典型的
tenkeiteki
The English word "typical" is translated into Japanese as 典型的 (tenkeiteki).
典型的 is an adjective used to describe something that is normal or to be expected.
Meaning: normal, to be expected (adj)
Which one should you use?
While 典型的 means "typical," you might use 代表的な to mean "representative." If you want to express that something is "ordinary" or "usual" in an informal way, you can use 普通.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you use the adjective to modify a noun, the form 典型的 is usually used with the particle な to become 典型的な.
How do you pronounce it?
tenkeiteki
Did you know?
- The word 典型 refers to a 'model' or 'standard'. In a Buddhist context, similar terminology was historically used to describe idealized forms of enlightenment.
- The kanji 的 literally means 'target' or 'bullseye'. When used in 典型的, it metaphorically points to the 'center' or 'essence' of a category.
- While 典型的 describes something that fits a pattern, using it to describe a person can sometimes sound like you are diagnosing them with a specific type.
Examples in context
- 彼らは典型的な若者だ。They are typical young people.This sentence is useful for showing how to use 典型的 to describe people.Tatoeba #3474640 by arnab, translation #306167 by CC
- 彼は典型的な仕事人間だね。He's a typical workaholic.This sentence shows how to use 典型的 to describe a workaholic.Tatoeba #101946 by bunbuku, translation #301747 by CM
- トムは典型的なイギリス人だ。Tom's a typical Englishman.This sentence demonstrates using 典型的 to describe a person's nationality/background.Tatoeba #2719254 by tommy_san, translation #3285575 by patgfisher
- 彼は典型的な日本人です。He is a typical Japanese person.
- これは代表的な日本料理です。This is a representative Japanese dish.
- 彼、典型的な男だよね。He's such a typical guy.
- チョコレートはバレンタインデーの代表的なプレゼントです。Chocolate is a typical Valentine's Day gift.
- 私は普通のサラリーマンです。I am an ordinary office worker.
- 彼はこの地域の代表的な人物です。He is a representative figure in this region.
- 7 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a common plot point in a movie.
- 陽葵 Himariこれは典型的な結末だね。Kore wa tenkeiteki na ketsumatsu da ne.This is a typical ending, isn't it?
- 健太 Kentaそうだね、予想通りだよ。Sou da ne, yosou doori da yo.Yeah, it's just as expected.
- 陽葵 Himari健太君は、いつも展開が読めるって言うよね。Kenta-kun wa, itsumo tenkai ga yomeru tte iu yo ne.Kenta, you always say you can predict the plot.
- 健太 Kentaうん、典型的なパターンだからね。Un, tenkeiteki na pataan dakara ne.Yeah, because it's a typical pattern.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
