創刊

そうかん

launching (e.g., newspaper, first issue)

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"創刊" specifically refers to the launching or first publication of periodicals such as newspapers, magazines, or journals. It is a formal term often used in media and publishing contexts.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "創刊" used when talking about the first issue of a magazine or newspaper, commemorative events related to the launch, or announcements about new publications.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 創刊号 (そうかんごう): first issue of a publication
  • 創刊記念 (そうかんきねん): commemorating the launch
  • 創刊する: to launch or start publishing

Register and Nuance

"創刊" is a formal noun and verb form used in written and formal spoken Japanese, especially in journalism and publishing. It is not used for launching products or services outside of publications.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "創刊" with "開始" (start/begin) or "発行" (issue/publish). Remember, "創刊" is specifically about the first issue of a periodical, not just any start or publication.

Example Sentences

このざっしは1990ねんにそうかんされました。

This magazine was launched in 1990.

しんぶんのそうかんごうをきねんしてとくべつイベントがかいさいされる。

A special event will be held to commemorate the newspaper's first issue.

あたらしいしゅうかんしのそうかんにおおくのきたいがよせられている。

There are high expectations for the launch of the new weekly magazine.