A single word representing the smallest unit of meaning in language.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A single unit of meaning in a language.
- Essential for building vocabulary and language proficiency.
- Commonly used in educational settings and dictionary references.
Overview
- 1概要：「単語」は、日本語の語彙を形成する最も基本的な要素です。文法的な機能を持つ助詞や助動詞とは異なり、それ自体で意味を持つ名詞、動詞、形容詞などを指します。2) 使用パターン：「単語を覚える」「単語を調べる」「単語を並べる」といった形で動詞と組み合わせて使われます。また、「単語帳」や「単語テスト」のように、学習ツールや試験の文脈で頻繁に登場します。3) 一般的な文脈：学校の英語学習や日本語学習の現場で、語彙力を高めるための学習対象として最もよく使われる言葉です。日常会話では「言葉（ことば）」と言うことも多いですが、学習の文脈では「単語」が好まれます。4) 類似語との比較：「言葉」はより広い意味（文や言語全体を含む）を持ちますが、「単語」はより限定的で、辞書に載っている一つひとつの見出し語を指す際に適しています。
Examples
この単語の意味を調べてください。
everydayPlease look up the meaning of this word.
専門的な単語を避けて説明してください。
formalPlease explain without using technical terms.
単語帳を買ったけれど、全然やってない。
informalI bought a vocabulary book, but I haven't used it at all.
論文には学術的な単語が多く含まれている。
academicThe paper contains many academic terms.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
単語帳
vocabulary book
英単語
English vocabulary word
単語テスト
vocabulary test
Often Confused With
Kotoba refers to language or speech in a general sense, while Tango refers specifically to a single vocabulary item.
Jukugo refers to compound words or idioms, whereas Tango is a single word.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word 'tango' is almost exclusively used in educational or linguistic contexts. In casual conversation, people prefer 'kotoba' when referring to words or language in general. It is a neutral term but sounds slightly academic.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'tango' to refer to a whole sentence, which is incorrect. Remember that 'tango' strictly refers to a single word. Do not confuse it with 'bun' (sentence).
Tips
Use flashcards for better vocabulary retention
Create digital or paper flashcards to review words frequently. This helps in active recall and long-term memory.
Avoid memorizing words in isolation
Always learn words within the context of a sentence. This ensures you understand how to use them correctly in grammar.
The importance of vocabulary in Japan
In Japan, students spend significant time memorizing vocabulary for entrance exams. This reflects the high value placed on academic preparation.
Word Origin
The term comes from Chinese characters: 'tan' (single) and 'go' (word). Together, they define a single lexical item.
Cultural Context
Vocabulary building is a central pillar of the Japanese education system. Students often carry 'tango-cho' (vocabulary books) on trains to study during their commute.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Tan-go' as a 'Tangible' unit of language. It is a single piece you can hold in your mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions「言葉」は会話や文章全体を指す広い意味を持ちますが、「単語」は辞書に載っている一つひとつの語を指す専門的・学習的な用語です。
単語帳を使うだけでなく、例文と一緒に覚えたり、実際の会話で使ってみたりすることが効果的です。また、反復学習が記憶定着の鍵となります。
「単語」は一つの語ですが、「熟語」は二つ以上の単語が組み合わさって一つの意味を持つようになったものです。
学習の文脈では非常に頻繁に使いますが、日常会話では「この言葉の意味は何？」のように「言葉」を使うことの方が多いです。
Test Yourself
毎日新しい___を5つずつ覚えることにした。
学習の対象として最も適切なのは「単語」です。
単語とは何ですか？
単語は言語の構成要素である最小単位です。
（テストで / 難しい / たくさんの / 単語 / 出た）
自然な日本語の語順として「テストで難しい単語がたくさん出た」が適切です。
Score: /3
Summary
A single word representing the smallest unit of meaning in language.
- A single unit of meaning in a language.
- Essential for building vocabulary and language proficiency.
- Commonly used in educational settings and dictionary references.
Use flashcards for better vocabulary retention
Create digital or paper flashcards to review words frequently. This helps in active recall and long-term memory.
Avoid memorizing words in isolation
Always learn words within the context of a sentence. This ensures you understand how to use them correctly in grammar.
The importance of vocabulary in Japan
In Japan, students spend significant time memorizing vocabulary for entrance exams. This reflects the high value placed on academic preparation.
Examples
4 of 4この単語の意味を調べてください。
Please look up the meaning of this word.
専門的な単語を避けて説明してください。
Please explain without using technical terms.
単語帳を買ったけれど、全然やってない。
I bought a vocabulary book, but I haven't used it at all.
論文には学術的な単語が多く含まれている。
The paper contains many academic terms.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Vocabulary
More education words
欠席する
A2To be absent.
抽象的
A1Describes something that is based on general ideas or concepts rather than specific physical objects or examples. It is often used to talk about thoughts, art, or explanations that are not easy to see or touch.
後天的
B2Refers to qualities, skills, or traits acquired through experience, learning, or environmental influence after birth.
応用
A1The act of applying a principle, theory, or knowledge to a practical situation or a different context. It is commonly used in education and science to describe moving from basic concepts to complex, real-world problems.
適性
B2A natural ability or suitability for a specific role, task, or academic path. It refers to the fitness of an individual's character or skills to a certain environment.
恣意的
B2Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system. Often used in academic writing to criticize research methods or data selection.
出席する
A2To attend.
ボールペン
A2ballpoint pen
基本
A1Kihon refers to the fundamentals or basics of a subject, skill, or system. it describes the essential foundation that one must master before advancing to more complex levels.
有益
B2Being useful, beneficial, or profitable. It describes something that brings a positive effect or helps in achieving a goal.
