貢献

• Reading: こうけん
• Romaji: kouken
• Kanji breakdown: 貢 (kō) — tribute, contribution; 献 (ken) — offer, present, dedicate
• Pronunciation: /koː.keɴ/

Meaning

Contribution; service. Making a meaningful positive impact on something or someone.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (貢献する). Used for positive contributions to society, a team, a field of study, or the environment. Takes the particle に for the recipient of the contribution. Common patterns include 社会に貢献する (to contribute to society) and 大きな貢献 (great contribution). Carries a formal, appreciative tone.

Examples

1. 彼の研究は医学の発展に大きく貢献した。 His research greatly contributed to the advancement of medicine.
2. ボランティア活動で地域社会に貢献したい。 I want to contribute to the local community through volunteer work.
3. この技術は環境保護に貢献している。 This technology is contributing to environmental protection.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, social, business

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

Compound of 貢 (kō, tribute/offering) and 献 (ken, to offer/present). Together, 'offering a tribute' — providing something valuable for a greater good.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal