計算

• Reading: けいさん
• Romaji: keisan
• Kanji breakdown: 計 (kei) — measure, count, plan; 算 (san) — calculate, count
• Pronunciation: /keː.saɴ/

Meaning

Calculation; computation; reckoning. The process of working out a numerical or logical result.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (計算する). Used for mathematical calculations, financial accounting, and figuratively for strategic thinking (計算高い — calculating/shrewd). Common in school, business, and everyday contexts like splitting bills. Related terms include 計算機 (calculator) and 暗算 (mental arithmetic).

Examples

1. この計算は間違っていないか確認してください。 Please check whether this calculation is correct.
2. 彼女は暗算で複雑な計算ができる。 She can do complex calculations in her head.
3. 旅行の費用を計算したら思ったより高かった。 When I calculated the cost of the trip, it was more expensive than I thought.

Usage Guide

Context: mathematics, business, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 計 (kei, to measure/count) and 算 (san, to calculate). The kanji 算 depicts counting rods on a table (竹 bamboo + 目 eyes + 廾 hands), the ancient method of arithmetic.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal