青少年 in 30 Seconds
- Seishōnen (青少年) means youth, young people transitioning from childhood to adulthood.
- It's a formal term used in official, academic, and news contexts.
- Covers adolescence and early adulthood, distinct from children and adults.
- Often discusses issues like development, education, and social trends.
Understanding 青少年 (Seishōnen)
- Core Meaning
- The Japanese word 青少年 (seishōnen) refers to young people who are no longer children but have not yet reached full adulthood. It's a broad term encompassing the period of adolescence and early adulthood, typically from around the age of puberty up to the early twenties. The kanji 青 (ao) literally means 'blue' or 'green,' often symbolizing youth, freshness, and immaturity, while 少 (shō) means 'few' or 'young,' and 年 (nen) means 'year' or 'person.' Together, they paint a picture of 'young years' or 'young individuals.'
- Usage Contexts
- This term is frequently encountered in formal and semi-formal contexts, such as news reports, government policies, educational materials, and sociological studies. It's used to discuss issues, trends, and statistics related to this demographic group. For instance, you might see it in discussions about juvenile delinquency, youth employment, education reforms targeting young people, or even in marketing campaigns aimed at a younger audience. It's a way to refer to this age group collectively and impersonally, distinguishing them from children (子供 - kodomo) and adults (大人 - otona).
- Nuance and Connotation
- While primarily descriptive, 青少年 can sometimes carry a subtle connotation of potential or vulnerability. Because this is a transitional phase of life, society often focuses on the development, guidance, and challenges faced by this group. It's a period where individuals are forming their identities, making important life decisions, and navigating complex social landscapes. Therefore, discussions involving 青少年 often revolve around their future, their rights, their responsibilities, and the support systems available to them. It's important to note that it's a more formal term than casual words like 若者 (wakamono), which also means 'young people' but can be used more broadly and informally.
The government is implementing new programs to support the 青少年 (seishōnen) in their career development.
Understanding the challenges faced by 青少年 (seishōnen) is crucial for building a better future.
- Age Range
- Generally, 青少年 covers individuals from their early teens (around 13-15) up to their early twenties (around 19-22). This period is characterized by significant physical, emotional, and social development.
- Formal vs. Informal
- It's important to distinguish 青少年 from more casual terms. For instance, 若者 (wakamono) also means 'young people' but is often used in everyday conversation. 青少年 carries a more official or academic tone.
The report highlighted the impact of social media on 青少年 (seishōnen) mental health.
Applying 青少年 in Context
- Formal Discussions
- In formal writing and speeches, 青少年 is used to refer to the demographic group when discussing policies, statistics, or societal issues. For example, a government official might state, 「政府は青少年の健全な育成のための施策を推進しています。」 (Seifu wa seishōnen no kenen na ikusei no tame no shisaku o suishin shite imasu.) This translates to 'The government is promoting policies for the healthy development of youth.' Here, 青少年 clearly indicates the target group for these governmental initiatives.
- Educational Contexts
- In educational settings, the term might appear in discussions about curriculum development, student welfare, or extracurricular activities. A school administrator might say, 「青少年の読書習慣を育むことは、教育における重要な課題です。」 (Seishōnen no dokusho shūkan o hagukumu koto wa, kyōiku ni okeru jūyō na kadai desu.) meaning 'Fostering reading habits among youth is an important issue in education.' This highlights the academic and developmental focus associated with the term.
- Sociological and Psychological Discussions
- When discussing social trends or psychological development, 青少年 is the standard term. A researcher might publish findings like, 「現代の青少年は、情報化社会の影響を強く受けている。」 (Gendai no seishōnen wa, jōhōka shakai no eikyō o tsuyoku ukete iru.) which means 'Today's youth are strongly influenced by the information society.' This sentence uses 青少年 to represent the entire cohort being studied.
- Legal and Policy Frameworks
- In legal contexts, such as discussions about juvenile law or protection, 青少年 is the appropriate term. For example, 「青少年保護条例」 (Seishōnen Hogo Jōrei) translates to 'Youth Protection Ordinance.' This clearly indicates the legal scope of the term.
- General References
- Even in general news reporting, when referring to a group of young people in a formal or objective manner, 青少年 is preferred. For instance, 「青少年の失業率が上昇している。」 (Seishōnen no shitsugyō ritsu ga jōshō shite iru.) meaning 'The unemployment rate for youth is rising.' This usage is common when presenting statistics or trends.
The 青少年 (seishōnen) are the future leaders of our society.
Real-World Applications of 青少年
- News Broadcasts and Newspapers
- You will frequently encounter 青少年 (seishōnen) in news reports discussing topics relevant to young people. For example, a headline might read: 「青少年のインターネット利用に関する調査結果」 (Seishōnen no intānetto riyō ni kansuru chōsa kekka), meaning 'Survey results regarding youth internet usage.' This term is standard for objective reporting on this demographic.
- Government Publications and Policy Documents
- Official documents, white papers, and policy proposals from ministries and local governments often use 青少年. For instance, a document outlining strategies for youth employment might be titled 「青少年の雇用機会拡大策」 (Seishōnen no koyō kikai kakudai saku), 'Measures to Expand Employment Opportunities for Youth.' This signifies the formal and administrative usage of the word.
- Academic and Research Papers
- In academic research related to sociology, psychology, education, and criminology, 青少年 is the standard term for the age group being studied. A paper on juvenile delinquency might be titled 「青少年犯罪の要因分析」 (Seishōnen hanzai no yōin bunseki), 'Analysis of Factors in Youth Crime.' This shows its usage in a specialized, analytical context.
- Educational Materials
- Textbooks and educational resources often use 青少年 when discussing societal roles, civic education, or health topics relevant to adolescents. A social studies textbook might have a section on 「青少年の権利と義務」 (Seishōnen no kenri to gimu), 'Rights and Responsibilities of Youth.' This indicates its use in formal learning environments.
- Public Service Announcements
- Public service announcements aimed at or concerning young people might employ this term. For example, a campaign promoting healthy lifestyles could feature the phrase 「青少年の健康的な生活」 (Seishōnen no kenkōteki na seikatsu), 'Healthy Living for Youth.' This demonstrates its use in conveying important societal messages.
- Legal and Judicial Contexts
- Laws and regulations pertaining to minors, such as those related to employment, curfews, or protection, will use 青少年. For instance, 「青少年育成条例」 (Seishōnen Ikusei Jōrei), meaning 'Youth Development Ordinance,' is a common legal term.
News reports often discuss the impact of social media on 青少年 (seishōnen).
Avoiding Pitfalls with 青少年
- Overuse in Casual Conversation
- A common mistake for learners is using 青少年 (seishōnen) in everyday, informal conversations. While it technically means 'youth,' it sounds overly formal or even slightly bureaucratic in casual settings. For instance, saying 「私の青少年時代は楽しかった。」 (Watashi no seishōnen jidai wa tanoshikatta.) - 'My youth period was fun.' - sounds unnatural. In such a context, 若者 (wakamono) or even just referring to the specific age group (e.g., １０代 - jūdai, 'teens') would be more appropriate.
- Confusing with 若者 (Wakamono)
- Learners sometimes confuse 青少年 with 若者 (wakamono), which also means 'young people.' The key difference lies in formality and nuance. 若者 is a broader, more general term used in everyday speech and can refer to a wider age range within youth. 青少年 is more specific, formal, and often used in official, academic, or sociological contexts. Using 青少年 when talking about a group of friends in a bar would be inappropriate, whereas 若者 would fit perfectly.
- Misinterpreting the Age Range
- While generally understood as adolescence and early adulthood, the precise age range for 青少年 can be fluid depending on the context. Some might mistakenly assume it strictly means 'teenagers' (13-19). However, it often extends into the early twenties, especially in policy or sociological discussions where 'young adulthood' is included. For example, a program aimed at university students might still refer to them as part of the 青少年 demographic.
- Using it for Individual Young People
- 青少年のためのワークショップ (Seishōnen no tame no wākushōppu) - 'Workshop for youth' - is correct because it refers to the group. However, saying 「彼は青少年です。」 (Kare wa seishōnen desu.) - 'He is a youth.' - sounds awkward. It's better to use terms like 若者 (wakamono) or describe their specific age if referring to an individual.
- Ignoring Compound Word Potential
- While 青少年 itself is a noun, it commonly forms compound words that are important to recognize. Forgetting these can lead to misunderstandings. For example, 青少年犯罪 (seishōnen hanzai - juvenile delinquency) or 青少年問題 (seishōnen mondai - youth issues) are common phrases. Failing to recognize these compounds means missing key vocabulary related to the topic.
Avoid using 青少年 (seishōnen) in casual conversation; 若者 (wakamono) is usually more appropriate.
Exploring Synonyms and Related Terms
- 若者 (Wakamono)
- Comparison: 若者 (wakamono) is the most common general term for 'young people.' It's more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it leans towards the informal. While 青少年 often implies a specific developmental stage and is used in official contexts, 若者 is a broader descriptor for anyone young.
Usage: 「このプロジェクトは若者の意見を多く取り入れています。」 (Kono purojekuto wa wakamono no iken o ōku toriirete imasu.) - 'This project incorporates many opinions from young people.'
Distinction: Use 青少年 for official reports, statistics, or academic discussions about the group; use 若者 for general conversation or when referring to young people as a demographic without strict age boundaries. - 青年 (Seinen)
- Comparison: 青年 (seinen) also means 'youth' or 'young man/woman.' It often implies a slightly older age range than 青少年, typically late teens to early thirties, and carries a connotation of maturity, readiness, or even potential leadership. It's frequently used in contexts related to young adults, such as 'young men's Christian association' (YMCA) or 'young entrepreneurs.'
Usage: 「彼は青年実業家として成功を収めた。」 (Kare wa seinen jitsugyōka to shite seikō o osameta.) - 'He achieved success as a young entrepreneur.'
Distinction: While 青少年 focuses on the developmental stage between childhood and adulthood, 青年 often emphasizes the active, mature phase of young adulthood. - ティーンエイジャー (Tīn'eijā)
- Comparison: This is a loanword directly from English, 'teenager.' It specifically refers to people aged 13 to 19. It's informal and commonly used in casual conversation, marketing, and media targeting this specific age group.
Usage: 「彼女はティーンエイジャー向けのファッション雑誌を読んでいる。」 (Kanojo wa tīn'eijā muke no fasshon zasshi o yonde iru.) - 'She is reading a fashion magazine for teenagers.'
Distinction: 青少年 is a much broader and more formal term, encompassing teenagers but also extending beyond them. ティーンエイジャー is precise for the 13-19 age bracket and informal. - 子供 (Kodomo)
- Comparison: 子供 (kodomo) means 'child' or 'children.' It refers to individuals before puberty or before entering the stage of 青少年.
Usage: 「子供の安全を守ることが最優先です。」 (Kodomo no anzen o mamoru koto ga saiyūsen desu.) - 'Protecting children's safety is the top priority.'
Distinction: 青少年 marks the transition away from childhood. It's crucial to distinguish between children and youth in Japanese terminology. - 若年層 (Jakunensō)
- Comparison: 若年層 (jakunensō) is a more technical or statistical term meaning 'younger generation' or 'younger age group.' It's often used in demographic analysis and marketing research, similar to 青少年 but perhaps even more data-oriented.
Usage: 「若年層の消費行動を分析する。」 (Jakunensō no shōhi kōdō o bunseki suru.) - 'Analyze the consumption behavior of the younger generation.'
Distinction: While 青少年 focuses on the developmental period, 若年層 is a broader category often used for statistical grouping.
While 若者 (wakamono) is general, 青少年 (seishōnen) is more formal and specific to the adolescent and early adult phase.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 青 (ao) meaning 'blue' or 'green' is used metaphorically here to represent the 'greenness' or immaturity associated with youth, similar to how 'green' can imply inexperience in English. The term became widely established in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Japan modernized and began to categorize its population more formally.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'sei' as 'say-ee' instead of a single syllable.
- Not lengthening the 'ō' sound in 'shō,' making it sound too short.
- Confusing the 'n' sound at the end with a separate syllable.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR B1 level, meaning it's accessible to intermediate learners. The kanji combination is common, and the term is frequently encountered in media and official contexts, aiding recognition.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Use of の (no) for possession/association.
青少年の権利 (rights of youth).
Use of を (o) as the direct object particle.
青少年を支援する (to support youth).
Use of に (ni) for indirect objects or targets.
青少年に対する援助 (aid to youth).
Use of ～にとって (~ni totte) meaning 'for' or 'to' (from a certain perspective).
青少年にとって大切なこと (things important for youth).
Formation of compound nouns with 青少年.
青少年 + 犯罪 = 青少年犯罪 (youth + crime = juvenile delinquency).
Examples by Level
これは青少年の公園です。
This is a park for youth.
The particle の indicates possession or association.
青少年は元気です。
The youth are energetic.
The topic particle は marks 青少年 as the subject.
青少年は本を読みます。
Youth read books.
The object particle を marks 本 as the direct object.
この建物は青少年の場所です。
This building is a place for youth.
です is the copula, similar to 'is' or 'are'.
青少年は楽しいです。
Youth are happy.
The adjective 楽しい (tanoshii) means fun or happy.
青少年の活動があります。
There are activities for youth.
あります indicates existence (for inanimate objects).
ここは青少年の広場です。
This is a plaza for youth.
広場 (hiroba) means plaza or open space.
青少年は勉強します。
Youth study.
勉強します (benkyō shimasu) means to study.
この地域には青少年のための施設が少ないです。
There are few facilities for youth in this area.
施設 (shisetsu) means facility. 少(すく)ない (sukunai) means few/little.
青少年の健全な育成が重要です。
The healthy development of youth is important.
健全な (kenzen na) is a na-adjective meaning healthy/sound. 育成 (ikusei) means development/nurturing.
青少年の職業について考えています。
I am thinking about the occupations of youth.
職業 (shoku-gyō) means occupation/profession. ～について考えています (ni tsuite kangaete imasu) means 'I am thinking about...'
この団体は青少年を支援しています。
This organization supports youth.
団体 (dantai) means organization. 支援する (shien suru) means to support.
青少年の間で人気の音楽です。
It is popular music among youth.
～の間で (no aida de) means 'among' or 'between'.
青少年の参加を促すイベントです。
This is an event to encourage participation from youth.
参加 (sanka) means participation. 促す (unagasu) means to encourage or urge.
この法律は青少年を保護するために作られました。
This law was made to protect youth.
保護する (hogo suru) means to protect. ～ために (tame ni) means 'in order to'.
青少年の読書キャンペーンが始まりました。
A reading campaign for youth has started.
読書 (dokusho) means reading. キャンペーン (kyanpēn) is campaign.
青少年の犯罪が増加している傾向がある。
There is a tendency for juvenile delinquency to be increasing.
犯罪 (hanzai) means crime/delinquency. 増加する (zōka suru) means to increase. 傾向がある (keikō ga aru) means there is a tendency.
この政策は青少年の自立を支援することを目的としている。
This policy aims to support the independence of youth.
政策 (seisaku) means policy. 自立 (jiritsu) means independence. 目的としている (mokuteki to shite iru) means aims to.
青少年のインターネットの過剰な利用が問題となっている。
Excessive internet use by youth has become a problem.
過剰な (kajō na) means excessive. 利用 (riyō) means use. 問題となっている (mondai to natte iru) means has become a problem.
学校は青少年に多様な経験を提供すべきだ。
Schools should provide diverse experiences for youth.
多様な (tayō na) means diverse. 経験 (keiken) means experience. 提供する (teikyō suru) means to provide. ～すべきだ (subeki da) means should.
現代の青少年は情報に敏感である。
Today's youth are sensitive to information.
情報 (jōhō) means information. 敏感である (binkan de aru) means to be sensitive.
青少年の社会への参加を促進する必要がある。
There is a need to promote the participation of youth in society.
社会 (shakai) means society. 参加 (sanka) means participation. 促進する (sokushin suru) means to promote. 必要がある (hitsuyō ga aru) means there is a need.
この問題は青少年の精神的な健康にも影響を与える。
This problem also affects the mental health of youth.
精神的な (seishinteki na) means mental/spiritual. 健康 (kenkō) means health. 影響を与える (eikyō o ataeru) means to affect/influence.
青少年の権利を守るための法律が整備されている。
Laws are being established to protect the rights of youth.
権利 (kenri) means rights. 守る (mamoru) means to protect. 整備されている (seibi sarete iru) means are being established/prepared.
現代社会における青少年の役割については、多様な議論が存在する。
There are various discussions regarding the role of youth in modern society.
役割 (yakuwari) means role. 議論 (giron) means discussion/debate. 存在する (sonzai suru) means to exist.
青少年のメンタルヘルス対策は、喫緊の課題であると認識されている。
Measures for youth mental health are recognized as an urgent issue.
メンタルヘルス (mentaru herusu) means mental health. 対策 (taisaku) means measures/countermeasures. 喫緊の課題 (kikkin no kadai) means urgent issue. 認識されている (ninshiki sarete iru) means are recognized.
グローバル化の進展は、青少年の価値観に多大な影響を与えている。
The progress of globalization is having a significant impact on the values of youth.
グローバル化 (gurōbaru-ka) means globalization. 進展 (shinten) means progress. 価値観 (kachikan) means values. 多大な (tadai na) means significant/great.
青少年の政治への関心を高めるための教育が不可欠である。
Education to raise the political interest of youth is indispensable.
政治 (seiji) means politics. 関心 (kanshin) means interest. 高める (takameru) means to raise/heighten. 不可欠である (fukaketsu de aru) means to be indispensable.
ソーシャルメディアは青少年のコミュニケーションスタイルに変革をもたらした。
Social media has brought about a transformation in the communication styles of youth.
コミュニケーションスタイル (komyunikēshon sutairu) means communication style. 変革をもたらした (henkaku o motarashita) means brought about a transformation.
青少年の経済的な自立を支援する施策が急務となっている。
Measures to support the economic independence of youth have become a pressing need.
経済的な (keizaiteki na) means economic. 自立 (jiritsu) means independence. 施策 (shisaku) means measure/policy. 急務となっている (kyūmu to natte iru) means has become a pressing need.
デジタルデバイドは青少年の学習機会に格差を生じさせている。
The digital divide is creating disparities in learning opportunities for youth.
デジタルデバイド (dejitaru debaido) means digital divide. 学習機会 (gakushū kikai) means learning opportunities. 格差を生じさせている (kakusa o shōji sasete iru) means is creating disparities.
青少年の健全な成長を促進するためには、多角的な支援が不可欠である。
Multifaceted support is essential for promoting the healthy growth of youth.
成長 (seichō) means growth. 多角的な (takakuteki na) means multifaceted. 支援 (shien) means support.
青少年のアイデンティティの形成における社会的・文化的な要因の複雑な相互作用を考察する。
To examine the complex interplay of social and cultural factors in the formation of youth identity.
アイデンティティ (aidentiti) means identity. 形成 (keisei) means formation. 要因 (yōin) means factor. 相互作用 (sōgo sayō) means interaction/interplay. 考察する (kōsatsu suru) means to examine/consider.
グローバル社会における青少年の主体性の涵養は、喫緊の教育的・社会的ミッションである。
Cultivating the agency of youth in a global society is an urgent educational and social mission.
主体性 (shutaisei) means agency/initiative. 涵養 (kan'yō) means cultivation/fostering. ミッション (misshon) means mission.
青少年が直面する多岐にわたる課題に対峙し、建設的な解決策を模索する環境の整備が急務である。
It is an urgent necessity to establish an environment where youth can confront multifaceted challenges and explore constructive solutions.
多岐にわたる (taki ni wataru) means multifaceted. 対峙する (tai ji suru) means to confront. 建設的な (kensetsuteki na) means constructive. 模索する (mosaku suru) means to seek/explore. 環境の整備 (kankyō no seibi) means establishing an environment.
青少年のデジタルリテラシー向上は、情報の氾濫する現代において不可欠な要素である。
Improving the digital literacy of youth is an indispensable element in today's information-flooded era.
デジタルリテラシー (dejitaru riterashī) means digital literacy. 向上 (kōjō) means improvement. 情報の氾濫 (jōhō no hanran) means information flood. 不可欠な要素 (fukaketsu na yōso) means indispensable element.
青少年が社会の一員として責任を自覚し、積極的に参画できるような環境を整備することが肝要である。
It is crucial to establish an environment where youth can recognize their responsibilities as members of society and actively participate.
一員 (ichiin) means a member. 責任を自覚する (sekinin o jikaku suru) means to recognize responsibility. 参画する (sankaku suru) means to participate. 肝要である (kan'yō de aru) means to be crucial/essential.
青少年の育成における家庭、学校、地域社会の連携は、 derenとして重要な課題である。
The collaboration between family, school, and local community in the upbringing of youth is a critically important issue.
連携 (renkei) means collaboration/cooperation. 家庭 (katei) means family. 学校 (gakkō) means school. 地域社会 (chiiki shakai) means local community. 連携 (renkei) means collaboration. deren is a typo, should be 'denmo' or similar context dependent. Assuming 'denmo' (denmo) means 'each' or 'respective'. Corrected to: 家庭、学校、地域社会の連携は、それぞれとして重要な課題である。
青少年の自己肯定感を育むための教育的アプローチの開発が急務である。
The development of educational approaches to foster self-esteem in youth is an urgent necessity.
自己肯定感 (jiko kōteikan) means self-esteem. 育む (hagukumu) means to foster/nurture. 教育的アプローチ (kyōikuteki apurōchi) means educational approach. 開発 (kaihatsu) means development.
青少年が直面する多様なライフスタイルに対応できる柔軟な社会システムの構築が望まれる。
The construction of flexible social systems that can accommodate the diverse lifestyles faced by youth is desired.
ライフスタイル (raifusutairu) means lifestyle. 対応できる (taiō dekiru) means can accommodate/respond to. 柔軟な (jūnan na) means flexible. 社会システム (shakai shisutemu) means social system. 構築 (kōchiku) means construction/building. 望まれる (nozomareru) means is desired/hoped for.
青少年のアイデンティティの形成における社会的・文化的な要因の複雑な相互作用を考察する。
To examine the complex interplay of social and cultural factors in the formation of youth identity.
アイデンティティ (aidentiti) means identity. 形成 (keisei) means formation. 要因 (yōin) means factor. 相互作用 (sōgo sayō) means interaction/interplay. 考察する (kōsatsu suru) means to examine/consider.
青少年の主体性の涵養は、グローバル・デジタルネイティブ世代における喫緊の教育的・社会的ミッションである。
Cultivating the agency of youth, particularly within the global and digital native generation, is an urgent educational and social mission.
主体性 (shutaisei) means agency/initiative. 涵養 (kan'yō) means cultivation/fostering. グローバル・デジタルネイティブ世代 (gurōbaru dejitaru neitibu sedai) means global and digital native generation. 喫緊の (kikkin no) means urgent. ミッション (misshon) means mission.
青少年が直面する多岐にわたる課題に対峙し、建設的な解決策を模索する環境の整備は、 derenとして急務である。
It is an urgent necessity to establish an environment where youth can confront multifaceted challenges and explore constructive solutions.
多岐にわたる (taki ni wataru) means multifaceted. 対峙する (tai ji suru) means to confront. 建設的な (kensetsuteki na) means constructive. 模索する (mosaku suru) means to seek/explore. 環境の整備 (kankyō no seibi) means establishing an environment. deren is a typo, assuming 'denmo' (denmo) meaning 'each' or 'respective'. Corrected to: 環境の整備は、それぞれとして急務である。
青少年のデジタルリテラシー向上は、情報の氾濫する現代において不可欠な要素であり、批判的な思考力の育成にも寄与する。
Improving the digital literacy of youth is an indispensable element in today's information-flooded era, and it also contributes to the development of critical thinking skills.
デジタルリテラシー (dejitaru riterashī) means digital literacy. 向上 (kōjō) means improvement. 情報の氾濫 (jōhō no hanran) means information flood. 不可欠な要素 (fukaketsu na yōso) means indispensable element. 批判的な思考力 (hihanteki na shikōryoku) means critical thinking skills. 育成 (ikusei) means development. 寄与する (kiyo suru) means to contribute.
青少年が社会の一員として責任を自覚し、積極的に参画できるような環境の整備は、 derenとして肝要であり、持続可能な社会の実現に不可欠である。
Establishing an environment where youth can recognize their responsibilities as members of society and actively participate is crucially essential, and indispensable for the realization of a sustainable society.
一員 (ichiin) means a member. 責任を自覚する (sekinin o jikaku suru) means to recognize responsibility. 参画する (sankaku suru) means to participate. 環境の整備 (kankyō no seibi) means establishing an environment. 肝要であり (kan'yō de ari) means is crucially essential and. 持続可能な社会 (jizoku kanō na shakai) means sustainable society. 実現 (jitsugen) means realization. 不可欠である (fukaketsu de aru) means to be indispensable. deren is a typo, assuming 'denmo' (denmo) meaning 'each' or 'respective'. Corrected to: 環境の整備は、それぞれとして肝要であり...
青少年の育成における家庭、学校、地域社会の連携は、 derenとして重要な課題であり、 derenの相乗効果を最大化する戦略が求められる。
Collaboration between family, school, and local community in the upbringing of youth is a critically important issue, and strategies to maximize their synergistic effects are sought.
育成 (ikusei) means upbringing. 連携 (renkei) means collaboration. 家庭 (katei) means family. 学校 (gakkō) means school. 地域社会 (chiiki shakai) means local community. 課題 (kadai) means issue. 相乗効果 (sōjō kōka) means synergistic effect. 最大化する (saidai ka suru) means to maximize. 戦略 (senryaku) means strategy. 求められる (motomerareru) means is sought/required. deren is a typo, assuming 'denmo' (denmo) meaning 'each' or 'respective'. Corrected to: 連携は、それぞれとして重要な課題であり、それぞれの相乗効果を最大化する戦略が求められる。
青少年の自己肯定感を育むための教育的アプローチの開発は、 derenとして急務であり、 derenの学際的な研究が不可欠である。
The development of educational approaches to foster self-esteem in youth is an urgent necessity, and interdisciplinary research is indispensable for this.
自己肯定感 (jiko kōteikan) means self-esteem. 育む (hagukumu) means to foster/nurture. 教育的アプローチ (kyōikuteki apurōchi) means educational approach. 開発 (kaihatsu) means development. 急務であり (kyūmu de ari) means is an urgent necessity and. 学際的な研究 (gakusaiteki na kenkyū) means interdisciplinary research. 不可欠である (fukaketsu de aru) means to be indispensable. deren is a typo, assuming 'denmo' (denmo) meaning 'each' or 'respective'. Corrected to: 開発は、それぞれとして急務であり、それぞれの学際的な研究が不可欠である。
青少年が直面する多様なライフスタイルに対応できる柔軟な社会システムの構築は、 derenとして望まれるが、 derenの持続可能性を担保する方策の検討が不可欠である。
The construction of flexible social systems that can accommodate the diverse lifestyles faced by youth is desired, but consideration of measures to guarantee their sustainability is indispensable.
ライフスタイル (raifusutairu) means lifestyle. 対応できる (taiō dekiru) means can accommodate/respond to. 柔軟な (jūnan na) means flexible. 社会システム (shakai shisutemu) means social system. 構築 (kōchiku) means construction/building. 望まれる (nozomareru) means is desired/hoped for. 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei) means sustainability. 担保する (tanpo suru) means to guarantee. 方策 (hōsaku) means measure/plan. 検討 (kentō) means consideration. 不可欠である (fukaketsu de aru) means to be indispensable. deren is a typo, assuming 'denmo' (denmo) meaning 'each' or 'respective'. Corrected to: 構築は、それぞれとして望まれるが、それぞれの持続可能性を担保する方策の検討が不可欠である。
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Targeted at youth; aimed at young people.
これは青少年(せいしょうねん)を対象(たいしょう)としたイベント( いべんと)です。
— Youth development plan; plan for fostering youth.
政府(せいふ)は青少年育成計画(せいしょうねんいくせいけいかく)を発表(はっぴょう)した。
— Protection of youth; safeguarding young people.
青少年保護(せいしょうねんほご)は社会(しゃかい)の責務(せきむ)です。
— Adolescence; the period of youth.
青少年期(せいしょうねんき)の心理(しんり)は複雑(ふくざつ)だ。
— Juvenile delinquency; youth crime.
青少年犯罪(せいしょうねんはんざい)の増加(ぞうか)が懸念(けねん)されている。
— Youth issues; problems related to young people.
青少年問題(せいしょうねんもんだい)に取(と)り組(く)む。
— Youth center; community center for young people.
青少年センター(せいしょうねんせんたー)は誰(だれ)でも利用(りよう)できる。
— Youth reading; reading among young people.
青少年読書(せいしょうねんどくしょ)キャンペーンが開催(かいさい)される。
— Youth sports; sports activities for young people.
青少年スポーツ(せいしょうねんすぽーつ)の振興(しんこう)が重要(じゅうよう)です。
— Youth science (e.g., science education for youth).
青少年科学(せいしょうねんかがく)の普及(ふきゅう)に貢献(こうけん)する。
Often Confused With
若者 is a more general and often less formal term for 'young people.' While 青少年 is specific to the developmental stage between childhood and adulthood and used formally, 若者 can encompass a broader age range and is used more casually.
青年 often refers to young adults, typically from late teens to early thirties, implying a degree of maturity and readiness. 青少年 covers a slightly earlier and broader phase of development.
子供 means 'child,' referring to a younger age group before the onset of adolescence. 青少年 marks the transition away from childhood.
Idioms & Expressions
— This idiom literally translates to 'blue spring' and metaphorically refers to the vibrant, sometimes turbulent, and passionate period of youth. It captures the essence of youthful energy, idealism, and the challenges of growing up.
彼(かれ)の青(あお)い春(はる)は音楽(おんがく)と共(とも)にあった。
Literary, poetic, somewhat nostalgic— This is a common phrase meaning 'youthful days' or 'period of youth.' It refers to the time of one's youth, often with a sense of nostalgia or fond remembrance.
私(わたし)の青春時代(せいしゅんじだい)は楽(たの)しかった。
Common, often nostalgic— Literally 'blue green' (referring to immaturity) and 'young person.' This idiom refers to a young, inexperienced, or immature person, often used somewhat disparagingly or condescendingly.
まだ(まだ)青二才(あおにさい)なんだから、経験(けいけん)を積(つ)みなさい。
Informal, sometimes derogatory— This refers to the 20th birthday, which is a significant milestone in Japan as it marks the legal age of adulthood (though this is changing to 18). It signifies the transition from youth to adulthood.
二十歳(はたち)の誕生日(たんじょうび)で大人(おとな)になった。
Cultural, formal— This idiom means 'an act of youthful folly' or 'a mistake made due to youthful impulsiveness or immaturity.' It's often used as an excuse or explanation for rash behavior.
それは若気(わかげ)の至(いた)りだったと思(おも)います。
Common, informal— A youth group or association, often community-based, for young adults (青年 - seinen). While not strictly an idiom, it's a common term related to organized youth activities.
青年団(せいねんだん)の活動(かつどう)に参加(さんか)した。
Formal, community-based— Refers to the setbacks or stumbles experienced during youth. It acknowledges that the journey through youth is not always smooth and involves difficulties.
青春(せいしゅん)の蹉跌(さてつ)は成長(せいちょう)の糧(かて)となる。
Literary, philosophical— Literally 'smelling of green/blue,' this idiom means 'naive,' 'green,' or 'immature.' It's often used to describe idealistic but unrealistic views or opinions held by young people.
君(きみ)の考(かんが)え(え)はまだ(まだ)青臭(あおくさ)いよ。
Informal, often critical— Dreaming young people; idealistic youth. This phrase captures the aspirational nature of youth.
夢見(ゆめみ)る若者(わかもの)たちに希望(きぼう)を与(あた)える。
Poetic, general— Describes someone who is young, fresh, innocent, and perhaps a bit naive or inexperienced. It often carries a positive connotation of newness and potential.
彼女(かのじょ)の初々(ういう)しい姿(すがた)に感動(かんどう)した。
General, often positiveEasily Confused
Both terms refer to young people.
若者 is a general term for 'young people' and can be used more broadly and informally. 青少年 is more formal, specific to the age group between childhood and adulthood, and often used in official or academic contexts.
News often uses <mark>青少年</mark> for statistics, while friends might talk about <mark>若者</mark> trends.
Both relate to youth and young adulthood.
青年 often implies a slightly older stage of young adulthood (late teens to early thirties) with connotations of maturity or readiness for responsibility. 青少年 covers the broader transitional period from adolescence into early adulthood, focusing more on the developmental stage itself.
A policy for <mark>青少年</mark> might focus on education and guidance, while a program for <mark>青年</mark> might focus on career development or leadership.
Both refer to young individuals.
子供 means 'child' and refers to a younger age group before puberty. 青少年 signifies the period after childhood and before full adulthood, encompassing adolescence and early adulthood.
Safety regulations for <mark>子供</mark> are different from laws concerning <mark>青少年</mark> delinquency.
Both refer to young people in their teenage years.
ティーンエイジャー is an informal loanword specifically for 'teenagers' (13-19 years old). 青少年 is a more formal and broader term that includes teenagers but also extends into early adulthood.
A magazine for <mark>ティーンエイジャー</mark> might be casual, while a government report on <mark>青少年</mark> issues would be formal.
Both contain the kanji 少 (young).
少年 typically refers to a younger boy or 'juvenile' (often used in legal contexts like 'juvenile crime'). 青少年 is a more encompassing term for both males and females in the broader period of youth between childhood and adulthood.
The term <mark>少年</mark>犯罪 specifically refers to crimes committed by young males, whereas <mark>青少年</mark>問題 is a broader term for issues affecting all young people.
Sentence Patterns
青少年は [adjective/noun] です。
<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>元気<rp>(</rp><rt>げんき</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>です。
これは 青少年 のための [noun] です。
これは<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>のための<ruby>公園<rp>(</rp><rt>こうえん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>です。
青少年 は [noun] を [verb] しています。
<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>読書<rp>(</rp><rt>どくしょ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>奨励<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうれい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>しています。
青少年 の [noun] が [verb/adjective].
<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>犯罪<rp>(</rp><rt>はんざい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>増加<rp>(</rp><rt>ぞうか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>しています。
青少年 を 対象とした [noun]
<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>対象<rp>(</rp><rt>たいしょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>とした<ruby>イベント<rp>(</rp><rt> いべんと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>
青少年 は、[noun] の [noun] において [complex verb phrase].
<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は、<ruby>現代社会<rp>(</rp><rt>げんだいしゃかい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>変化<rp>(</rp><rt>へんか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>において<ruby>複雑<rp>(</rp><rt>ふくざつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>課題<rp>(</rp><rt>かだい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>に<ruby>直面<rp>(</rp><rt>ちょくめん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>している。
青少年 の [noun] は、[noun] として [adjective] である。
<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>主体性<rp>(</rp><rt>しゅたいせい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は、<ruby>将来<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうらい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>社会<rp>(</rp><rt>しゃかい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>にとって<ruby>不可欠<rp>(</rp><rt>ふかけつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>である。
青少年 の [noun] を [verb phrase] ために、[noun] が [verb phrase].
<ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>健全<rp>(</rp><rt>けんぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>育成<rp>(</rp><rt>いくせい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>促進<rp>(</rp><rt>そくしん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>するために、<ruby>多角的<rp>(</rp><rt>たかっきてき</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>支援<rp>(</rp><rt>しえん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>必要<rp>(</rp><rt>ひつよう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>とされている。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in specific contexts (news, policy, academia), moderate overall.
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Using 青少年 (seishōnen) in casual conversation.
→
若者 (wakamono) or ティーンエイジャー (tīn'eijā).
青少年の is too formal for everyday chats. It sounds like you're reading from a textbook or official document. 若者 is the general term for young people, and ティーンエイジャー is specific to teenagers.
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Confusing 青少年 (seishōnen) with 少年 (shōnen) or 少女 (shōjo).
→
Use 青少年 for general youth (both genders), 少年 for young boys/juveniles, and 少女 for young girls.
少年 and 少女 are gender-specific and often used in legal or specific contexts. 青少年 is the inclusive, broader term for the age group between childhood and adulthood.
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Assuming 青少年 (seishōnen) strictly means 'teenagers'.
→
青少年の generally covers adolescence through early adulthood (up to early twenties).
While teenagers are included, the term often extends beyond 19 years old, especially in policy or sociological discussions, to encompass the broader period of young adulthood.
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Not recognizing compound words like 青少年犯罪 (seishōnen hanzai).
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Learn common compounds like 青少年犯罪, 青少年育成, 青少年問題.
These compound words are frequently used and essential for understanding discussions about youth-related issues. Failing to recognize them means missing key vocabulary.
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Using 青少年 (seishōnen) to describe a specific individual's past youth.
→
Use phrases like 青春時代 (seishun jidai) or 若かった頃 (wakakatta koro).
青少年の is typically used to refer to the demographic group or a stage of life in a formal context. For personal reminiscence, more idiomatic or descriptive phrases are used.
Tips
Formality is Key
Remember that 青少年 is a formal term. Use it when discussing topics in news, government documents, academic papers, or educational contexts. For casual chats with friends, opt for 若者 (wakamono) or ティーンエイジャー (tīn'eijā) instead.
Kanji Breakdown
Break down the kanji: 青 (blue/green for youth), 少 (young), 年 (years/person). Visualize a group of young people under a bright blue sky – their 'young years'.
Societal Significance
Understand that 青少年 is often discussed in relation to societal development, protection, and future potential in Japan. This context helps in grasping the word's importance.
Seishōnen vs. Wakamono
Think of 青少年 as the 'official' term for youth in a report, and 若者 as the 'everyday' term you'd use when talking about young people generally.
Stress and Sounds
Focus on stressing the second syllable ('shō') and ensuring the 'ei' in 'sei' is a single syllable. Listen to native speakers to perfect the pronunciation.
Common Pairings
Learn common phrases like 青少年犯罪 (juvenile delinquency) and 青少年育成 (youth development) as they often appear together and provide context for the word's usage.
Particle Usage
Pay attention to how particles like の (no), を (o), and に (ni) are used with 青少年 in sentences to indicate possession, direct objects, or targets of actions.
'Seishun' Connotation
Recognize that the concept of 'Seishun' (青春 - youth/springtime of life) carries strong emotional weight in Japan, often associated with idealism and formative experiences, which influences how 青少年 are discussed.
Opposite Stages
Understand that 青少年 contrasts with 大人 (adult) and 子供 (child) in terms of life stages, helping to define its boundaries.
Practice with Examples
Try creating your own sentences using 青少年 in different formal contexts, such as writing a hypothetical news headline or a policy objective.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'SEI' like 'say' (you say you're young), 'SHŌ' like 'show' (you show your youthful energy), and 'NEN' like 'nen' (you're in your young 'nen' years). So, SEI-SHŌ-NEN: Say you're young, show your energy, young years!
Visual Association
Imagine a vibrant blue (青) wave of young people (少年) moving forward through time (年). The blue represents youth, energy, and perhaps a bit of the unknown. The wave signifies a collective group.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 青少年 in three different sentences today: one about education, one about social issues, and one about government policy. This will help solidify its formal usage.
Word Origin
The word 青少年 (seishōnen) is a compound word formed from three kanji: 青 (ao - blue/green), 少 (shō - few/young), and 年 (nen - year/person). The kanji 青 often symbolizes youth, freshness, and immaturity, while 少 emphasizes youthfulness and 年 refers to the age or the person themselves.
Original meaning: Literally, it can be interpreted as 'young years' or 'young persons,' signifying the period of life characterized by youth.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters)Cultural Context
When discussing 青少年, it's important to be aware of the societal focus on their development and potential. Avoid generalizations that might stereotype them negatively. The term itself is generally neutral and descriptive, but the context in which it's used can imply different societal attitudes towards this age group.
In English-speaking cultures, terms like 'youth,' 'adolescents,' 'teenagers,' and 'young adults' are used. While 'youth' can be formal, 'teenagers' is specific to ages 13-19, and 'young adults' extends the range. The Japanese term 青少年 covers a similar broad period but carries a more formal and official weight.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
News reports discussing social trends, crime statistics, or government initiatives.
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>犯罪<rp>(</rp><rt>はんざい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>増加<rp>(</rp><rt>ぞうか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>している。
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>への<ruby>支援<rp>(</rp><rt>しえん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>必要<rp>(</rp><rt>ひつよう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だ。
Government policy documents and public service announcements.
- <ruby>青少年育成<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねんいくせい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>のための<ruby>計画<rp>(</rp><rt>けいかく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>。
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>権利<rp>(</rp><rt>けんり</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>守<rp>(</rp><rt>まも</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>る。
Academic research papers on sociology, psychology, or education.
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>発達<rp>(</rp><rt>はったつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>に<ruby>関<rp>(</rp><rt>かん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>する<ruby>研究<rp>(</rp><rt>けんきゅう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>。
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>社会<rp>(</rp><rt>しゃかい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>への<ruby>適応<rp>(</rp><rt>てきおう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>。
Educational materials and discussions about youth development.
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>読書<rp>(</rp><rt>どくしょ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>奨励<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうれい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>する。
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>多様<rp>(</rp><rt>たよう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>経験<rp>(</rp><rt>けいけん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>。
Discussions about community centers, youth organizations, or sports clubs.
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>センターの<ruby>利用<rp>(</rp><rt>りよう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>。
- <ruby>青少年<rp>(</rp><rt>せいしょうねん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>スポーツ<ruby>教室<rp>(</rp><rt>きょうしつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>。
Conversation Starters
"What are some common challenges faced by 青少年 in Japan today?"
"How does the concept of 'Seishun' (青春) influence Japanese society's view of youth?"
"Are there specific government programs aimed at supporting 青少年 in Japan?"
"What role does education play in the development of 青少年?"
"How does the media portray 青少年 in Japan?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time in your life that you feel represented your 'seishōnen' period. What were the key experiences and emotions?
Imagine you are creating a program to support 青少年 in your community. What would be its main goals and activities?
Reflect on the differences between how youth are perceived in your culture and how 青少年 are discussed in Japan. What similarities or differences stand out?
Write a short story about a group of 青少年 facing a challenge and how they overcome it together.
Consider the future of 青少年 in an increasingly digital world. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks they might face?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe exact age range for 青少年 can vary slightly depending on the context, but it generally covers the period from puberty (around 12-13 years old) through adolescence and into early adulthood (roughly up to 19-22 years old). It's the phase between childhood (子供) and adulthood (大人). Official policies or specific studies might define it more precisely, but this broad range is commonly understood.
No, 青少年 is generally considered a formal or semi-formal term. In casual conversation, people usually use 若者 (wakamono) for 'young people' orティーンエイジャー (tīn'eijā) if they specifically mean 'teenager.' Using 青少年 in a casual chat might sound overly stiff or bureaucratic.
The main difference lies in formality and specificity. 若者 is a general term for 'young people' and can be used in most situations, both formal and informal. 青少年 is more formal, academic, and often used in official contexts like government reports, news articles, or research papers. It specifically denotes the developmental stage between childhood and adulthood.
Yes, 青少年 is gender-neutral and refers to young people in general, encompassing both males and females. While 少年 (shōnen) specifically means 'boy' or 'juvenile male,' and 少女 (shōjo) means 'girl,' 青少年 is the inclusive term for the age group.
The term is frequently used when discussing topics such as youth development (青少年育成), juvenile delinquency (青少年犯罪), education, employment opportunities for young people, mental health issues among youth, and social participation of the younger generation.
Yes, the most prominent is 成人の日 (Seijin no Hi), celebrated on the second Monday of January. It marks the legal age of adulthood (which is now 18 in Japan, though the ceremony traditionally celebrated 20-year-olds). This day signifies the transition from 青少年 to adulthood (大人).
While both relate to youth, 青年 often refers to young adults (typically late teens to early thirties) who are seen as more mature, potentially entering careers, or having greater responsibilities. 青少年 covers a broader developmental phase, often starting earlier and focusing more on the transition and formative years.
The kanji 青 (ao) is used metaphorically. In Japanese culture, 'blue' or 'green' can symbolize youth, freshness, immaturity, or potential, much like 'green' implies inexperience in English. It evokes the idea of something young and developing.
Yes, many laws and ordinances use this term. For example, there are 青少年保護条例 (seishōnen hogo jōrei - youth protection ordinances) aimed at safeguarding young people, and laws related to 青少年育成 (seishōnen ikusei - youth development) and regulating activities involving them.
While 青少年 refers to the demographic group, phrases like 青春時代 (seishun jidai - youthful days) or 青い春 (aoi haru - blue spring, referring to the vibrant period of youth) are used to talk about one's personal experience of youth, often with a nostalgic tone.
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Summary
Seishōnen (青少年) is the formal Japanese term for youth, specifically the demographic group between childhood and adulthood, commonly used in official reports, academic studies, and news concerning societal issues related to this age bracket.
- Seishōnen (青少年) means youth, young people transitioning from childhood to adulthood.
- It's a formal term used in official, academic, and news contexts.
- Covers adolescence and early adulthood, distinct from children and adults.
- Often discusses issues like development, education, and social trends.
Formality is Key
Remember that 青少年 is a formal term. Use it when discussing topics in news, government documents, academic papers, or educational contexts. For casual chats with friends, opt for 若者 (wakamono) or ティーンエイジャー (tīn'eijā) instead.
Kanji Breakdown
Break down the kanji: 青 (blue/green for youth), 少 (young), 年 (years/person). Visualize a group of young people under a bright blue sky – their 'young years'.
Societal Significance
Understand that 青少年 is often discussed in relation to societal development, protection, and future potential in Japan. This context helps in grasping the word's importance.
Seishōnen vs. Wakamono
Think of 青少年 as the 'official' term for youth in a report, and 若者 as the 'everyday' term you'd use when talking about young people generally.
Example
青少年育成のためのイベントが開催された。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More family words
還暦
B160th birthday (celebration of completing a 60-year cycle).
〜くらい
B1About; approximately; to the extent that.
認め合う
B1To recognize each other's worth; to acknowledge.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
甘える
B1To be spoiled, to fawn; to behave like a pampered child.
活発な
B1Active; lively; vigorous.
思春期
B1Adolescence; the period of transition from childhood to adulthood.
養子
B1Adopted child; a child taken into one's family by legal means.
養親
B2Adoptive parent.
