計算

けいさん

calculation, reckoning

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"計算" (けいさん) primarily means "calculation" or "reckoning." It is used both for mathematical calculations and for estimating or figuring out costs, time, or other quantities.

Common Contexts

You will often see "計算" used in contexts involving math problems, budgeting, accounting, and any situation where numbers are being processed or estimated.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 計算する: to calculate or compute.
  • 計算が速い/遅い: quick/slow at calculations.
  • 費用を計算する: to calculate expenses.
  • 計算に入れる: to include in the calculation.

Register and Nuance

"計算" is a neutral, commonly used noun and verb in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate in everyday conversation, business, and academic settings.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "計算" with "計画" (けいかく, plan). Remember that "計算" relates to numbers and calculations, while "計画" refers to planning or making a plan.

Example Sentences

このもんだいのこたえはけいさんでもとめられます。

The answer to this problem can be found by calculation.

りょこうのひようをけいさんして、よさんをたてましょう。

Let's calculate the travel expenses and make a budget.

かれはけいさんがはやいので、かいけいのしごとにむいている。

He is quick at calculations, so he is suited for accounting work.