近世

• Reading: きんせい
• Romaji: kinsei
• Kanji breakdown: 近 (kin/chika) — near, recent, close; 世 (sei/yo) — era, world, generation
• Pronunciation: /kiɴ.seː/

Meaning

Early modern period; recent past in historical terms. In Japanese history, roughly the Edo period (1603–1868).

A noun used in historical contexts to refer to the early modern period. In Japanese historiography, 近世 specifically refers to the Edo period (1603–1868), distinct from 中世 (chuusei, medieval period) and 近代 (kindai, modern period from Meiji onwards). In Western history, it roughly corresponds to the early modern era. Commonly encountered in academic texts, history books, and cultural discussions.

Examples

1. 近世の日本は鎖国政策をとっていた。 Early modern Japan followed a policy of national isolation.
2. 近世文学の研究をしている教授に話を聞いた。 I spoke with a professor who researches early modern literature.
3. この城は近世に建てられたものだ。 This castle was built in the early modern period.

Usage Guide

Context: history, academia, literature, culture

Tone: academic

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 近 (kin, near/recent) + 世 (sei, era/age). Literally 'near era' — the historical period close to but not quite the modern age.

Cultural Context

Era: Historical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated