義務

• Reading: ぎむ
• Romaji: gimu
• Kanji breakdown: 義 (gi) — righteousness, justice, meaning; 務 (mu/tsuto) — duty, task, service
• Pronunciation: /ɡi.mɯ/

Meaning

Duty; obligation; responsibility. Something one is required to do.

A noun frequently paired with 権利 (right) in discussions about civic life. 義務教育 (compulsory education) is one of the most common compounds. Also used in 義務を果たす (to fulfil one's duty). Japanese compulsory education covers elementary and middle school (9 years).

Examples

1. 税金を払うのは国民の義務です。 Paying taxes is a citizen's duty.
2. 日本では九年間の義務教育があります。 In Japan, there are nine years of compulsory education.
3. 自分の義務を果たすことが大切です。 It's important to fulfill your obligations.

Usage Guide

Context: legal, education, civic life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 義 (righteousness, justice, meaning) and 務 (duty, task, service). Together they mean a task demanded by righteousness — a moral or legal obligation.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal