着工

ちゃっこう

start of (construction) work

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"着工" (ちゃっこう) specifically refers to the start of construction work or building projects. It is a formal term often used in business, engineering, and official announcements related to construction.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "着工" in news reports about new buildings, infrastructure projects, or public works. It marks the official beginning of physical work on a site after planning and permits are completed.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 着工する: to start construction
  • 着工前: before starting construction
  • 着工が遅れる: construction start is delayed

These phrases are common in project management and construction discussions.

Register and Nuance

"着工" is a formal noun and is rarely used in casual conversation. It is appropriate in written reports, formal speeches, and professional settings.

Learner Tips

Do not confuse "着工" with "開始" (start) which is more general. "着工" is specific to construction or building work. When using it, ensure the context clearly involves construction or engineering projects.

Example Sentences

あたらしいビルのちゃっこうはらいげつのよていです。

The start of construction for the new building is scheduled for next month.

ちゃっこうまえにひつようなきょかをすべてしゅとくしました。

We obtained all the necessary permits before starting construction.

こうじのちゃっこうがおくれたため、かんせいもおくれそうです。

Because the start of construction was delayed, the completion also seems likely to be delayed.