Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Prefecture Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿข
Add to dictionary

prefecture

[หˆprษ›fษชkสงษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

government division

A prefecture is a district under the authority of a prefect or a similar official. Prefectures are often used as administrative divisions in various countries, particularly in Japan, where they serve as the highest level of local government. This system allows for greater local governance and administration.

Synonyms

administrative division, district, region.

Examples of usage

  • He lives in a prefecture located in the central region of Japan.
  • The prefecture was responsible for managing the public health crisis.
  • Each prefecture has its own governor and local legislature.
  • In France, the prefecture is an administrative region overseen by a state representative.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Japan, prefectures are key administrative divisions, each with a governor, playing a significant role in local governance.
  • France has a system of departments that function similarly to prefectures, each overseen by an appointed prefect, illustrating a blend of centralized and local power.

Geography

  • There are 47 prefectures in Japan, each unique in culture and geography, from bustling Tokyo to rural Hokkaido.
  • Some countries, like Italy, utilize the concept of provinces, which serve similar administrative purposes as prefectures.

Governance

  • Prefectures often have their own laws and regulations that cater to the needs of their residents, facilitating local governance.
  • The introduction of prefectures helped streamline administration by placing authority closer to the people.

Education

  • In educational contexts, perfectures often determine local school policies and standards, impacting students' learning environments.
  • Students in different prefectures in Japan may study different subjects and cultural events, showcasing regional diversity in education.

Origin of 'prefecture'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'praefectura', meaning a position of authority or a district under a leader.
  • In ancient Rome, 'prefect' referred to officials in charge of specific areas or tasks, showing the word's historical roots in governance.

The word 'prefecture' originates from the Latin term 'praefectura', which referred to the office or jurisdiction of a prefect, derived from 'praefectus', meaning 'placed in charge'. This Latin root was adapted into Old French as 'prefecture', before entering the English language around the late 14th century. Initially, it described a similar governing structure in various European states. As time progressed, the term became associated with administrative divisions in countries like Japan and France. In Japan, the modern prefectural system was established during the Meiji era to facilitate governance at a local level and to modernize the country's administrative practices. Today, prefectures play a crucial role in local government, promoting regional development and managing public services.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,564, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.