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日本語
裁判所 — meaning in English: court
saibansho · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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court
裁判所
saibansho
コーナー
ディスプレイ
disupurei
関心
kanshin
場所
basho
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formal
common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 裁判所 (saibansho) when discussing legal matters, such as court hearings or lawsuits. You might hear it in news reports about high-profile trials or during legal consultations when an individual seeks advice regarding their case in a Japanese courtroom.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 法廷 (houtei), which refers specifically to a courtroom within the court. While 裁判所 encompasses the entire court structure, including administrative functions, 法廷 focuses on the physical space where legal proceedings occur. You would choose 裁判所 when discussing the court system as a whole and 法廷 for discussions centered on actual trials.
Culture
The term 裁判所 is deeply embedded in Japan's legal system, which has evolved significantly since the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century. Interestingly, the kanji 裁 (sai) means 'to judge' or 'to decide,' while 判 (han) signifies 'to judge' and 所 (sho) translates to 'place.' This reflects the court's role as a place where judgment is rendered, embodying the crucial balance of justice in Japanese society.
FAQ
