noun
civilization and enlightenment; Westernization movement in Meiji Japan
Refers to the Meiji-era push to adopt Western technology, institutions, and ideas. Often used in historical contexts.
明治時代、文明開化の波が日本を大きく変えた。
During the Meiji era, the wave of civilization and enlightenment transformed Japan greatly.
文明開化の象徴として、銀座にレンガ造りの街並みが作られた。
As a symbol of civilization and enlightenment, brick buildings were constructed in Ginza.