唯物

• Reading: ゆいぶつ
• Romaji: yuibutsu
• Kanji breakdown: 唯 (yui/tada) — only, solely; 物 (butsu/mono) — matter, thing
• Pronunciation: /jɯiꜜbɯt͡sɯ/

Meaning

Materialism; the philosophical view that only matter exists.

A philosophical noun that rarely appears alone; typically appears in compounds such as 唯物論 (materialism), 唯物史観 (materialist view of history; Marxist historical materialism), and 唯物主義 (materialist philosophy). Contrasted with 唯心 (idealism). An academic and philosophical term encountered in formal essays and social commentary at N1 level.

Examples

1. 唯物史観によれば、歴史の発展は経済的な土台によって規定される。 According to historical materialism, the development of history is determined by the economic base.
2. 近代科学の発展は唯物的な世界観の普及を促した。 The advancement of modern science promoted the spread of a materialistic worldview.
3. 唯物論と観念論の対立は哲学史の根幹をなすテーマだ。 The conflict between materialism and idealism is a fundamental theme running through the history of philosophy.

Usage Guide

Context: philosophy, academic, political theory, history

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 唯 (only, solely) and 物 (matter, thing). Derived from Chinese philosophical terminology, contrasting with 唯心 (idealism, 'only mind'). Systematised in Japanese academic discourse during the Meiji period.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated