Japanese · Culture & Society
学校
gakkou
School
Definition
An educational institution. The Japanese school year begins in April and includes rigorous entrance examinations at each stage from middle school through university.
Example
学校は九時に始まります。
School starts at nine o'clock.
Etymology
'学校' (gakkou) combines '学' (gaku, meaning 'study') and '校' (kou, meaning 'school'), denoting an institution for learning. The concept of formal schooling in Japan developed during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century.
How & Where It’s Used
'学校' is commonly used in formal contexts, primarily in relation to education, and appears in both spoken and written forms. It is applicable nationwide, encompassing a variety of educational institutions.
Literary Heritage
Reflected in various educational policies and contexts within modern Japanese literature.