理学
Meanings
physical science; natural science
Broad term for the natural sciences, especially physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences. Often contrasted with 文学 (humanities).
He is majoring in physics in the Faculty of Science.
What is the difference between science and engineering?
Obsolete term for physics; modern Japanese uses 物理学.
See also: 物理学
In the early Meiji period, 理学 sometimes referred to physics.
Obsolete term for philosophy; modern Japanese uses 哲学.
See also: 哲学
In Edo-period texts, 理学 is sometimes used to mean philosophy.
Specifically refers to the Song-Ming school of neo-Confucianism (宋明理学). A historical philosophical term.
See also: 宋明理学
Song-Ming neo-Confucianism includes Zhu Xi's teachings and Wang Yangming's teachings.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が理学を専攻するto major in natural science
He majored in science at university.
- 理学の学位を取るto earn a degree in science
She earned a degree in science.