発展する

• Reading: はってんする
• Romaji: hatten suru
• Kanji breakdown: 発 (hatsu) — to emit, release; 展 (ten) — to spread, unfold
• Pronunciation: /hat.teɴ.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To develop; to expand; to flourish. Describes the advancement of cities, economies, industries, or relationships.

A する verb formed from the noun 発展 (development/expansion). Used for large-scale growth: cities developing, economies expanding, industries advancing. Can also describe relationships progressing or situations escalating. 発展途上国 (developing country) is a key compound.

Examples

1. この地域はここ十年で大きく発展した。 This area has developed significantly over the past ten years.
2. 技術の発展により生活が便利になった。 Advances in technology have made life more convenient.
3. 二人の友情は恋愛へと発展していった。 Their friendship gradually developed into romance.

Usage Guide

Context: economics, urban planning, technology

Tone: progressive

Origin & History

Compound of 発 (hatsu, to emit/release) and 展 (ten, to spread/unfold). Together they describe something unfolding outward — expanding and progressing.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal