合成洗剤

• Reading: ごうせいせんざい
• Romaji: gouseisenzai
• Kanji breakdown: 合 (gou) — combine, join; 成 (sei) — become, form; 洗 (sen) — wash; 剤 (zai) — agent, preparation
• Pronunciation: /ɡoː.seː.seɴ.za.i/

Meaning

Synthetic detergent. A cleaning agent made from chemical compounds rather than natural soap.

A compound noun referring to detergents manufactured from petroleum-based or synthetic chemicals, as opposed to natural soap (石鹸, sekken). Frequently discussed in environmental and consumer contexts, as 合成洗剤 can contribute to water pollution. The term appears in product labeling, environmental education, and household management discussions.

Examples

1. 環境のために合成洗剤を使わないようにしている。 I try to avoid using synthetic detergents for the sake of the environment.
2. 合成洗剤と石鹸の違いを授業で習った。 We learned about the difference between synthetic detergents and soap in class.
3. この合成洗剤は肌に優しい成分で作られている。 This synthetic detergent is made with skin-friendly ingredients.

Usage Guide

Context: environment, household, consumer goods

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 合成 (gousei: 合 combine + 成 form, i.e. synthetic/artificial) + 洗剤 (senzai: 洗 wash + 剤 agent/preparation). Literally 'synthetically composed washing agent.'

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal