JAPANESE NUMERALS Meaning and
Definition
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Japanese numerals, also known as kanji numerals, are a set of numerals used in the Japanese language for counting, writing numbers, and expressing numerical values. These numerals are an important aspect of the Japanese writing system and are derived from Chinese numerals.
The Japanese numeral system consists of two sets of characters: the native Japanese numerals and the Sino-Japanese numerals. The native Japanese numerals are used for counting objects, stating one's age, and giving the time of day. These numerals are relatively simpler in form and are written using a combination of hiragana characters. The native numerals include the symbols for numbers one to ten, hundred, thousand, ten thousand, and hundred million.
On the other hand, Sino-Japanese numerals are used for most mathematical calculations, monetary values, dates, addresses, and other occasions where precision is necessary. These numerals are written using kanji characters, which are borrowed from ancient Chinese writings. Sino-Japanese numerals are more complex in form and include symbols for numbers zero to ten, and powers of ten up to 10,000.
Japanese numerals present challenges for learners due to their different forms and applications. However, learning these numerals is essential for understanding and communicating numbers in the Japanese language. They add depth to the language and facilitate clear expression of numerical values in various contexts, from everyday conversation to formal documents.
Etymology of JAPANESE NUMERALS
The word "Japanese" refers to the language, people, and culture of Japan. It is ultimately derived from the Chinese word "riben", which means "origin of the sun" or "sun's origin". This term was used by the Chinese to refer to Japan due to its eastern geographical location from China.
The term "numerals" refers to symbols used to represent numbers. It has its roots in the Latin word "numerālis", which means "pertaining to number". The word "numerus" in Latin means "number".
Therefore, the term "Japanese numerals" refers to the number symbols used in the Japanese language for counting and expressing numerical values.
