侵略 — meaning in English: Invasion

shinryaku · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for invasion

階層

kaisō

侵略

shinryaku

小教区

shōkyōku

世帯

setai

ミステリー

misuterī

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formal common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 侵略 (shinryaku) primarily in discussions about military conflicts or historical events, where invasion or aggressive expansion is being described. It can be heard in news reports, documentaries, and academic discussions about Japan's past, such as the invasions during World War II or the Mongol invasions.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 攻撃 (kōgeki), meaning 'attack,' which refers more to the act of aggression rather than the broader concept of invasion. You would use 侵略 (shinryaku) when referring specifically to the invasion of territory or sovereignty, while 攻撃 (kōgeki) could apply to various forms of assault.

Culture

The term 侵略 (shinryaku) is deeply embedded in Japan's historical consciousness, particularly due to the country's experiences during World War II. It emphasizes the severity of military actions and the impact of invasions on nations and cultures. Interestingly, the kanji 侵 (shin) means 'to invade,' while 略 (ryaku) means 'to seize,' showcasing the aggressive nature of the term.

FAQ

Q.What does 侵略 mean in English?

The Japanese word 侵略 (shinryaku) translates to 'invasion' in English, specifically referring to the act of invading a territory, often with military force.

Q.How do you use 侵略 in a sentence?

You can use 侵略 (shinryaku) in sentences like '日本は歴史的に侵略を経験した' (Nihon wa rekishiteki ni shinryaku o keiken shita), which means 'Japan has historically experienced invasions.'

Q.What are common mistakes when using 侵略?

A common mistake is using 侵略 (shinryaku) when discussing non-military takeovers, such as corporate mergers or cultural appropriation, where terms like 支配 (shihai, domination) or 侵入 (shinnyū, intrusion) would be more appropriate.

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