formal
common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 研究室 (kenkyūshitsu) primarily in academic settings, such as universities or research institutions. For example, a student might refer to their professor's 研究室 when discussing their research project or during lab meetings, emphasizing the collaborative and intellectual environment of the space.
Synonyms & nuances
While 研究室 specifically refers to a laboratory or research room, another similar term is 実験室 (jikken-shitsu), which means 'experiment room.' The difference lies in the focus: 研究室 emphasizes research and theoretical work, while 実験室 focuses on hands-on experiments. You would use 研究室 when discussing your research projects in a broader academic context, whereas 実験室 would be more suitable when referring to practical lab work.
Culture
The term 研究室 is derived from the words 研究 (kenkyū), meaning 'research,' and 室 (shitsu), meaning 'room' or 'chamber.' This makes it a very literal term for a space dedicated to inquiry and experimentation. In Japan, the concept of the laboratory is not just a physical space but a cultural hub of innovation where students and researchers often gather to share ideas and foster academic growth.
FAQ
Q.What does 研究室 mean in English?
研究室 (kenkyūshitsu) translates to 'laboratory' in English, specifically referring to a space designated for research and experiments, typically in an academic or scientific context.
Q.How do I use 研究室 in a sentence?
You can use 研究室 in sentences like, 'I spent the afternoon in the 研究室 working on my thesis,' or 'The professor invited us to visit his 研究室 to discuss our projects.'
Q.Are there common mistakes when using 研究室?
A common mistake is confusing 研究室 with 実験室. Remember that 研究室 is broader and includes theoretical research, while 実験室 refers specifically to a space for conducting experiments.