neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 工場 (kōjō) when discussing manufacturing, industry, or production settings. For instance, you might hear it in a conversation about job opportunities in a specific factory or when a person is describing their visit to a large production facility.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 製造所 (seizōsho), which specifically means 'manufacturing place.' While both terms can be used interchangeably in many contexts, 工場 (kōjō) is more commonly used in everyday conversation, while 製造所 (seizōsho) might appear in more technical or formal discussions about production.
Culture
The word 工場 (kōjō) has interesting roots in the kanji characters used. 工 (kō) means 'work' or 'craft,' while 場 (jō) means 'place' – together they evoke the idea of a place for work. Historically, Japan's industrialization in the Meiji era saw a significant growth in factories, reshaping the workforce and economy, making this word a prominent part of modern Japanese vocabulary.
FAQ
Q.What does 工場 mean in English?
工場 (kōjō) translates to 'factory' in English, referring to a place where goods are manufactured or assembled.
Q.How do you use 工場 in a sentence?
You can use 工場 in a sentence like: '彼は工場で働いています' (Kare wa kōjō de hataraite imasu), meaning 'He works at a factory.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 工場?
One common mistake is using 工場 to refer to all types of workplaces. Remember, it specifically denotes a manufacturing facility, not an office or service industry workplace.