(はんさよう)

はんさよう
noun
reaction; counteraction; recoil (physics)
1. reaction; counteraction; recoil (physics)
In physics, the equal and opposite force described by Newton's Third Law. Describes phenomena such as the recoil of a gun or the thrust that propels a rocket.
作用(さよう)反作用(はんさよう)法則(ほうそく)
The law of action and reaction.
ロケットは反作用(はんさよう)原理(げんり)()ぶ。
Rockets fly on the principle of reaction.
(じゅう)()つと反作用(はんさよう)(からだ)()(もど)される。
When you fire a gun, the recoil pushes your body back.
2. backlash; adverse reaction; unintended consequence
Figurative use.
(きゅう)改革(かいかく)反作用(はんさよう)()た。
There was a backlash from the rapid reforms.
(くすり)反作用(はんさよう)注意(ちゅうい)する。
To watch out for adverse reactions to medication.
規制(きせい)(つよ)めた反作用(はんさよう)で、かえって違反(いはん)()えた。
As an unintended consequence of tightening regulations, violations actually increased.

In physics, refers to Newton's Third Law: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In general use, it describes negative consequences or pushback that result from an action.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 作用(さよう)反作用(はんさよう): action and reaction
  • 反作用(はんさよう)法則(ほうそく): law of reaction
  • 反作用(はんさよう)(しょう)じる: a reaction occurs

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 副作用(ふくさよう): side effect — specifically for medication or treatment side effects
  • 反動(はんどう): recoil, backlash — emphasizes the swing-back effect; also used politically
  • 反発(はんぱつ): repulsion, opposition — emphasizes emotional or social resistance