所有

しょゆう

one's possessions, ownership

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"所有" (しょゆう) refers to the concept of ownership or possession, often used in formal or legal contexts. It indicates that someone has legal rights or control over something, such as property, land, or objects.

Common Contexts

This word is frequently used when discussing property rights, legal ownership, or possessions in a formal setting. It is less common in casual conversation where simpler words like "持っている" (to have) might be used.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 所有する: to own or possess something, often used in formal writing.
  • 所有権: ownership rights, a legal term.
  • 所有物: possessions or belongings.

Usage Notes

When using "所有," the nuance is often about legal or formal possession rather than casual holding. Learners should avoid confusing it with "持つ," which is more general and informal. "所有" is typically used in written language, official documents, or serious discussions about property.

Example Sentences

かれはおおくのとちをしょゆうしている。

He owns a lot of land.

このかいしゃのしょゆうけんはだれにありますか?

Who holds the ownership rights of this company?

しょゆうぶつはたいせつにあつかうべきだ。

One should treat their possessions with care.