便(べんらん)

べんらん
noun
handbook; manual; reference guide
1. handbook; manual; reference guide; compendium
A concise reference book that organizes essential information on a subject for quick lookup. Often used for practical, technical, or educational purposes.
化学(かがく)便覧(べんらん)調(しら)べる。
To look something up in a chemistry handbook.
学生(がくせい)便覧(べんらん)履修(りしゅう)方法(ほうほう)()っている。
The course registration process is listed in the student handbook.
この便覧(べんらん)には日本(にほん)統計(とうけい)データが()かりやすくまとめられている。
This reference guide compiles Japan's statistical data in an easy-to-understand format.

A compound of 便(べん) (convenient) and (らん) (viewing/reading). Implies a practical, quick-reference publication rather than an in-depth textbook.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 化学(かがく)便覧(べんらん): chemistry handbook
  • 学生(がくせい)便覧(べんらん): student handbook
  • 統計(とうけい)便覧(べんらん): statistical compendium
  • 便覧(べんらん)参照(さんしょう)する: to consult a handbook

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • ハンドブック: handbook (loanword) — more commonly used in modern everyday contexts
  • マニュアル: manual — implies step-by-step instructions rather than quick reference
  • 辞典(じてん): dictionary/encyclopedia — organized alphabetically or by topic with fuller entries
  • 要覧(ようらん): summary guide — similar format but emphasizes giving an overview