初等(しょとう)

しょとう
noun, no-adjective
elementary; primary; introductory
formaleducation
1. elementary; primary; introductory; beginning level
The first or most basic level of something, especially in education. Refers to the foundational stage before advancing to higher levels.
初等(しょとう)教育(きょういく)は大切(たいせつ)だ。
Elementary education is important.
初等(しょとう)数学(すうがく)から学(まな)び直(なお)す。
I'm relearning from elementary mathematics.
この講座(こうざ)は初等(しょとう)レベルの内容(ないよう)なので、初心者(しょしんしゃ)でも安心(あんしん)して参加(さんか)できる。
This course covers introductory-level content, so even beginners can participate with confidence.

Usage

Primarily used as a prefix in compound words. 初等(しょとう)教育(きょういく) refers to primary/elementary education (grades 1-6 in Japan). Part of a series: 初等(しょとう) (elementary) → 中等(ちゅうとう) (intermediate/secondary) → 高等(こうとう) (higher/advanced).

Common collocations

Similar words

Related Words

Related: 中等(ちゅうとう) (intermediate)
Related: 高等(こうとう) (advanced)
general
Added 2026.3.15 9:18 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
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