文明(ぶんめい)

ぶんめい
noun
civilization
1. civilization
An advanced state of human society characterized by developed culture, science, technology, and government.
古代(こだい)文明(ぶんめい)について学(まな)んだ。
I learned about ancient civilizations.
西洋(せいよう)文明(ぶんめい)が日本(にほん)に影響(えいきょう)を与(あた)えた。
Western civilization influenced Japan.
文明(ぶんめい)の利器(りき)を享受(きょうじゅ)する。
To enjoy the benefits of modern civilization.
文明の利器 = the conveniences/benefits of civilization

USAGE: 文明(ぶんめい) refers to large-scale human societies and their achievements. It often contrasts with nature or primitive states.

COMMON PATTERNS:

  • 古代(こだい)文明(ぶんめい) (ancient civilization)
  • 現代(げんだい)文明(ぶんめい) (modern civilization)
  • 西洋(せいよう)/東洋(とうよう)文明(ぶんめい) (Western/Eastern civilization)
  • 文明(ぶんめい)社会(しゃかい) (civilized society)
  • 文明(ぶんめい)の利器(りき) (conveniences of civilization)

CONTRAST:

  • 文化(ぶんか) - culture (more specific to arts, customs)
  • 文明(ぶんめい) - civilization (broader, technological/social development)

Related Words

Contrast: 文化(ぶんか) (culture)
general
Added 2026.1.13 0:35 · Revised 2026.1.19 21:17
03500/03611_bunmei