Jiten

Jiten is a Japanese term that translates to "dictionary" or "lexicon." It is a comprehensive collection of words, their meanings, and often their pronunciations, etymologies, and usage examples. Jitens are essential tools for language learners, linguists, and anyone interested in the Japanese language. They come in various forms, including print dictionaries, digital databases, and mobile applications.

The most well-known Jiten is the "Kojien," a comprehensive Japanese dictionary published by the Sanseido publishing company. It is renowned for its extensive coverage of kanji characters, their readings, and their meanings. Another notable Jiten is the "Daijirin," published by the Shogakukan publishing company, which is known for its user-friendly layout and extensive examples of word usage.

Jitens are not limited to Japanese. There are Jitens for many other languages, such as the Oxford English Dictionary for English and the Duden for German. These dictionaries serve similar purposes, providing definitions, pronunciations, and usage examples for words in their respective languages.

In the digital age, Jitens have evolved to include online databases and mobile applications. These digital Jitens often offer additional features such as audio pronunciations, synonyms, antonyms, and even translations into multiple languages. They are convenient for quick lookups and are widely used by language learners and professionals alike.