体育

• Reading: たいいく
• Romaji: taiiku
• Kanji breakdown: 体 (tai) — body; 育 (iku) — nurture, raise, educate
• Pronunciation: /ta.i.i.kɯ/

Meaning

Physical education; gymnastics; athletics. The school subject and broader concept of physical training.

A noun most commonly associated with the school subject of PE. Also refers to physical training and athletics more broadly. Key compounds include 体育館 (taiikukan, gymnasium), 体育祭 (taiikusai, sports festival), and 体育の日 (taiiku no hi, Sports Day, a national holiday).

Examples

1. 今日の体育の授業はサッカーだった。 Today's PE class was soccer.
2. 体育館で卒業式が行われた。 The graduation ceremony was held in the gymnasium.
3. 体育が苦手な生徒もいる。 Some students aren't great at PE.

Usage Guide

Context: school, sports, education

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 体 (tai, body) and 育 (iku, nurture/raise). Literally 'nurturing the body,' reflecting the educational philosophy of physical development.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal