Japanese word

改革

Pronunciation

Romajikaikaku

Meaning

  • nounreform

Example

教育の改革が必要です。kyō iku no kai kaku ga hitsu yō de su

Education reform is necessary.

Illustration for 改革 (reform)

More examples

市は交通制度の改革を計画しています。shi wa kō tsū sei do no kai kaku o kei kaku shi te i ma su

The city is planning to reform its transportation system.

Core concept

Describes changing an established system or practice so it works in a better and more suitable way.

Common phrases

  • 改革を求めるkai kaku o moto me ru

    call for reform

  • 改革を実施するkai kaku o jis shi su ru

    implement reform

  • 改革を主導するkai kaku o shu dō su ru

    lead reform

Similar words

改善kaizen: A change that makes an existing system or practice better in a practical way.
変革henkaku: A fundamental change that reshapes an established system or practice.

Definition in Japanese

社会や制度などの仕組みを、よりよいものに改めること。sha kai ya sei do na do no shi ku mi o yo ri yo i mo no ni arata me ru ko to

Word origin

改革 (kaikaku) is a Sino-Japanese compound of 改 (kai, "change or correct") and 革 (kaku, "change or reform").

Usage tips

  • The phrase 働き方改革 (hatarakikata kaikaku) is widely used for changes to work practices, especially working hours and workplace rules.

Other meanings

  • reorganizationnoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word