Japanese word

絶対的

Pronunciation

Romajizettaiteki

Meaning

  • na-adjectiveabsolute

Example

この考えは絶対的なものではありません。ko no kanga e wa zet tai teki na mo no de wa a ri ma se n

This idea is not absolute.

Illustration for 絶対的 (absolute)

More examples

この制度では、上司の命令が絶対的なものとされています。ko no sei do de wa jō shi no mei rei ga zet tai teki na mo no to sa re te i ma su

In this system, the boss's orders are treated as absolute.

Core concept

Presents a quality as complete and valid in itself, without depending on a particular viewpoint, situation, or condition.

Common phrases

  • 絶対的な権力zet tai teki na ken ryoku

    absolute power

  • 絶対的な基準zet tai teki na ki jun

    absolute standard

  • 絶対的な真理zet tai teki na shin ri

    absolute truth

Similar words

絶対zettai: Expresses complete validity or authority that does not depend on a particular situation.

Definition in Japanese

周囲の事情や特定の基準に依存せず、完全に確かなさま。shū i no ji jō ya toku tei no ki jun ni i zon se zu kan zen ni tashi ka na sa ma

Word origin

As a Sino-Japanese formation, 絶対 (zettai, "absolute") joins 絶 (zetsu, "cut off") and 対 (tai, "opposition"); adding 的 (teki, "relating to") creates the adjective.

Usage tips

  • 絶対的 (zettaiteki) has a formal, abstract tone and often describes ideas such as authority, value, or truth rather than a speaker's immediate certainty.

Other meanings

  • unconditionalna-adjective

Opposites

  • 相対的sōtaitekirelativena-adjective

Related words

  • 絶対性zettaiseiabsolutenessnoun
  • 絶対視zettaishitreating as absolutenoun

Word lists with this word