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B1 noun #3,500 mais comum 9 min de leitura

近代

kindai Top 3,500

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas 近代 em 30 segundos

Explicação 近代 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to worry about the deep historical meaning of 'Kindai.' Just think of it as a way to say 'modern' or 'new-style' when talking about things like buildings or equipment. You might see it on signs or in simple history books. It is made of two kanji: 'Kin' (near) and 'Dai' (era). Think of it as 'the era near to us.' At this stage, just remember that 'Kindai-teki' means 'modern-looking.' For example, a 'Kindai-teki na tatemono' is a modern building. It is the opposite of 'Furui' (old). You won't use it in daily conversation as much as 'Atarashii' (new), but it's good to recognize it in writing. Focus on the visual difference between a traditional Japanese house and a 'Kindai-teki' apartment building. This will help you understand the core meaning of progress and change that the word carries. Don't worry about the specific dates yet; just know it means 'not ancient.'

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At the A2 level, you can start to distinguish 'Kindai' from simple words like 'Atarashii.' 'Kindai' usually refers to a period of time. You will see it in phrases like 'Kindai no Nihon' (Modern Japan). This level is where you learn that Japan changed a lot about 150 years ago. 'Kindai' is the word used to describe that change. You might hear it in a museum or see it in a travel guide about 'Kindai-teki na toshi' (modern cities). A key point for A2 learners is the word 'Kindai化' (Kindaika), which means 'modernization.' You can use this to say 'Japan modernized.' It's a useful word for talking about how your hometown has changed. Remember that 'Kindai' is a noun, so you use 'no' to connect it to other nouns. If you see a very old-looking train and a 'Kindai-teki' train, you are looking at the difference between the past and the modern era. Keep it simple: Kindai = Modern/Industrial era.

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As a B1 learner, you should understand that 'Kindai' has a specific historical boundary. In Japan, 'Kindai' usually starts with the Meiji Restoration (1868). This is when Japan stopped being a samurai society and started building factories and modern schools. You should be able to use 'Kindai' in sentences about history, society, and architecture. You also need to start distinguishing it from 'Gendai' (Contemporary). 'Kindai' is the era of the Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa periods. If you are reading a story about a person in a kimono riding a steam train, that is a 'Kindai' setting. You should also learn the adjectival form 'Kindai-teki na' to describe modern attitudes or facilities. For example, 'Kindai-teki na kangaekata' (a modern way of thinking) implies rational and scientific thought. This word is common in JLPT N3 level materials. Practice using it when discussing the history of your own country as well, noting the transition from agricultural to industrial society.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'Kindai' in academic and formal contexts. You should understand compounds like 'Kindai-bungaku' (Modern Literature) and 'Kindai-shi' (Modern History). At this stage, you should know that 'Kindai' often implies a shift toward Westernization. When discussing Japanese culture, 'Kindai' is the period where Western influence became dominant. You should be able to discuss 'Kindai-ka' (modernization) in detail, including its pros and cons. For instance, you might talk about how 'Kindai-ka' led to economic growth but also the loss of some traditions. You should also be comfortable using 'Kindai' in the context of sociology—discussing the 'Kindai-kazoku' (modern family) or 'Kindai-kokka' (modern state). The distinction between 'Kindai' (1868-1945) and 'Gendai' (1945-present) becomes very important here. In essays, you might use 'Kindai ni oite' (In the modern era) to introduce a historical argument. You are moving beyond simple 'modern' to a specific historiographical term.

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For C1 learners, 'Kindai' is a conceptual tool. You should understand the philosophical implications of 'Kindai-sei' (modernity). This includes the rise of the individual, the development of capitalism, and the dominance of rationalism. You should be able to engage in debates about when 'Kindai' actually ended or if we are in a 'Post-Kindai' (Post-modern) era. At this level, you will encounter the word in complex literary criticism and sociological theory. You should know terms like 'Kindai-teki jia' (the modern self) and how it contrasts with pre-modern collective identities. You should also be aware of the 'Overcoming Modernity' (Kindai no chokoku) debates in Japanese intellectual history. Your usage should be precise; you wouldn't use 'Kindai' to describe a current fashion trend unless you were making a specific historical comparison. You can use the word to analyze the structural changes in Japanese society, from the abolition of the class system to the establishment of a modern legal code. It is a word of systemic transformation.

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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of the historiographical debates surrounding 'Kindai.' You understand that the definition of 'Kindai' can vary depending on the field—whether it's political history, art history, or literature. You can discuss the nuances between 'Kindai' and 'Kinsei' (Early Modern) and how the transition period (the Bakumatsu) is categorized. You are familiar with the concept of 'Multiple Modernities' and can discuss how Japan's 'Kindai' differs from the Western experience. You use terms like 'Kindai-ka riron' (modernization theory) with ease in academic discourse. You can critique the 'Kindai-teki' perspective itself, looking at how the concept of the 'modern' was used to construct a national identity. Your vocabulary includes highly specialized compounds like 'Kindai-shugi' (modernism) and 'Chuu-kindai' (the period between medieval and modern). You can read scholarly articles that use 'Kindai' to deconstruct the myths of the Meiji era. At this level, the word is not just a label for a time period, but a lens through which to view the entire project of Japanese nation-building.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

近代 em 30 segundos

Kindai refers to the 'modern era,' specifically the period of Japan's rapid industrialization and Westernization from 1868 to 1945.
It is a historical term, distinct from 'Gendai' (contemporary/now) and 'Kinsei' (early modern/Edo period).
Grammatically, it is a noun often used with 'no' or as 'Kindai-teki' (modern-style) to describe attitudes, buildings, or systems.
Commonly heard in academic contexts, museums, and as an abbreviation for Kinki University (Kindai).

The Japanese word 近代 (きんだい - kindai) is a nuanced term that translates to 'modern times' or the 'modern era.' However, unlike the English word 'modern,' which can vaguely refer to anything happening right now, kindai has a very specific historical and academic weight in Japanese. It primarily refers to the period of transition when Japan moved from a feudal society into a centralized, industrial nation-state. In most historical contexts, this begins with the Meiji Restoration in 1868 and extends through the Taisho and early Showa eras, typically concluding at the end of World War II in 1945.

Historical Scope: In Japanese historiography, the timeline is often divided into 古代 (Kodai - Ancient), 中世 (Chuusei - Medieval), 近世 (Kinsei - Early Modern/Edo Period), 近代 (Kindai - Modern), and 現代 (Gendai - Contemporary). Understanding this sequence is vital for using the word correctly.

You will encounter this word frequently when discussing history, architecture, literature, and sociology. It evokes a sense of rapid change, Westernization, and the birth of the individual in Japanese society. When you see a red-brick building in Tokyo from the early 1900s, it is described as kindai kenchiku (modern architecture). When you read the works of Natsume Soseki, you are studying kindai bungaku (modern literature).

日本の近代化は明治維新から始まった。(Japan's modernization began with the Meiji Restoration.)

Nuance of Progress: The term often carries a connotation of 'progress' or 'enlightenment' (bunmei kaika), representing the shift from traditional customs to scientific and rational thought.

近代的な考え方を持つことは、当時の知識人にとって重要だった。(Having a modern way of thinking was important for intellectuals of that time.)

In a broader global context, kindai can refer to the post-Renaissance period in the West, but in daily Japanese conversation, it almost always points back to the transformative years of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is a word of nostalgia for some, and a word of critical academic study for others, representing the bridge between the samurai era and the high-tech Japan we know today.

Common Compounds: 近代史 (Kindai-shi - Modern History), 近代国家 (Kindai-kokka - Modern State), 近代美術 (Kindai-bijutsu - Modern Art).

この美術館には、日本の近代美術の傑作が展示されている。(Masterpieces of Japanese modern art are on display in this museum.)

彼は近代文学の研究者です。(He is a researcher of modern literature.)

近代五種というスポーツ競技を知っていますか？(Do you know the sporting event called the Modern Pentathlon?)

Using 近代 (kindai) correctly requires a grasp of its grammatical role as a noun that often functions as a prefix to create compound terms. It is rarely used as a standalone 'adjective' in the way 'modern' is used in English. Instead, it is typically followed by the particle の (no) or combined directly with other nouns.

The 'Kindai no' Pattern: When describing a concept or object from the modern era, use 近代の. For example, kindai no nihon (Modern Japan) or kindai no tetsugaku (Modern philosophy).

A very common grammatical transformation is adding 化 (ka) to the end to form 近代化 (kindaika), which means 'modernization.' This can further be turned into a verb by adding する (suru). This is essential for discussing social changes or industrial development.

その都市は急速に近代化した。(That city modernized rapidly.)

Describing Facilities: Use 近代的な設備 (kindai-teki na setsubi) for 'modern facilities.' This implies the equipment is up-to-date and advanced.

In formal writing, kindai is used to set the stage for historical analysis. You might start a sentence with Kindai ni oite... (In the modern era...). This establishes a formal, academic tone suitable for essays or reports. It is also used in the names of universities, such as Kinki University, which is often abbreviated as Kindai (近大).

近代的なビルが立ち並ぶ街並み。(A cityscape lined with modern buildings.)

Academic Contexts: When discussing politics, kindai minshu-shugi (modern democracy) is a standard term. It distinguishes current political systems from ancient Greek or medieval models.

私たちは近代社会のルールに従わなければならない。(We must follow the rules of modern society.)

この工場は、近代的な機械を導入した。(This factory introduced modern machinery.)

近代の歴史を学ぶことは、現在を理解するために不可欠だ。(Learning modern history is essential for understanding the present.)

While 近代 (kindai) might sound like a word reserved for dusty textbooks, it actually appears in many facets of Japanese daily life, albeit with a specific 'vibe.' You are most likely to hear it in educational settings, news broadcasts, and cultural discussions. If you visit a museum in Tokyo like the Tokyo Kokuritsu Kindai Bijutsukan (National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo), the word is literally in the name.

News and Media: News anchors use kindai when discussing long-term societal shifts. For example, 'The structure of the modern family (kindai kazoku) is changing.' Here, it refers to the nuclear family model that became standard during Japan's modernization.

In the world of sports, the 'Modern Pentathlon' is called Kindai Goshu. You will see this during Olympic coverage. Furthermore, in the Kansai region, 'Kindai' is the ubiquitous nickname for Kinki University. Students there will say, 'I go to Kindai,' and there are even 'Kindai Tuna' (Kindai-maguro) brands resulting from the university's famous aquaculture research.

彼は近代大学の学生です。(He is a student at Kinki University [Kindai].)

Architecture and Tourism: When touring cities like Yokohama or Hakodate, guides will point out kindai kenchiku. These are Western-style buildings from the late 1800s. It’s a keyword for fans of 'retro' aesthetics.

In literature and film, kindai is used to describe the era of the 'modern ego'—the period when characters started struggling with individual identity versus family duty. If you hear a critic talking about a 'modern' sensibility in a classic film, they are likely using kindai-teki.

この建物は日本の近代化の象徴です。(This building is a symbol of Japan's modernization.)

Philosophy and Lectures: University lectures on sociology frequently use kindai-shiso (modern thought). It refers to the introduction of human rights, individualism, and scientific empiricism.

近代合理主義の限界について話し合いましょう。(Let's discuss the limits of modern rationalism.)

明治政府は近代的な軍隊を組織した。(The Meiji government organized a modern army.)

彼は近代的なライフスタイルを楽しんでいる。(He is enjoying a modern lifestyle.)

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with 近代 (kindai) is using it as a direct substitute for the English word 'modern' in every context. In English, 'modern' is a catch-all term for 'now,' 'recently,' and 'the post-medieval era.' In Japanese, these are split into different words.

Mistake 1: Kindai vs. Gendai: If you want to talk about current society (the 21st century), use 現代 (gendai). Using kindai to describe social media or current politics sounds like you are talking about the 1920s. Gendai is 'contemporary,' while kindai is 'modern-historical.'

Another error is using kindai to describe the 'latest' technology. For a brand new phone or a cutting-edge piece of software, use 最新 (saishin). If you say kindai-teki na sumaho, it sounds like you are talking about the very first smartphones from 2008, or perhaps a phone that looks 'modernistic' in an architectural sense.

✕ 近代のニュースをチェックする。(Checking modern news.)
○ 現代のニュースをチェックする。(Checking contemporary news.)

Mistake 2: Grammatical Misuse: Learners often try to use kindai as an i-adjective (e.g., *kindaikunai). It is a noun. It must be kindai-teki dewa nai or kindai no mono dewa nai.

Finally, be careful with the nuance of 'modernization.' Kindaika usually refers to industrial and systemic changes. If you are talking about a person 'modernizing' their wardrobe, kindaika is too heavy and formal; use oshare ni suru or gendai-fuu ni suru instead.

✕ 彼はとても近代だ。(He is very modern.)
○ 彼はとても現代的な考え方を持っている。(He has a very contemporary way of thinking.)

Confusion with 'Ima': In casual speech, 'modern' is often just 'ima' (now). 'Ima no wakamono' (Modern youth) is much more natural than 'Kindai no wakamono' (which sounds like youth from 1910).

✕ 近代の音楽はうるさい。(Modern music is noisy.)
○ 最近の音楽はうるさい。(Recent music is noisy.)

この本は近代の始まりを論じている。(This book discusses the beginning of the modern era.)

近代的なビルに住みたい。(I want to live in a modern building.)

To truly master 近代 (kindai), you must understand its relationship with other 'time' words. Japanese has a high precision for eras, and choosing the right one marks you as an advanced speaker.

現代 (Gendai) - Contemporary: This is the most common alternative. While kindai is the era of industrialization (1868-1945), gendai is the era after 1945. If you are talking about the internet, global warming, or current pop stars, use gendai.
近世 (Kinsei) - Early Modern: This refers to the Edo Period. It is 'modern' compared to the medieval era, but 'ancient' compared to kindai. It's the world of samurai and shoguns before Western influence took over.

For things that are 'new' or 'latest,' we have several options. 最新 (Saishin) means 'the very latest' (e.g., saishin model). 近ごろ (Chikagoro) and 最近 (Saikin) mean 'recently' and are used for temporary trends or recent events.

比較: 近代建築 (Meiji-era buildings) vs 現代建築 (21st-century buildings).

当代 (Toudai) - The Present Age: This is a formal term often used in the arts. 'Toudai ichi no' means 'the best in the present day.' It is more literary than gendai.
モダン (Modan) - Modern (Loanword): The katakana modan often refers to a specific aesthetic style—sleek, Western, and stylish. It is used in interior design or fashion (e.g., 'wa-modan' for Japanese-modern style).

この部屋は和モダンなデザインだ。(This room has a Japanese-modern design.)

When in doubt, think about the timeline. If it involves steam, early electricity, and the end of the samurai, it's kindai. If it involves smartphones, the internet, and current events, it's gendai. If it's a specific style, use modan.

近代と現代の境界線はどこですか？(Where is the boundary between the modern and contemporary eras?)

彼は近代的な価値観を否定した。(He rejected modern values.)

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

Before the Meiji era, the word 'Kindai' was sometimes used to mean 'recently,' but its current meaning as a specific historical epoch was cemented by scholars trying to categorize history according to Western models.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /kin.dai/

US /kin.daɪ/

The pitch accent is usually Atamadaka (Type 1), meaning the first syllable 'kin' is high and the rest 'dai' are low: KIn-dai.

Rima com

時代 (jidai) 巨大 (kyodai) 期待 (kitai) 事態 (jitai) 正解 (seikai) 限界 (genkai) 反対 (hantai) 交代 (koutai)

Erros comuns

Pronouncing 'dai' as 'day'. It should rhyme with 'eye'.
Over-emphasizing the 'n' so it sounds like 'kin-n-dai'. Keep it smooth.
Using an English 'r' sound if they misread it as 'rindai'.
Confusing the pitch with 'kinda' (abbreviation for university) which might have different local accents.
Making the 'i' in 'kin' too long like 'kiindai'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

The kanji are common, but the historical nuance requires some study.

Escrita 3/5

Writing 'Kindai' is easy, but using it in compounds correctly takes practice.

Expressão oral 2/5

Easy to pronounce; the challenge is not confusing it with 'Gendai'.

Audição 2/5

Clearly distinguishable in speech, often heard in news and documentaries.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

歴史 (History) 時代 (Era) 新しい (New) 古い (Old) 日本 (Japan)

Aprenda a seguir

現代 (Contemporary) 明治 (Meiji) 化 (Suffix for -ization) 産業 (Industry) 社会 (Society)

Avançado

合理主義 (Rationalism) 啓蒙 (Enlightenment) 国民国家 (Nation-state) 自我 (Self/Ego) 超克 (Overcoming)

Gramática essencial

Noun + 化 (ka)

近代化 (Modernization), 電格化 (Electrification)

Noun + 的 (teki)

近代的な (Modern-style), 歴史的な (Historical)

Noun + の (no) + Noun

近代の日本 (Modern Japan), 古代の城 (Ancient castle)

Ni okeru (In/At)

近代における変化 (Changes in the modern era)

Ni tomonau (Accompanying)

近代化に伴う問題 (Problems accompanying modernization)

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Exemplos por nível

これは近代的なビルです。

This is a modern building.

近代的な (Kindai-teki na) is used here as a na-adjective.

近代の歴史は面白いです。

Modern history is interesting.

近代の (Kindai no) uses the particle 'no' to modify the noun 'rekishi'.

近代的な駅に行きました。

I went to a modern station.

Kindai-teki means 'modern-style'.

近代の服を読みました。

I read about modern clothes.

Kindai here refers to the era of Westernization.

この町は近代化しています。

This town is modernizing.

近代化 (Kindaika) means modernization.

近代的な車が好きです。

I like modern cars.

Kindai-teki describes the style of the car.

近代の日本について知りたいです。

I want to know about modern Japan.

Kindai no Nihon is a very common phrase.

近代は新しい時代です。

The modern era is a new era.

Kindai is used here as a subject noun.

明治時代から日本の近代が始まりました。

Japan's modern era began from the Meiji period.

Uses 'kara' to show the starting point.

近代的な設備があるホテルに泊まりました。

I stayed at a hotel with modern facilities.

Setsubi (facilities) is often paired with kindai-teki.

この博物館は近代の生活を見せてくれます。

This museum shows modern life (from that era).

Kindai no seikatsu refers to life in the modern era.

近代化によって、生活が便利になりました。

Due to modernization, life became convenient.

Ni yotte indicates the cause or means.

近代的な考え方を持つことが大切です。

It is important to have a modern way of thinking.

Kangaekata (way of thinking) is often modified by kindai-teki.

彼は近代史のテストで満点を取りました。

He got a perfect score on the modern history test.

Kindai-shi is a compound noun for 'modern history'.

近代五種は難しいスポーツです。

The Modern Pentathlon is a difficult sport.

Kindai Goshu is the fixed term for this Olympic sport.

近代的なデザインの家を建てたいです。

I want to build a house with a modern design.

Kindai-teki na dezain is a common architectural term.

近代文学を読むのは、語彙を増やすのに役立ちます。

Reading modern literature is helpful for increasing vocabulary.

Kindai bungaku refers to literature from Meiji to early Showa.

日本の近代化は非常に速いスピードで進みました。

Japan's modernization proceeded at a very fast speed.

Susumu (to proceed) is often used with kindaika.

近代社会では、個人の自由が尊重されます。

In modern society, individual freedom is respected.

Kindai shakai (modern society) is a key sociological term.

この建物は、近代建築の代表的な例です。

This building is a representative example of modern architecture.

Daihyou-teki na rei means 'representative example'.

近代的な教育システムが導入されました。

A modern education system was introduced.

Douyuu suru means 'to introduce/implement'.

彼女は近代的な女性の生き方を追求している。

She is pursuing a modern woman's way of life.

Iki-kata means 'way of living'.

近代国家としての地位を確立しました。

It established its status as a modern nation.

Toshite no indicates the capacity or status.

近代的な工場では、ロボットが働いています。

In modern factories, robots are working.

Kindai-teki na koujou highlights the technological aspect.

近代合理主義は、科学の発展に大きく貢献した。

Modern rationalism contributed greatly to the development of science.

Kindai gourishugi is an academic term for modern rationalism.

都市の近代化に伴い、古い街並みが失われていった。

Along with the modernization of the city, old streetscapes were lost.

Ni tomonai means 'along with' or 'as a result of'.

近代的な自我の確立は、多くの文学作品のテーマです。

The establishment of the modern self is a theme in many literary works.

Jiga (the self/ego) is a central concept in Kindai studies.

近代以降、人々の価値観は劇的に変化しました。

Since the modern era, people's values have changed dramatically.

Ikou means 'since' or 'from that time forward'.

近代的なインフラの整備が急務となっている。

The development of modern infrastructure has become an urgent task.

Seibi (maintenance/development) is often used with infrastructure.

この論文は、日本近代史の再解釈を試みている。

This thesis attempts a reinterpretation of modern Japanese history.

Saikaishaku (reinterpretation) is a high-level academic term.

近代美術の抽象的な表現は、理解するのが難しい。

The abstract expressions in modern art are difficult to understand.

Chuushou-teki (abstract) is often used to describe modern art.

近代的な管理手法を導入することで、効率が上がった。

By introducing modern management techniques, efficiency increased.

Kanri shuhou means 'management methods'.

近代という時代の本質は、どこにあるのだろうか。

Where does the essence of the era known as 'modern' lie?

To iu jidai highlights the era as a specific concept.

近代的な国民国家の形成には、言語の統一が不可欠だった。

Language unification was essential for the formation of a modern nation-state.

Kokumin-kokka is the term for 'nation-state'.

近代の光と影を、文学を通して考察する。

We will examine the light and shadow (pros and cons) of the modern era through literature.

Hikari to kage is a metaphor for the positive and negative aspects.

近代化のプロセスにおいて、伝統文化は変容を余儀なくされた。

In the process of modernization, traditional culture was forced to transform.

Wo yogi naku sareta means 'was forced to'.

近代的な合理性と、非合理な感情の対立を描く。

It depicts the conflict between modern rationality and irrational emotions.

Gourisei (rationality) vs. Hi-gouriteki (irrational).

近代医学の進歩により、平均寿命が大幅に延びた。

Due to the progress of modern medicine, average life expectancy has extended significantly.

Kindai igaku is the specific term for Western-based medicine.

近代への移行期には、多くの社会的混乱が生じた。

During the transition period to the modern era, much social turmoil occurred.

Ikou-ki means 'transition period'.

近代的な法体系の整備は、国家の自立に必要だった。

The development of a modern legal system was necessary for national independence.

Hou-taikei means 'legal system'.

近代の超克という課題は、今なお我々に突きつけられている。

The challenge of 'overcoming modernity' is still being presented to us today.

Kindai no chokoku is a famous philosophical slogan in Japan.

近代的な主体性の確立という言説を批判的に検証する。

We will critically examine the discourse on the establishment of modern subjectivity.

Shutaisei (subjectivity) is a high-level philosophical term.

日本の近代化は、西洋化と同義であったのかという問い。

The question of whether Japan's modernization was synonymous with Westernization.

Dougi (synonymous) is used for conceptual comparisons.

ポスト近代という視点から、現在の社会現象を分析する。

Analyze current social phenomena from a post-modern perspective.

Post-kindai is the Japanese term for post-modern.

近代化がもたらした疎外感は、現代文学の根底にある。

The sense of alienation brought by modernization lies at the root of modern literature.

Sogaikan (alienation) is a classic theme of modernity.

近代的な知の枠組みそのものを疑う必要がある。

It is necessary to doubt the very framework of modern knowledge.

Chi no wakugumi means 'framework of knowledge'.

近代における植民地主義の影響を無視することはできない。

The influence of colonialism in the modern era cannot be ignored.

Shokuminchi-shugi is the term for colonialism.

近代的な都市計画が、コミュニティのあり方を変容させた。

Modern urban planning transformed the nature of communities.

Toshi keikaku means 'urban planning'.

Colocações comuns

近代化する

近代文学

近代建築

近代国家

近代社会

近代五種

近代合理主義

近代史

近代的な設備

近代美術

Frases Comuns

近代の幕開け

— The dawn of the modern era. Used to describe the very beginning of modernization.

明治維新は、日本の近代の幕開けだった。

近代的な感覚

— A modern sensibility. Used for someone with up-to-date tastes or views.

彼は近代的な感覚の持ち主だ。

近代の象徴

— A symbol of the modern era. Used for iconic buildings or inventions.

東京タワーはかつての近代の象徴だった。

近代化の波

— The wave of modernization. Used to describe the rapid spread of modern changes.

地方にも近代化の波が押し寄せた。

近代の息吹

— The breath of the modern era. Used poetically to describe the feeling of a new age.

街のあちこちに近代の息吹が感じられる。

近代への過渡期

— The transition period to the modern era. Used for the chaotic years of change.

幕末は近代への過渡期だった。

近代科学

— Modern science. Refers to science based on empirical evidence and rationalism.

近代科学の恩恵を受ける。

近代的なライフスタイル

— A modern lifestyle. Usually implies convenience and Western habits.

近代的なライフスタイルに憧れる。

近代思想

— Modern thought. Refers to the philosophies that shaped the modern world.

近代思想の源流を探る。

近代的なビル

— A modern building. Often used in real estate or travel descriptions.

駅前に近代的なビルが建った。

Frequentemente confundido com

近代 vs 現代 (Gendai)

Gendai is 'now' (post-1945). Kindai is 'modern-historical' (1868-1945).

近代 vs 近世 (Kinsei)

Kinsei is 'Early Modern' (Edo period, 1603-1868). It is before Kindai.

近代 vs 最新 (Saishin)

Saishin is 'the very latest' (e.g., technology). Kindai is an era.

Expressões idiomáticas

"近代稀に見る"

— Rarely seen in modern times. Used to emphasize how extraordinary something is.

これは近代稀に見る大事件だ。

Formal/Journalistic

"近代の申し子"

— A child of the modern era. Used for someone who perfectly embodies modern values.

彼はまさに近代の申し子と言える。

Literary

"近代の闇"

— The darkness of modernity. Refers to the negative side effects of progress.

近代の闇に葬られた事件。

Literary/Dramatic

"近代を築く"

— To build the modern era. Refers to the efforts of pioneers.

先人たちが日本の近代を築いた。

Formal

"近代に逆行する"

— To go against the modern era. Used for backward-thinking ideas.

その法案は近代に逆行するものだ。

Formal/Political

"近代に名を残す"

— To leave one's name in modern history.

彼は近代に名を残す偉人だ。

Formal

"近代の産物"

— A product of the modern era. Used for things that wouldn't exist without modernization.

ストレスは近代の産物だ。

Neutral

"近代化の旗手"

— A standard-bearer of modernization. A leader in the movement.

彼は教育近代化の旗手だった。

Formal

"近代の荒波"

— The rough waves of the modern era. Used for the difficulties of living in a fast-changing world.

近代の荒波にもまれる。

Literary

"近代の洗礼を受ける"

— To receive the baptism of modernity. To be influenced by modern ways for the first time.

その村もようやく近代の洗礼を受けた。

Literary

Fácil de confundir

近代 vs 現代 (Gendai)

Both translate as 'modern' in English.

Gendai is contemporary (today). Kindai is the era of the industrial revolution and the Meiji period.

現代のスマホ (Today's smartphone) vs 近代の歴史 (Modern history).

近代 vs モダン (Modan)

It is the katakana version of 'modern'.

Modan usually refers to a style or aesthetic (Western, sleek). Kindai is a time period or a social state.

モダンな家具 (Modern furniture) vs 近代の社会 (Modern society).

近代 vs 近世 (Kinsei)

Both start with 'Kin' (near).

Kinsei is the Edo period (samurai era). Kindai is the post-samurai, industrial era.

近世の浮世絵 (Edo-era Ukiyo-e) vs 近代の油絵 (Modern-era oil painting).

近代 vs 最近 (Saikin)

Contains 'Kin' and refers to time.

Saikin means 'recently' (last few days/weeks). Kindai is a multi-decade historical era.

最近忙しい (I've been busy lately) vs 近代化の歴史 (History of modernization).

近代 vs 当時 (Touji)

Both refer to a past time.

Touji means 'at that time' (specific point). Kindai is the name of the era itself.

当時の服装 (Clothing at that time) vs 近代の服装 (Modern-era clothing).

Padrões de frases

[Noun]は近代化しています。

日本は近代化しています。

近代的な[Noun]が好きです。

近代的なデザインの椅子が好きです。

近代の[Noun]について学びます。

近代の歴史について学びます。

近代化に伴い、[Sentence]。

近代化に伴い、人口が都市に集中した。

近代的な意味での[Noun]。

近代的な意味での自由を定義する。

近代における[Noun]の役割。

近代における女性の役割を考察する。

近代化の波が[Noun]に押し寄せる。

近代化の波が農村に押し寄せる。

近代の超克という[Noun]。

近代の超克という哲学的課題。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

近代化 (Modernization)

近代史 (Modern History)

近代文学 (Modern Literature)

近代性 (Modernity)

Verbos

近代化する (To modernize)

Adjetivos

近代的な (Modern-style/Na-adjective)

Relacionado

現代 (Gendai - Contemporary)

近世 (Kinsei - Early Modern)

古代 (Kodai - Ancient)

中世 (Chuusei - Medieval)

明治 (Meiji - The start of Kindai)

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Como usar

frequency

Common in academic, historical, and architectural contexts. Rare in casual daily chat about current events.

Erros comuns

Using 'Kindai' for 'Recently'. → 最近 (Saikin)
'Kindai' is a historical era. 'Saikin' means 'lately' or 'recently' in a personal or short-term sense.
Using 'Kindai' for 'Contemporary/Now'. → 現代 (Gendai)
If you are talking about the year 2024, use 'Gendai.' 'Kindai' usually stops at 1945.
Treating 'Kindai' as an I-adjective. → 近代的な (Kindai-teki na)
You cannot say 'kindaikunai.' You must use 'kindai-teki dewa nai' because it is a noun/na-adjective.
Using 'Kindaika' for personal changes. → 新しくする (Atarashiku suru)
'Kindaika' is for societies, industries, or systems. Don't use it for 'modernizing' your haircut.
Confusing 'Kindai' and 'Kinsei'. → 近代 (Kindai)
'Kinsei' is the Edo period (samurai). 'Kindai' is the post-samurai industrial era. They are very different!

Dicas

Historical Context

Always use 'Kindai' when referring to the Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa periods. It marks you as someone who knows Japanese history.

Connecting with 'No'

Since 'Kindai' is a noun, remember to use 'Kindai no' before other nouns, like 'Kindai no rekishi' (Modern history).

Kindai vs Gendai

Think of 'Kindai' as 'Modern History' and 'Gendai' as 'Current Events.' This distinction is key for B1+ learners.

Describing Buildings

Use 'Kindai-teki' for sleek, glass, or steel buildings. It implies a design that is 'modern' rather than 'traditional'.

University Nickname

In Osaka, if someone says 'I'm going to Kindai,' they mean Kinki University, not the modern era!

Using -ka (化)

Add 'ka' to 'Kindai' to discuss the process of change. 'Kindaika' is a powerful word for academic writing.

Modern Literature

If you like Japanese novels, learn 'Kindai Bungaku.' It covers the most famous authors like Soseki.

Rhymes with Jidai

It rhymes with 'Jidai' (era). Grouping these 'dai' words together makes them easier to remember.

Rationalism

'Kindai' often carries a nuance of being 'rational' or 'scientific' as opposed to 'superstitious' or 'traditional'.

Pentathlon

Remember 'Kindai Goshu' for the Olympics. It's a rare case where 'Kindai' is used in sports.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'KIN' as 'KINship' with the people who built the first factories, and 'DAI' as the 'DIal' on a steam engine. The era of kinship with the machine dial is 'Kindai.'

Associação visual

Visualize a samurai putting on a Western top hat. This image of 'mixing old and new' is the essence of the 'Kindai' era in Japan.

Word Web

History Meiji Industry Westernization Progress Literature Architecture Rationalism

Desafio

Try to find three buildings in your city that could be described as 'Kindai-teki' (modern-style) and explain why using the word.

Origem da palavra

The word is composed of two kanji: 近 (kin), meaning 'near' or 'close,' and 代 (dai), meaning 'generation,' 'era,' or 'period.' It was popularized during the Meiji era as a translation for the Western concept of 'Modern' or 'Modern Times.'

Significado original: Literally 'the near era' or 'the current generation.'

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Contexto cultural

When discussing 'Kindai' in a historical context, be aware that it includes the period of Japanese imperialism. In academic settings, 'Kindai' history is studied with a critical eye toward both progress and colonial expansion.

English speakers often use 'modern' for things that happened 5 minutes ago. In Japanese, 'Kindai' is more like 'The Gilded Age' or 'The Victorian/Edwardian Era' in terms of historical weight.

Natsume Soseki's novels (the pinnacle of Kindai literature). The Tokyo National Museum of Modern Art (MOMAT). Kindai University's 'Kindai Tuna' (a famous research success).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

History Class

近代史を専攻する
近代の幕開け
近代化の過程
近代日本の歩み

Architecture/Real Estate

近代的なデザイン
近代建築の保存
近代的な設備
近代的なオフィス

Literature/Art

近代文学の傑作
近代美術展
近代詩の表現
近代の小説家

Sports

近代五種競技
近代オリンピック
近代スポーツの発展
近代的なトレーニング

Sociology

近代社会の構造
近代的な価値観
近代家族の崩壊
近代化理論

Iniciadores de conversa

"日本の近代建築の中で、一番好きな建物は何ですか？ (What is your favorite modern building in Japan?)"

"あなたの国の近代化は、いつごろ始まりましたか？ (Around when did your country's modernization begin?)"

"近代文学と現代文学、どちらの方が興味がありますか？ (Are you more interested in modern literature or contemporary literature?)"

"近代的な生活の最も便利な点は何だと思いますか？ (What do you think is the most convenient point of a modern lifestyle?)"

"近代五種というスポーツを見たことがありますか？ (Have you ever seen the sport called the Modern Pentathlon?)"

Temas para diário

自分の住んでいる街にある近代的な建物について、その特徴を書いてみましょう。 (Write about the characteristics of a modern building in your city.)

もし近代（明治時代など）にタイムスリップできたら、何を見たいですか？ (If you could time slip to the modern era [like Meiji], what would you want to see?)

近代化が私たちの生活に与えた良い影響と悪い影響について考えてみましょう。 (Think about the good and bad influences modernization has had on our lives.)

好きな近代の作家や芸術家について、その魅力を説明してください。 (Explain the appeal of a modern author or artist you like.)

「近代的な考え方」とは、あなたにとってどのようなものですか？ (What does a 'modern way of thinking' mean to you?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Generally, no. For current technology, use 'Saishin' (latest) or 'Gendai' (contemporary). 'Kindai' technology would refer to things like early steam engines or the first telegraphs.

Most historians agree it starts with the Meiji Restoration in 1868, when Japan opened its borders and began rapid Westernization.

In a Japanese context, it usually ends in 1945 with the conclusion of World War II. The period after that is called 'Gendai'.

'Kindai' is a noun (the era). 'Kindai-teki' is a na-adjective meaning 'modern-style' or 'modern-like.' You use 'Kindai-teki' to describe a building's appearance.

You can use 'Kindai-teki na hito' to mean someone with modern, rational values, but it's more common to use 'Gendai-teki' for someone who is 'hip' or 'current'.

It refers to Japanese literature from the Meiji era to the early Showa era (roughly 1868-1945), featuring authors like Natsume Soseki and Akutagawa Ryunosuke.

It's a simple abbreviation: Kinki (近) + Daigaku (大) = Kindai. It's so famous that the university officially uses 'Kindai' in its English branding now.

Yes, it typically appears at the N3 and N2 levels, especially in reading passages about history or culture.

The word is '近代化' (Kindaika). You can turn it into a verb: '近代化する' (to modernize).

It is called '近代五種' (Kindai Goshu). It's one of the few sports where 'Kindai' is part of the official name.

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