集中

• Reading: しゅうちゅう
• Romaji: shuuchuu
• Kanji breakdown: 集 (shuu) — to gather, collect; 中 (chuu) — middle, center
• Pronunciation: /ɕɯː.tɕɯː/

Meaning

Concentration; focusing. Directing attention or effort to one point.

A する verb used both transitively and intransitively. 集中する means to concentrate (勉強に集中する — to focus on studying) or to be concentrated in one area (人口が都市に集中している). 集中力 means concentration ability. Essential vocabulary for academic and work contexts.

Examples

1. 静かな場所でないと集中できない。 I can't concentrate unless I'm in a quiet place.
2. 試験前は勉強に集中しなければならない。 Before exams, I need to focus on studying.
3. 人口が大都市に集中している。 The population is concentrated in major cities.

Usage Guide

Context: study, work, daily life

Tone: focused

Origin & History

Compound of 集 (shuu, to gather) and 中 (chuu, middle/center). Literally 'gathering to the center' — bringing things or attention to a single focal point.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal