読書

• Reading: どくしょ
• Romaji: dokusho
• Kanji breakdown: 読 (doku) — read; 書 (sho) — write, book
• Pronunciation: /do.kɯ.ɕo/

Meaning

Reading; the act of reading books. A fundamental cultural and educational activity.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (読書する). Refers specifically to reading books for pleasure or study, not reading signs, emails, or other everyday text. Common compounds include 読書家 (avid reader) and 読書感想文 (book report). Considered a refined hobby in Japanese culture.

Examples

1. 週末はいつもカフェで読書を楽しんでいる。 I always enjoy reading at a café on weekends.
2. 子供の頃から読書が大好きだった。 I've loved reading ever since I was a kid.
3. 夏休みの宿題で読書感想文を書かなければならない。 I have to write a book report for my summer homework.

Usage Guide

Context: education, hobbies, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 読 (doku, to read) and 書 (sho, writing/book). Together, 'reading written works.'

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal