作曲

• Reading: さっきょく
• Romaji: sakkyoku
• Kanji breakdown: 作 (saku) — make, create; 曲 (kyoku) — tune, melody, composition
• Pronunciation: /saʔ.kʲo.kɯ/

Meaning

Composition (of music). The act of creating a musical piece or writing music.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (作曲する). Refers specifically to composing music, not writing lyrics (which is 作詞). The person who composes is a 作曲家 (composer) or 作曲者. Common in discussions about music, entertainment, and the arts. Often paired with 作詞 in credits for songs.

Examples

1. 彼女は子供の頃からピアノで作曲をしている。 She has been composing music on the piano since she was a child.
2. この曲を作曲したのは有名な音楽家だ。 The one who composed this piece is a famous musician.
3. 作曲の仕事は想像力がとても大切だと思う。 I think imagination is very important in the work of composing music.

Usage Guide

Context: music, arts, entertainment

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 作 (saku, to make/create) and 曲 (kyoku, tune/melody). Together, 'making a melody' — the creative act of producing music.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal