motivation to the fullest, foster a lifelong desire for learning, and cultivate flexible thinking and adaptability to respond to changing social conditions.
Extensive use of abstract nouns, sophisticated verb conjugations, and philosophical undertones.
グローバル・ガバナンスの確立を目指す国際社会において、異文化間の相互理解を深め、共通の価値観を醸成し、平和的共存を可能にするリーダーシップ能力を養成することは、喫緊の課題であり、あらゆるステークホルダーの協力が求められる。
In the international community aiming for the establishment of global governance, cultivating leadership capabilities that deepen mutual understanding between different cultures, foster common values, and enable peaceful coexistence is an urgent issue, requiring the cooperation of all stakeholders.
Complex sentence structure with multiple adverbial phrases, abstract concepts, and formal diction.
AIと人間の協働が不可欠となる未来を見据え、人間固有の創造性、共感性、そして倫理的判断力を高度に養成すると同時に、AIとの効果的なインターフェース能力を涵養することが、新たな社会システム構築の鍵となるであろう。
Looking towards a future where collaboration between AI and humans is indispensable, it will likely be the key to constructing new societal systems to highly cultivate uniquely human creativity, empathy, and ethical judgment, while simultaneously fostering effective interface capabilities with AI.
Complex sentence with future predictions, parallel structures, and advanced vocabulary.
持続可能な開発目標（SDGs）の達成に向けた取り組みを加速させるためには、環境保全、社会包摂、経済的公正といった多角的な視点を統合的に理解し、それらを実践に移すための変革的リーダーシップを養成することが、教育機関および企業に課せられた責務である。
To accelerate efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is the responsibility imposed on educational institutions and corporations to integrally understand multifaceted perspectives such as environmental conservation, social inclusion, and economic justice, and to cultivate transformative leadership to put them into practice.
Extensive use of specific terminology (SDGs), abstract nouns, and complex grammatical structures.
現代の芸術界においては、伝統的な技法や概念の継承のみならず、既存の枠組みを打破し、新たな美的価値を創造する先駆的なアーティストを養成することが、芸術の進歩と発展を促進する上で極めて重要視されている。
In today's art world, it is considered extremely important for promoting the progress and development of art to cultivate pioneering artists who break existing frameworks and create new aesthetic values, not just inherit traditional techniques and concepts.
Complex sentence with comparative clauses, emphasis on 'breaking frameworks,' and formal academic tone.
科学技術の急速な進歩は、人類に未曾有の恩恵をもたらす一方で、倫理的・社会的な課題をも内包しており、これらの課題に対して的確に対処しうる高度な分析能力と倫理観を養成することが、教育の新たな責務となっている。
While the rapid advancement of science and technology brings unprecedented benefits to humanity, it also encompasses ethical and social challenges, and cultivating advanced analytical abilities and ethical judgment that can accurately address these issues has become a new responsibility of education.
Complex sentence with contrasting elements, abstract nouns, and formal academic tone.
組織の持続的な成長と競争優位性を確保するためには、従業員のエンゲージメントを高め、イノベーションを奨励する組織文化を醸成するとともに、変化に柔軟に対応し、新たな課題を機会として捉えることのできるリーダーシップ能力を養成することが不可欠である。
To ensure the sustainable growth and competitive advantage of an organization, it is indispensable to foster an organizational culture that enhances employee engagement and encourages innovation, while simultaneously cultivating leadership capabilities that can flexibly respond to change and perceive new challenges as opportunities.
Extensive use of abstract nouns, parallel structures, and sophisticated idiomatic expressions.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— This is a noun phrase directly related to 養成する, meaning 'human resource development' or 'talent cultivation.' It's a very common term in business and HR.
弊社では、積極的な人材育成に力を入れています。(heisha de wa, sekkyoku-teki na jinzai ikusei ni chikara o irete imasu.) - Our company is focusing on proactive human resource development.
— While not a fixed idiom, this phrase implies cultivating or developing something that will lead to a successful future, such as a person's potential or a nation's capabilities.
子供たちの可能性を信じ、彼らの将来を養成することが大切だ。(kodomo-tachi no kanōsei o shinji, karera no shōrai o yōsei suru koto ga taisetsu da.) - Believing in children's potential and cultivating their future is important.
— This phrase means 'skill development' or 'capability enhancement.' It's closely related to 養成する, as developing abilities is a core aspect of cultivation.
継続的な能力開発が、キャリアアップに繋がります。(keizoku-teki na nōryoku kaihatsu ga, kyaria appu ni tsunagarimasu.) - Continuous skill development leads to career advancement.
— This phrase means 'to train or cultivate the next generation,' often in the context of leadership, skills, or knowledge transfer.
この学校は、次世代を養成することを教育方針としています。(kono gakkō wa, jisedai o yōsei suru koto o kyōiku hōshin to shite imasu.) - This school's educational policy is to cultivate the next generation.
— This means 'to train professionals' or 'to cultivate experts' in a specific field.
専門学校では、即戦力となるプロフェッショナルを養成します。(senmon gakkō de wa, soku-senryoku to naru purofesshonaru o yōsei shimasu.) - Vocational schools train professionals who can be immediately effective.
— This means 'to cultivate one's sensibility' or 'to develop aesthetic appreciation.' It's often used in artistic or cultural contexts.
芸術に触れることで、豊かな感性を養成することができる。(geijutsu ni fureru koto de, yutaka na kansei o yōsei suru koto ga dekiru.) - By experiencing art, one can cultivate rich sensibilities.
— This means 'to develop leadership skills' or 'to cultivate leadership qualities.'
企業研修では、リーダーシップを養成するためのプログラムが用意されています。(kigyō kenshū de wa, rīdāshippu o yōsei suru tame no puroguramu ga yōi sarete imasu.) - Corporate training programs are available to develop leadership skills.
— This means 'to cultivate both mind and body,' emphasizing holistic development.
スポーツを通じて、心身を養成することは大切です。(supōtsu o tsūjite, shinshin o yōsei suru koto wa taisetsu desu.) - It is important to cultivate both mind and body through sports.
— This means 'to foster potential abilities' or 'to cultivate latent capabilities.'
教師は、生徒の潜在能力を養成する役割を担う。(kyōshi wa, seito no senzai nōryoku o yōsei suru yakuwari o ninau.) - Teachers play a role in fostering students' potential abilities.
— This means 'to train personnel who will carry the next generation,' emphasizing their future role and responsibility.
国は、次代を担う人材を養成するための投資を増やすべきだ。(kuni wa, jidai o ninau jinzai o yōsei suru tame no tōshi o fuyasu beki da.) - The country should increase investment to train personnel who will carry the next generation.
Often Confused With
育てる is more general for 'raising' (children, pets, plants), focusing on overall growth and care. 養成する implies a more structured, goal-oriented development of specific skills or potential.
訓練する focuses on rigorous practice and discipline for specific tasks (athletes, soldiers). 養成する is broader, about fostering overall potential and development.
教育する is 'to educate' broadly, encompassing schooling and moral upbringing. 養成する is often a part of education, focusing on specific skill or potential development.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'greenhouse-grown,' this idiom describes someone who is pampered, sheltered, and lacks real-world experience or resilience, much like a plant grown in a controlled environment. While it uses 'sodachi' (a form of sodateru), it relates to the idea of 'over-nurturing' without the rigor implied by 養成する.
彼は温室育ちだから、少しの困難にも耐えられない。(kare wa onshitsu sodachi da kara, sukoshi no konnan ni mo taerarenai.) - He's had a sheltered upbringing, so he can't endure even a little difficulty.
Informal— This refers to 'gifted education' or 'educating prodigies.' It's about nurturing exceptionally talented children from a young age, often with intensive programs, which is a specific form of 養成する.
英才教育は、子供の才能を最大限に伸ばすことを目指す。(eisai kyōiku wa, kodomo no sainō o saidaigen ni nobasu koto o mezashu.) - Gifted education aims to maximize a child's talent.
Neutral/Formal— This means 'to become a competent person' or 'to become an adult/professional.' The process of becoming 一人前 often involves being trained or cultivated using 養成する.
親方は弟子を一人前に育てる。(oyakata wa deshi o ichininmae ni sodateru.) - The master craftsman trains his apprentice to become fully competent.
Neutral— Literally 'to put (something) on one's own salt,' this idiom means to personally and carefully nurture or bring up something or someone, taking great pains. It emphasizes the dedicated effort in cultivation, closely aligning with the spirit of 養成する.
長年、このプロジェクトを手塩にかけて育ててきた。(naganen, kono purojekuto o teshio ni kakete sodatete kita.) - I have personally nurtured this project for many years.
Neutral/Literary— Literally 'to sow seeds,' this idiom refers to starting something that will grow and develop over time. It's about initiating a process that will lead to future growth, similar to the foundational aspect of 養成する.
未来のために、今、教育の種をまく必要がある。(mirai no tame ni, ima, kyōiku no tane o maku hitsuyō ga aru.) - For the future, we need to sow the seeds of education now.
Neutral— Literally 'to build a foundation,' this idiom means to lay the groundwork for future development or success. The process of 養成する often involves building such a foundation.
成功のためには、しっかりとした礎を築くことが不可欠だ。(seikō no tame ni wa, shikkari to shita ishizue o kizuku koto ga fukaketsu da.) - To succeed, it is essential to build a solid foundation.
Neutral/Formal— Literally 'to sprout,' this idiom refers to the initial stage of growth or development, where potential begins to emerge. It's the beginning of what 養成する aims to foster.
彼の才能がついに芽を出し始めた。(kare no sainō ga tsui ni me o dashi hajimeta.) - His talent has finally begun to sprout.
Neutral— Literally 'to bear fruit,' this idiom means for efforts to yield results or for a project to be successful. The ultimate goal of 養成する is often for efforts to 実を結ぶ.
長年の努力が、ついに実を結んだ。(naganen no doryoku ga, tsui ni mi o musunda.) - Years of effort have finally borne fruit.
Neutral— Literally 'to make something one's flesh and blood,' this idiom means to internalize knowledge or skills so thoroughly that they become a part of oneself. This is the deep level of development achieved through effective 養成する.
学んだ知識を血肉とするまで努力する。(mananda chishiki o chiniku to suru made doryoku suru.) - Strive until the learned knowledge becomes part of your being.
Neutral/Formal— Literally 'to become a cornerstone,' this idiom means to be foundational or essential for something's success or existence. The training provided by 養成する often serves as the 礎石 for future achievements.
彼の貢献は、このプロジェクトの礎石となった。(kare no kōken wa, kono purojekuto no soseki to natta.) - His contribution became the cornerstone of this project.
FormalEasily Confused
Both 養成する and 育成する mean 'to cultivate' or 'to foster development.' They are often used interchangeably.
While very similar, 養成する might lean slightly more towards developing human skills, talent, or character in a structured way (e.g., training professionals). 育成する can sometimes have a stronger connotation of nurturing biological growth (like plants or animals) or systematic development (like a project or a company's growth), though it's also used for young talent.
子供の才能を養成する (kodomo no sainō o yōsei suru) vs. 新しい品種を育成する (atarashii hinshu o ikusei suru).
Both verbs involve growth and development.
育てる is a general term for 'raising' or 'nurturing' living things (children, pets, plants) or fostering general well-being. 養成する implies a more deliberate, often professional or academic, process aimed at developing specific skills, talents, or qualities for a particular purpose. You 'raise' a child (子供を育てる) but 'cultivate' a child's talent for music (子供の音楽の才能を養成する).
子供を育てる (kodomo o sodateru) - To raise a child. 才能を養成する (sainō o yōsei suru) - To cultivate talent.
Both verbs involve training.
訓練する specifically refers to rigorous practice, drill, or conditioning to achieve a specific skill or proficiency, often in demanding contexts like sports, military, or animal training. 養成する is broader, focusing on fostering overall potential, character, and skills, often in educational or professional settings, and it's not necessarily about intense drill.
選手を訓練する (senshu o kunren suru) - To train athletes (through drills). 選手を養成する (senshu o yōsei suru) - To train/develop athletes (holistically).
Both involve guiding development.
指導する means 'to guide,' 'to instruct,' or 'to lead,' focusing on providing direction and advice. 養成する is the entire process of fostering development, which includes guidance but also encompasses creating an environment for growth, nurturing potential, and structured learning. Guidance is a part of cultivation, but cultivation is the whole process.
先生が生徒を指導する (sensei ga seito o shidō suru) - The teacher guides the student. 学校が学生を養成する (gakkō ga gakusei o yōsei suru) - The school cultivates students.
Both can involve 'development.'
開発する typically means 'to develop' in the sense of creating something new (software, products, infrastructure), exploring resources, or improving existing systems/products. 養成する is about developing potential *within* existing entities (people, skills, talents) to make them mature or proficient.
新しいアプリを開発する (atarashii apuri o kaihatsu suru) - To develop a new app. 人材を養成する (jinzai o yōsei suru) - To train/develop human resources.
Sentence Patterns
[Noun] を 養成する。
会社は新しいリーダーを養成する。
[Noun] を 養成する こと を 目指す。
この学校は、将来のエンジニアを養成することを目指しています。
[Noun] を 養成する 責任がある。
大学は、社会で活躍できる人材を養成する責任があります。
[Noun] を 養成する こと は 重要だ。
子供たちの創造性を養成することは、教育において非常に重要です。
[Noun] を 養成する ための 戦略を練る。
企業は、変化に対応できる人材を養成するための戦略を練る必要がある。
[Noun] が 養成される。
このプログラムは、次世代のリーダーを養成するように設計されています。
[Noun] を 養成すること は 不可欠である。
異文化間コミュニケーション能力に長けた人材を養成することは、国際社会の発展に不可欠である。
[Noun] を 養成する 方向へと転換すべきである。
教育システムは、学習者の潜在能力を養成する方向へと転換すべきである。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Medium-High, especially in contexts related to education, career development, and skill acquisition.
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Using 養成する for general raising of children or pets.
→
育てる (sodateru) is more appropriate for general nurturing and upbringing.
養成する implies a more structured and goal-oriented development of specific skills or potential, often in an academic or professional context. 育てる is for general care and growth.
-
Confusing 養成する with 訓練する when the context is not rigorous drill.
→
Use 養成する for broader development of potential and skills, and 訓練する for intensive practice and conditioning.
訓練する focuses on specific skills through repetition and discipline (e.g., athletes, soldiers), whereas 養成する is about fostering overall potential and character in a more developmental sense.
-
Using 養成する for creating new things or products.
→
Use 開発する (kaihatsu suru) for developing new products, software, or infrastructure.
養成する is about developing potential *within* existing entities (people, skills), while 開発する is about creating something new or improving existing systems/products.
-
Applying 養成する to inanimate objects without a clear sense of 'potential development'.
→
Ensure the context implies fostering growth or developing specific qualities, not just making or building.
While 養成する can be used for abstract concepts, it generally requires a sense of potential being nurtured. For simple creation or construction, other verbs are more suitable.
-
Overlooking the nuance of deliberate and structured effort.
→
Emphasize the intentionality and systematic nature of the cultivation process when using 養成する.
The verb implies a conscious, sustained effort to foster growth and achieve a specific outcome, distinguishing it from passive growth or simple teaching.
Tips
Connect to Similar Verbs
When learning 養成する, also review 育てる (sodateru), 訓練する (kunren suru), and 育成する (ikusei suru). Understanding their subtle differences will help you choose the most appropriate verb for each context and deepen your comprehension.
Master the Particle 'を'
養成する is a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object. Practice forming sentences using the particle を (o) to clearly indicate what is being cultivated, e.g., 'スキルを養成する' (to cultivate skills).
Read About Development Programs
Seek out articles or websites discussing educational programs, corporate training, or talent development in Japan. Observing how 養成する is used in these real-world contexts will significantly improve your understanding.
Create Your Own Sentences
Don't just memorize definitions. Write your own sentences using 養成する, perhaps describing how you want to develop a skill, or how a fictional character cultivates their talent. This active recall is crucial for retention.
Focus on 'Yōsei'
Pay attention to the pronunciation of 'yōsei.' Ensure the 'yō' has a long vowel sound and the 'sei' is pronounced clearly. Practice saying it aloud, perhaps in common phrases like '才能を養成する'.
Understand the Value of Nurturing
Japanese culture often values dedication, long-term effort, and the meticulous nurturing of skills and talent. Understanding this cultural backdrop can help you appreciate why 養成する is such an important verb.
Avoid Overuse with Children/Pets
Remember that while 養成する means 'to nurture,' it's generally reserved for more structured development of skills or potential, especially in humans. For raising children or pets, 育てる (sodateru) is the more natural and common verb.
Distinguish from 訓練する
While both mean 'to train,' 訓練する implies rigorous practice and drill for specific tasks. 養成する is broader, focusing on fostering overall potential and development. Think of 訓練する as intense practice, and 養成する as holistic cultivation.
Use in Goal Setting
Frame your personal or professional goals using 養成する. For example, 'I aim to 養成する my public speaking skills this year.' This makes the verb feel more relevant to your own life.
Regularly Revisit
Like any vocabulary, 養成する needs regular review. Revisit its definition, examples, and related words periodically to ensure it remains fresh in your memory.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a young plant (養 - yō) that needs careful watering and sunlight to grow strong and mature (成 - sei). You are the gardener, actively nurturing it. Think of 'Yōsei' as 'Your Seed' that you meticulously help to grow and 'Sei'-cefully blossom.
Visual Association
Picture a gardener carefully tending to a small sapling in a greenhouse. The gardener is providing nourishment and support (養 - yō), and the sapling is growing taller and stronger, eventually becoming a mature tree (成 - sei).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 養成する in three different sentences today, each describing a different type of cultivation – perhaps one for a skill, one for a person's potential, and one for an abstract quality like creativity. Focus on using the particle を correctly with the object being cultivated.
Word Origin
The verb 養成する is composed of two kanji: 養 (yō) and 成 (sei). The kanji 養 (yō) means 'to nourish,' 'to support,' 'to raise,' or 'to foster.' It carries connotations of providing sustenance and care for growth. The kanji 成 (sei) means 'to become,' 'to complete,' 'to succeed,' or 'to grow.' Together, 養 (yō) + 成 (sei) literally means 'to nourish and make complete/grow.' This combination perfectly encapsulates the meaning of actively cultivating and developing something to its full potential.
Original meaning: The kanji 養 (yō) originally depicted a person holding a child, emphasizing nurturing and care. 成 (sei) depicts something growing or maturing. The combined meaning is thus strongly rooted in the idea of providing care and support for growth and completion.
Sino-Japanese (Kanji origins)Cultural Context
The term 養成する is generally neutral and positive, implying constructive development. However, like any verb related to training, the context and the method of training are crucial. Unethical or overly harsh training methods could make the use of this verb problematic, but the word itself is not inherently negative.
In English, we might use phrases like 'to train,' 'to cultivate talent,' 'to foster development,' or 'to nurture potential.' The Japanese term 養成する often carries a deeper sense of structured, long-term development, especially in professional or academic contexts, which might require more specific English phrasing depending on the nuance.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Education and Academia
- 学生を養成する
- 才能を養成する
- 専門家を養成する
- 次世代リーダーを養成する
Business and Corporate Training
- 人材を養成する
- 従業員を養成する
- リーダーシップを養成する
- 企業文化を養成する
Sports and Athletics
- 選手を養成する
- アスリートを養成する
- チームを養成する
Arts and Culture
- 芸術家を養成する
- 感性を養成する
- 創造性を養成する
Personal Development
- 能力を養成する
- 人間性を養成する
- 自己成長を養成する
Conversation Starters
"What kind of skills do you think are most important to cultivate in today's world?"
"How do you believe educational institutions should approach fostering talent?"
"In your opinion, what makes a good leader, and how can those qualities be developed?"
"What are some effective methods for nurturing creativity in children or adults?"
"When a company invests in training its employees, what are the key goals they aim to achieve?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a time when someone helped to cultivate your skills or potential. How did their guidance influence your development?
Consider a skill or talent you wish to develop further. What steps could you take to actively cultivate it, and what challenges might you face?
Write about the importance of fostering leadership qualities in young people. What specific actions can be taken to nurture future leaders?
Describe a situation where a structured training program was essential for achieving a specific goal. What made the program effective in cultivating the necessary skills?
Explore the idea of nurturing one's own personal growth. What does it mean to 'cultivate oneself,' and what are the benefits of such a process?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions養成する implies a more deliberate, structured, and often professional or academic process of cultivating specific skills, talent, or potential for a particular outcome. 育てる is a broader term for general nurturing and raising, like children, pets, or plants, focusing on overall growth and well-being.
While technically possible, it's less common and might sound overly formal. For animals, 訓練する (kunren suru - to train) or しつける (shitsukeru - to discipline/train in manners) are more usual. For plants, 育てる (sodateru - to grow/raise) is the standard verb. 養成する is primarily used for human development of skills, talent, or character.
The passive form 養成される (yōsei sareru) is used when the focus is on the person or thing being trained or cultivated, rather than the trainer. For example, '優秀な人材が養成される' (yūshū na jinzai ga yōsei sareru) means 'excellent personnel are cultivated.'
養成する is generally considered neutral to formal. It is very common in educational, corporate, and professional contexts. In very casual conversations, simpler verbs might be preferred, but it is not considered overly stiff.
You can 養成する skills (技術), talent (才能), potential (能力), character (人格), professionals (専門家), athletes (選手), leaders (リーダー), artists (芸術家), and generally human resources (人材).
The noun form is 養成 (yōsei), which means 'training,' 'cultivation,' or 'development.' For example, 人材養成 (jinzai yōsei) means 'human resource development.'
開発する means 'to develop' in the sense of creating something new (like software or a product) or improving existing systems. 養成する is about developing the potential or skills *within* people or existing entities.
訓練する emphasizes rigorous practice and drill for specific tasks (like sports or military). 養成する is broader, focusing on fostering overall potential, character, and skills in a more holistic, developmental manner, often in educational or professional settings.
Yes, 養成する can be used for abstract concepts like creativity (創造性 - sōzōsei) or sensibility (感性 - kansei), meaning to actively foster or cultivate them.
Common phrases include '才能を養成する' (to cultivate talent), '人材を養成する' (to train personnel), and 'リーダーを養成する' (to cultivate leaders).
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Summary
養成する (yōsei suru) is a verb meaning to deliberately train, cultivate, or foster the development of skills, talent, character, or potential, often within a structured educational or professional context. It signifies a sustained effort to nurture growth and achieve a desired outcome.
- Active training and nurturing for development.
- Focuses on cultivating skills, talent, or potential.
- Implies a deliberate, often structured process.
- Used in education, business, and personal growth contexts.
Connect to Similar Verbs
When learning 養成する, also review 育てる (sodateru), 訓練する (kunren suru), and 育成する (ikusei suru). Understanding their subtle differences will help you choose the most appropriate verb for each context and deepen your comprehension.
Master the Particle 'を'
養成する is a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object. Practice forming sentences using the particle を (o) to clearly indicate what is being cultivated, e.g., 'スキルを養成する' (to cultivate skills).
Read About Development Programs
Seek out articles or websites discussing educational programs, corporate training, or talent development in Japan. Observing how 養成する is used in these real-world contexts will significantly improve your understanding.
Create Your Own Sentences
Don't just memorize definitions. Write your own sentences using 養成する, perhaps describing how you want to develop a skill, or how a fictional character cultivates their talent. This active recall is crucial for retention.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
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.
