発見 — meaning in English: Discovery

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

Guess the translation for discovery

代理人

dairinin

マスター

masutā

プロ

puro

発見

hakken

提案

teian

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 発見 (hakken) in scientific discussions when referring to new findings or breakthroughs in research. It's also common in everyday conversations when discussing personal revelations or unexpected discoveries, such as finding a new favorite restaurant or realizing a hidden talent.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 見つける (mitsukeru), which means 'to find' but is more commonly used for tangible objects. 発見 (hakken) is preferable when discussing intellectual discoveries or insights, giving it a more profound context that often involves analysis or research.

Culture

The word 発見 (hakken) combines the kanji 発 (hatsu), meaning 'to reveal,' and 見 (ken), meaning 'to see.' This reflects a deeper cultural appreciation for enlightenment and insight, underscoring Japan's rich tradition in exploration, whether in science or philosophy. One famous historical figure associated with discovery is Shinichiro Tomonaga, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, whose work exemplifies the spirit of hakken in the pursuit of knowledge.

FAQ

Q.What does 発見 mean in English?

発見 (hakken) translates to 'discovery' in English. It refers to the act of finding something new, whether it's a scientific breakthrough or a personal insight.

Q.How do you use 発見 in a sentence?

You can use 発見 in sentences like '彼は新しい星を発見した' (Kare wa atarashii hoshi o hakken shita), which means 'He discovered a new star.' It fits well in both formal and casual contexts.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 発見?

A common mistake is using 発見 (hakken) exclusively for physical findings. Remember, it is best suited for significant revelations or discoveries, particularly in academic or philosophical discussions.

Learn japanese with Maspeak →

Japanese 2000