永久

えいきゅう

eternity, perpetuity, immortality

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"永久" (yǒngjiǔ) means something that lasts forever or for a very long time without change. It is often used to describe relationships, agreements, or states that are intended to be permanent.

Common Collocations

  • 永久友谊 (lasting friendship): used to describe a friendship meant to endure indefinitely.
  • 永久保存 (permanent preservation): often used for artifacts, buildings, or records meant to be kept forever.
  • 永久合同 (permanent contract): a contract without a fixed end date, implying ongoing cooperation.

Usage Notes

"永久" is a formal and strong term, implying no foreseeable end. It is more emphatic than words like "长久" (long-lasting) or "持久" (durable). Avoid using it for temporary or uncertain durations.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "永久" with "永远" (yǒngyuǎn), which means "forever" in a more abstract or emotional sense, often used in promises or expressions of eternal feelings. "永久" is more concrete and often used in formal or legal contexts.

Example Sentences

They established a lasting friendship.

This building was designed to be preserved permanently.

A permanent contract means long-term cooperation between both parties.