Translation and Meaning of: 剃る - suru

Have you ever wondered what the Japanese word 剃る[する] means? Whether to understand its everyday use, its origin, or how to apply it in sentences, this article will explore everything about this verb. In addition to the basic meaning, we will dive into cultural curiosities, memorization tips, and practical examples for those studying Japanese. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for your learning.

剃る[する] is a verb that may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances in the Japanese language. If you've ever had doubts about how to use it correctly or in which contexts it appears, keep reading to uncover details that go beyond conventional dictionaries.

Meaning and usage of 剃る[する]

The verb 剃る[する] means "to shave" or "to trim," often associated with the act of shaving or cutting hair very close. It is used in everyday situations, such as when someone shaves (髭を剃る) or when a barber makes a precise cut. Unlike other verbs like 切る (to cut), 剃る implies a movement closer to the surface, almost like "sanding" something.

In Japan, the act of shaving has connotations of hygiene and professionalism, especially in corporate environments. Therefore, 剃る is not just a functional verb, but also reflects a cultural aspect. In more traditional contexts, such as ceremonies or martial arts, the practice of shaving the head (頭を剃る) can symbolize renewal or discipline.

Origin and writing of the kanji 剃

The kanji 剃 is composed of the radical 刂 (right side, related to "knife" or "to cut") and the component 弟 (which originally refers to "younger" or "gentle"). This combination suggests the idea of "cutting gently" or "shaving with precision." The etymology reinforces the meaning of the verb, as it does not indicate a harsh cut, but rather something more meticulous.

It is worth mentioning that 剃る is a verb from group 1 (godan), which means that its conjugation follows specific patterns. For example, in the past form, it becomes 剃った. This detail is important for Japanese language learners, as it helps to avoid common mistakes when forming sentences. The pronunciation "soru" can also be a challenge for beginners, as the "so" tends to be elongated.

Tips for memorizing and using 剃る[する]

An effective way to memorize 剃る is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of a razor or an electric shaver — objects that "shave" close to the skin. Creating flashcards with related images can help reinforce the meaning. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences like 毎朝ひげを剃る (I shave my beard every morning).

Interestingly, 剃る is not an extremely common verb in everyday life, but it appears regularly in specific contexts, such as beauty salons or conversations about personal care. If you watch animes or Japanese dramas, you may encounter it in scenes that involve characters preparing for important events or changes in appearance.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 剃る

• 剃る - Dictionary form
• 剃ります - Polite polite form
• 剃りたい - Desirable shape
• 剃れる - ive form
• 剃ろう - Imperative form command mode

Synonyms and similar words

• 削る (kezuru) - Sharpen; scrape
• 刈る (karu) - Trim; cut (usually used for grass or planting)
• そる (soru) - Abarbatar; depilate (referring to removing hair)
• はげる (hageru) - Alopecia; to go bald (related to hair loss)