教養

• Reading: きょうよう
• Romaji: kyouyou
• Kanji breakdown: 教 (kyou) — teach, instruct; 養 (you) — nurture, cultivate, foster
• Pronunciation: /kjoː.joː/

Meaning

Culture; education; cultivation; refinement. General knowledge and sophistication gained through learning.

A noun referring to the breadth of knowledge and cultural awareness a person has acquired through education and experience. Not limited to formal education — it encompasses appreciation of arts, literature, and social awareness. Common collocations include 教養がある (kyouyou ga aru, to be cultured), 一般教養 (ippan kyouyou, general education/liberal arts), and 教養を身につける (kyouyou wo mi ni tsukeru, to cultivate one's education). Often used as a measure of personal refinement.

Examples

1. 幅広い教養を身につけることが大学の目標だ。 The goal of a university education is to develop a broad general knowledge.
2. 彼は教養のある人で、どんな話題にも詳しい。 He is a well-educated man who is knowledgeable on any topic.
3. 教養番組を見るのが毎週の楽しみになっている。 Watching educational programs has become a weekly pleasure.

Usage Guide

Context: education, self-improvement, media

Tone: positive

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 教 (kyou, teach/instruct) + 養 (you, nurture/cultivate). Literally 'teaching and nurturing' — the cultivation of knowledge and character through learning.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal