合唱

• Reading: がっしょう
• Romaji: gasshou
• Kanji breakdown: 合 (gou/gas) — together, join; 唱 (shou) — chant, recite, sing
• Pronunciation: /ɡaɕ.ɕoː/

Meaning

Chorus; singing together in unison or harmony as a group.

A noun and suru verb describing group singing. A cornerstone of Japanese school culture through 合唱コンクール (chorus competitions) held at many schools. Also refers to choral performance in churches, concert halls, and community events. Distinguished from 独唱 (solo singing).

Examples

1. 卒業式で全校生徒が校歌を合唱した。 All the students sang the school song together at the graduation ceremony.
2. 合唱コンクールに向けて毎日練習している。 We practice every day for the chorus competition.
3. 教会で美しい合唱が響いていた。 A beautiful chorus echoed through the church.

Usage Guide

Context: school events, music, ceremonies

Tone: warm

Origin & History

Compound of 合 (together, join) + 唱 (chant, recite, sing). The combination conveys the act of raising voices together in song.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal