Kojien 7th Edition

The national dictionary has been completely revised for the first time in 10 years. The latest, more complete edition is finally here!

[Contents introduction] The latest edition of the national [Japanese language + encyclopedia] dictionary. The sixth edition has been completely revised to respond to advances in academic research and changes in society. 10,000 new entries have been added, and newly established meanings have been added to existing entries. Focus has also been placed on reviewing definitions of basic words and classical examples, making it easier to understand the differences in meaning of synonyms in particular. Comes with a convenient separate appendix that includes a small kanji dictionary.

[Features of the seventh edition] 1 Written by leading experts in various fields The entries included in the sixth edition have been extracted by field and thoroughly proofread by experts in various fields. From literature and history to physics and medicine, art and music, martial arts and tea ceremony, and sports and subculture, the explanations have been revised to reflect advances in academic research and the latest trends, and to be more accurate and concise. At the same time, new words essential for understanding modern life and each field have been selected and written.

2 Observing changes in words and differences in meaning

As the world changes rapidly, the meanings of words also change. We added the newly created meanings without excess or deficiency, while carefully examining their degree of establishment. In addition, as opportunities to communicate words increase, the need to accurately grasp and express the meaning of each word is also increasing. We pursued definitions that allow users to understand the differences in meaning of synonyms, focusing on verbs and adjectives.

3 Reviewing the basics of Japanese

The style of Kojien is to properly grasp the fundamental meaning of words and then provide definitions in line with historical changes in meaning. Returning to this basics, we have comprehensively reviewed examples quoted from classics such as the Manyoshu and the Tale of Genji. Other archaic language entries have also been further enhanced.

4 Added 10,000 new entries (total number of entries: 250,000 [including appendix])

In addition to words collected after the publication of the sixth edition, we have re-examined words that were not adopted in previous editions and carefully selected words that have become established in Japanese or are thought to become established. The number of newly added entries has reached approximately 10,000. In this age where you can search for anything on the internet, we have removed unnecessary words and added sophisticated definitions so that you can grasp the core meaning beyond the context of the word's use at a glance.

5 Further improved paper and binding quality The seventh edition has 140 more pages than the sixth edition, but the thickness remains the same. This is the result of developing even thinner paper to fit within the 8cm limit of the binding machine. Moreover, the "slippery feel" that sticks to your hand and makes it easy to turn the pages is still maintained. This is compiled into one volume using advanced printing and binding technology. The large "desktop version" is a two-volume version that has been well received by many people.