分数 — meaning in English: Fraction

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

Guess the translation for fraction

分数

bunsū

役員

yakuin

敗北

haiboku

ショック

shokku

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Japanese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 分数 (bunsū) in educational settings, such as classrooms, when discussing mathematical concepts involving fractions. For example, a teacher might say, 'この分数を簡単にしてください' (Please simplify this fraction) during a math lesson. Additionally, it may appear in everyday conversations about cooking, where precise measurements are important.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 分数 (bunsū) is 割合 (wariai), which means 'ratio' or 'proportion.' While both involve comparisons of quantities, 分数 specifically refers to a numerical expression of parts of a whole, whereas 割合 might be used in contexts focusing more on relationships between values.

Culture

The word 分数 (bunsū) is derived from the kanji 分 (bun), meaning 'part' or 'divide,' and 数 (sū), meaning 'number.' This reflects the mathematical nature of fractions, which represent parts of a whole. Interestingly, the Japanese education system places a significant emphasis on mastering fractions early on, as they are foundational for more complex mathematics, making the understanding of this word essential for students.

FAQ

Q.What does 分数 mean in English?

分数 (bunsū) translates to 'fraction' in English, referring to a numerical representation of a part of a whole.

Q.How do you use 分数 in a sentence?

You can use 分数 in a sentence like this: 'この分数は簡単です' (This fraction is simple). It’s commonly used in both written and spoken Japanese, particularly in educational contexts.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 分数?

A common mistake is using 分数 when referring to percentages. It's important to remember that 分数 specifically denotes fractions, while パーセント (pāsento) is used for percentages.

Learn japanese with Maspeak →

Japanese 2000