Japanese word

勲章

Pronunciation

Romajikunshō

Meaning

  • nounmedal

Example

彼は国から勲章を受けました。kare wa kuni ka ra kun shō o u ke ma shi ta

He received a medal from the state.

Illustration for 勲章 (medal)

More examples

式典では、受章者が勲章を胸に着けていました。shiki ten de wa ju shō sha ga kun shō o mune ni tsu ke te i ma shi ta

At the ceremony, the recipients were wearing their medals on their chests.

Core concept

It is a visible honor that a state or organization awards for notable service or achievement.

Common phrases

  • 勲章を胸に着けるkun shō o mune ni tsu ke ru

    wear a medal on one's chest

  • 勲章を授与されるkun shō o ju yo sa re ru

    be awarded a medal

Similar words

メダルmedaru: A metal disk or similar object given to mark an achievement, victory, or honor.
記章kishō: An official emblem or badge that represents an honor granted for service or achievement.

Definition in Japanese

功績や功労を認めた国家や団体が、その証として授与する栄誉のしるし。kō seki ya kō rō o mito me ta kok ka ya dan tai ga so no akashi to shi te ju yo su ru ei yo no shi ru shi

Word origin

勲 (kun, "merit") and 章 (shō, "badge or emblem") combine as the Sino-Japanese compound 勲章 (kunshō, "medal").

Usage tips

  • In English-language writing about national honors, a medal is usually the object, while a decoration can refer to the official honor itself, a distinction useful when translating 勲章 (kunshō).

Other meanings

  • decorationnoun
  • ordernoun

Word lists with this word