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日本語
品種 — meaning in English: Variety
hinshu · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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breed
パブ
pabu
品種
hinshu
少数派
shōsuhā
スピーチ
supīchi
月
tsuki
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers typically use the word 品種 (hinshu) when discussing categories of plants, animals, or products, particularly in agriculture or horticulture. For instance, it might come up in conversations about different varieties of rice or flowers at a local market or in a botanical garden.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 種類 (shurui), which means 'type' or 'category.' While 種類 (shurui) can refer to various classifications in a broad sense, 品種 (hinshu) specifically implies a distinct variety often used in botanical contexts, making it more precise when discussing agriculture or breeding.
Culture
The word 品種 (hinshu) combines the characters 品 (hin), meaning 'goods' or 'quality,' and 種 (shu), meaning 'seed' or 'species.' This reflects the Japanese cultural appreciation for the quality and diversity of nature, especially in traditional practices like agriculture and flower arranging. Over centuries, the concept of variety has evolved not only in farming but also in cuisine, showcasing the importance of different regional ingredients.
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