主題

• Reading: しゅだい
• Romaji: shudai
• Kanji breakdown: 主 (shu/nushi) — main, master; 題 (dai) — topic, title, problem
• Pronunciation: /ɕɯ.da.i/

Meaning

Subject; theme; motif. The central topic or main idea of a work, discussion, or piece of music.

A formal noun used in literature, music, art, and academic discussions to identify the central theme. In music, 主題 refers to the main melodic theme (as in 主題歌, theme song). In essays and research, it means the central topic or thesis. More formal and specific than テーマ, which is used more casually.

Examples

1. この小説の主題は人間の孤独だ。 The theme of this novel is human loneliness.
2. 映画の主題歌が大ヒットした。 The movie's theme song became a huge hit.
3. レポートの主題を明確にしてから書き始めよう。 Let's clarify the central topic of the report before we start writing.

Usage Guide

Context: literature, music, academic writing

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 主 (shu, main/master) + 題 (dai, topic/title). Literally 'the main topic,' a classical term used in literary and artistic criticism since pre-modern times.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal