Meaning and Usage
"展開" (てんかい) primarily means "to unfold," "to develop," or "to expand." It is often used in contexts such as stories, business strategies, or physical unfolding of objects. The word conveys the idea of something spreading out or progressing.
Common Contexts
- In literature or media, "展開" refers to the development or progression of a plot or story.
- In business, it describes the expansion or rollout of operations, products, or markets.
- Physically, it can mean unfolding or spreading out an object like a map or umbrella.
Collocations and Patterns
- 物語の展開 (ものがたりのてんかい): story development
- 事業展開 (じぎょうてんかい): business expansion
- 展開する (てんかいする): to unfold or develop
- 展開を見せる (てんかいをみせる): to show development or progress
Register and Nuance
"展開" is a formal noun often used in written and spoken Japanese in business, academic, and media contexts. It is not casual and usually appears in more serious or professional settings.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "展開" with simple "開く" (to open) because both can mean "to open/unfold." However, "展開" implies a process of development or expansion beyond just opening. Use "展開" when emphasizing progression or spreading out, not just physical opening.