細胞

さいぼう

cell

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Understanding 細胞 (さいぼう)

The word 細胞 means "cell" in a biological context, referring to the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms. It is a scientific term commonly used in biology, medicine, and related fields.

Usage and Context

細胞 is primarily used when discussing biology, health, or medicine. It appears in scientific explanations, textbooks, and conversations about the human body or living organisms. It is a formal term and not used in casual conversation unless the topic is scientific.

Common Collocations and Patterns

  • 細胞分裂 (さいぼうぶんれつ): cell division, a fundamental biological process.
  • 細胞の働き (さいぼうのはたらき): cell function or activity.
  • 細胞を調べる (さいぼうをしらべる): to examine cells, often in medical tests.

Tips for Learners

When using 細胞, remember it is a noun specific to biology. Avoid confusing it with other words for "part" or "unit". It often appears in compound words related to biological processes. Using it correctly shows a good grasp of scientific vocabulary at the N1 level.

Example Sentences

にんげんのからだはやくろくじゅうちょうこのさいぼうでできています。

The human body is made up of about 60 trillion cells.

さいぼうぶんれつはせいぶつのせいちょうにかかせないかていです。

Cell division is an essential process for the growth of living organisms.

このくすりはさいぼうのはたらきをたすけるこうかがあります。

This medicine has the effect of helping cell function.