結果 — meaning in English: result

Usage

Native speakers commonly use 結果 (kekka) in various contexts, especially when discussing outcomes of events, such as exam results or sports competitions. For instance, you might hear a teacher say, 'テストの結果はどうでしたか？' (How was your test result?), or a sports commentator might announce, '試合の結果は引き分けでした' (The result of the match was a tie).

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 結果 is 成果 (seika), which emphasizes achievements or fruits of efforts more than mere results. You might choose 結果 when referring to a general outcome, while 成果 would be more appropriate when celebrating achievements.

Culture

The word 結果 comes from the kanji 結 (to tie or bind) and 果 (fruit or result), which poetically implies the 'fruit' of your efforts. In Japanese culture, the outcome of an endeavor is often intertwined with the effort put in, reflecting a societal value placed on hard work and perseverance.

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