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根本
こんぽん
root cause
この問題の根本は何ですか？
What is the root cause of this problem?
formal
The fundamental or primary source/origin of something; the most basic part or cause.
事故の根本的な原因を調査する。
Investigate the root cause of the accident.
Often used in technical, analytical, or problem-solving contexts.
formal
The essential nature or core aspect of a matter; the fundamental principle.
彼の考え方は根本的に間違っている。
His way of thinking is fundamentally wrong.
Pro Tip
Common Mistake: Overusing 'root'
While 'root' is a direct translation, 'root cause' is more idiomatic in English for technical contexts. Avoid literal translations like 'root of the problem' unless referring to plants.
Gold Rule
When to Use 根本
Use 根本 when referring to the core, underlying principle or cause of something. It implies depth and fundamental importance, not just a surface-level issue.
Word Origin
From Middle Chinese 根本 (MC *kən|kənX *pwənX), equivalent to 根 (root) + 本 (origin). The compound form emphasizes the foundational nature of the concept.
Usage Notes
Used in both concrete (e.g., science, engineering) and abstract (e.g., philosophy, ethics) contexts. Often paired with 的 (teki) to form adjectival phrases like 根本的な (fundamental).
Word Breakdown
根
root (of a plant or metaphorically the foundation)
root本
origin, source, or book (here meaning 'fundamental')
root和英辞典