配給

はいきゅう

distribution (e.g., films, rice

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 配給 (はいきゅう) primarily refers to the act of distributing or supplying goods, services, or resources. It is often used in formal or official contexts such as film distribution, rationing during wartime, or emergency supplies during disasters.

Common Contexts

  1. Film and Media: 配給 is commonly used to describe the distribution of movies or media content by companies responsible for releasing them to theaters or platforms.
  2. Rationing and Supply Control: Historically and in emergencies, 配給 refers to the controlled distribution of essential goods like food, water, or fuel.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 配給会社 (はいきゅうがいしゃ): distribution company, especially for films or goods.
  • 食料の配給 (しょくりょうのはいきゅう): food distribution or rationing.
  • 配給を受ける (はいきゅうをうける): to receive a distribution or ration.

Usage Notes

When using 配給, the context usually involves an organized or official distribution rather than casual sharing. It often implies limited availability or controlled allocation. Learners should not confuse 配給 with 配る (くばる), which means to hand out or distribute in a more general or informal sense.

Register

配給 is a formal noun and is often seen in news, official announcements, or historical contexts. It is not typically used in casual conversation unless discussing these specific topics.

Example Sentences

えいがのはいきゅうがいしゃがしんさくのこうかいびをはっぴょうした。

The film distribution company announced the release date of the new movie.

せんじちゅうはしょくりょうのはいきゅうがきびしくかんりされていた。

During the war, food distribution was strictly controlled.

さいがいじにはみずやしょくりょうのはいきゅうがおこなわれる。

During disasters, water and food distribution is carried out.