Translation and Meaning of: 傾く - katabuku

Have you ever wondered what the Japanese word 傾く[かたぶく] means? Whether you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding like this can enrich your vocabulary and even your perception of Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and helpful explanations for those who genuinely want to learn Japanese.

Meaning and Translation of 傾く[かたぶく]

The word 傾く[かたぶく] can be translated as "to incline," "to lean," or "to topple." It describes an object or person that is unbalanced, either physically or metaphorically. For example, a tower that is about to fall can be described with this verb, just like someone who is leaning to one side while seated.

In addition to its literal meaning, 傾く can also express a tendency or bias in abstract situations. If someone says that their opinion is "inclined" towards a certain side, they are using the word figuratively. This duality between the concrete and the abstract makes the term quite versatile in everyday Japanese.

Origin and Use of the Kanji 傾

The kanji 傾 is composed of two main elements: the radical 人 (person) and the component 頃, which carries the idea of inclination or bias. This combination reinforces the notion of something or someone that is misaligned. The etymology suggests a clear connection between physical movement and the inclination of opinions, which explains its broad usage.

In Japan, this verb frequently appears in everyday and formal contexts. It can be used to describe everything from household items to natural phenomena, such as trees bent by the wind. Its presence in instruction manuals, news, and even literature shows that it is a functional and relevant word.

Tips for Memorizing 傾く[かたぶく]

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate it with concrete images. Think of a vase that is about to fall off a table or a person leaning down to pick something up from the floor. Mentally creating these situations helps to link the term to its real meaning.

Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "あの木が傾いている" (That tree is leaning). Repeating the verb in different contexts consolidates your learning. If you use apps like Anki, including visual examples or audio can make the process even more efficient.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 傾く

• 傾く - dictionary form
• 傾いた - past
• 傾かない - negative
• 傾こう - potential
• 傾いている - progressive

Synonyms and similar words

• 傾斜する (keisha suru) - to lean, to have a tendency
• 傾く (katabuku) - to lean, to tilt, to be in a state of inclination
• 傾ける (katamukeru) - to tilt something, to make something lean
• 傾向する (keikou suru) - to have a tendency, to lean toward a certain direction