Meaning and Usage
The word 再建 (さいけん) primarily refers to the act of rebuilding or reconstructing something that was destroyed or damaged, often used for buildings like temples, shrines, or organizations such as companies. It implies a restoration to a former state or a new establishment after destruction.
Common Contexts
You will often see 再建 used in contexts involving physical reconstruction after disasters (earthquakes, wars) or organizational recovery (companies, institutions). It carries a formal tone and is common in news reports, official announcements, and historical discussions.
Collocations and Patterns
- 再建する: to rebuild or reconstruct.
- 再建計画: reconstruction plan.
- 再建に時間がかかる: it takes time to rebuild.
- 戦後再建: post-war reconstruction.
Usage Tips
When using 再建, it often implies a significant effort and process, not just a simple repair. It is more formal than 修理 (しゅうり, repair) and usually refers to large-scale or important rebuilding. Avoid confusing it with 建て直す (たてなおす), which is more casual and can mean rebuilding or renovating on a smaller scale.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 再建 with 修復 (しゅうふく), which means restoration or repair, often preserving the original as much as possible. 再建 often involves rebuilding from the ground up, possibly changing the structure or organization.