境界 — meaning in English: boundary

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

Guess the translation for boundary

音

oto

けが

kega

ユニフォーム

yunifoomu

ロジック

rojikku

境界

kyoukai

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word '境界' (kyoukai) in discussions about physical and metaphorical boundaries, such as those between countries, personal space, or even emotional boundaries in relationships. For example, when discussing international relations, a speaker might refer to '境界線' (kyoukaisen) meaning 'border line' while debating over territorial disputes.

Synonyms & nuances

'境界' (kyoukai) is often interchangeable with '限界' (genkai), meaning 'limit', but '限界' emphasizes a more personal or psychological limitation, whereas '境界' focuses on a defined boundary between two entities. Choose '境界' when discussing external separations and '限界' when referring to internal constraints.

Culture

'境界' (kyoukai) has roots in the kanji '境' (kyo) meaning 'border' or 'boundary' and '界' (kai) meaning 'world' or 'realm'. This word not only signifies a physical separation but also conveys deeper philosophical ideas in Japanese culture, often reflecting societal boundaries, personal limits, and even the boundary between life and death in various literary works and folklore.

FAQ

Q.What does the word '境界' mean in English?

'境界' (kyoukai) translates to 'boundary' in English, referring to a physical or conceptual limit separating two entities or areas.

Q.How do you use '境界' in a sentence?

An example sentence could be: '私たちの国の境界は山脈によって決まっています。' (Watashitachi no kuni no kyoukai wa sanmyaku ni yotte kimatteimasu.) which means 'The boundary of our country is determined by the mountain range.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using '境界'?

A common mistake is to confuse '境界' with '境地' (kyouchi), which refers to a mental or emotional state rather than a physical boundary. Ensure context reflects the intended meaning of separation or limit.

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