How Do You Spell YAKUSOKU?

Pronunciation: [jˈakjuːsˌə͡ʊkuː] (IPA)

The Japanese word "yakusoku" means "promise" in English. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /jaku.so.ku/. The first syllable "ya" is pronounced like "yah", while "ku" is pronounced like "koo". The "so" sound in the middle is pronounced like "saw". This word is often used in Japanese culture, from making personal commitments to promising in business deals. The spelling and pronunciation of "yakusoku" is an essential part of Japanese language learning.

YAKUSOKU Meaning and Definition

1. Yakusoku is a Japanese noun that translates to "promise" or "commitment" in English. It refers to a solemn declaration made by a person to fulfill a specified action or obligation. The term can also denote an agreement, assurance, or pledge given by one person to another, signifying their intention to carry out a certain action or meet a particular condition. Yakusoku is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and emphasizes the significance of keeping one's word.

   In Japanese society, yakusoku holds great value and is valued as a fundamental virtue. Making a yakusoku is seen as a moral obligation, and breaking one is considered a breach of trust or dishonesty. This concept is essential in interpersonal relationships, business dealings, and other areas of daily life, as it fosters a sense of reliability and accountability.

   Yakusoku can also be associated with the concept of trustworthiness and integrity. It reflects the commitment to honor one's word and to act with sincerity and loyalty. The importance of yakusoku is instilled in individuals from a young age, as they are taught to be true to their promises and consider the impact their commitment has on others.

   Overall, yakusoku encompasses the principles of honesty, responsibility, and respect in interpersonal relationships, forming an integral part of Japan's cultural fabric.

Etymology of YAKUSOKU

The word "yakusoku" (約束) is a noun in the Japanese language that means "promise" or "commitment". Its etymology can be traced back to the combination of two kanji characters:

1. 約 (yaku): This kanji means "promise", "agreement", or "contract". It is derived from the verb "yakusu" (約す), which means "to promise" or "to pledge". The 糸 (ito) radical in this kanji represents a string or bond that holds two people together. It signifies the connection made by a promise or agreement.

2. 束 (soku): This kanji character means "to tie" or "bundle". It is often used to represent things being bundled or tied together. In the context of "yakusoku", it symbolizes the idea of a binding commitment or obligation.