経験 — meaning in English: experience

Usage

Native speakers often use '経験' in conversations about professional life, education, or personal development. For instance, when discussing job qualifications, one might say, 'この仕事には多くの経験が必要です' (This job requires a lot of experience). It can also come up in casual discussions about life lessons, such as sharing travel or cultural experiences.

Synonyms & nuances

'経験' is often compared with '体験' (taiken), which specifically refers to direct, personal experiences, such as an adventure or an event. While both words can mean 'experience,' '経験' is broader and can include professional skills or knowledge gained over time, making it more suitable in formal contexts.

Culture

'経験' (keiken) has its roots in the kanji '経' (ke), meaning 'to pass through' or 'to go through,' and '験' (ken), meaning 'to test' or 'to verify.' This reflects the idea that experiences shape our understanding and skills. In Japanese culture, the value placed on '経験' is significant, often linked to the concept of lifelong learning and the wisdom gained from various life events.

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