Translation and Meaning of: 司る - tsukasadoru

The Japanese word 司る[つかさどる] carries a deep and specific meaning, often associated with responsibility and control. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and usage in everyday Japanese, as well as tips for memorization based on reliable sources. If you are learning Japanese or are simply curious about this expression, this guide will help you understand how it is perceived in the Japanese language and culture.

Meaning and usage of 司る

司る is a verb that means "to manage," "to govern," or "to be in charge of something." It is often used in formal and professional contexts, such as in companies or institutions, to describe someone who takes on a leadership role. For example, one can say that a director 司る a team or that a priest 司る a religious ceremony.

Unlike more generic words like 管理する (gerenciar), 司る carries a nuance of specific authority and responsibility. It is not a term used casually, but rather in situations that demand respect and formality. Its use is more common in written texts or official speeches than in everyday conversations.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 司 (tsukasa) has Chinese origins and originally represented the idea of "official" or "istrative authority". It is composed of the radical 口 (kuchi), which symbolizes communication, combined with an element that represents action. This combination reinforces the meaning of "exerting control through orders or guidelines".

The verb つかさどる emerged as an extension of this kanji, incorporating the meaning of taking on a commanding role. Sources such as the dictionary 漢字源 confirm that this reading was already used during the Heian period (794-1185), showing that the term has deep historical roots in the Japanese language.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to 司る is to associate it with situations where someone has a clear leadership role. Think of figures like bosses, priests, or managers - all examples of people who 司る something. This mental connection helps to anchor the appropriate context for the term.

Avoid using 司る in informal situations or for everyday tasks. It does not apply, for example, to managing your time or organizing a party among friends. Reserving this word for contexts of formal authority is crucial to sound natural in Japanese. When in doubt, opt for simpler synonyms like 管理する or 担当する.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 司る

• 司る - Form dictionary
• 司ります - Affirmative present form
• 司りません - Negative present form
• 司りました - Affirmative past form
• 司ってください - Imperative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 主宰する (shuzai suru) - Preside, control; actively lead something.
• 指揮する (shiki suru) - Directing, leading, especially in musical or organizational contexts.
• 統率する (tōsotsu suru) - Being the leader, unifying and coordinating the efforts of a group or organization.
• 指導する (shidō suru) - Guide, especially in teaching or training contexts.
• 指揮を執る (shiki o toru) - Take command; lead an orchestra or a determined group.
• 指導をする (shidō o suru) - To provide guidance or instruction, usually in educational contexts.
• 主導する (shudō suru) - Take the lead in a specific activity or project.
• 主管する (shukan suru) - Be responsible for a specific area of management or supervision.
• 主官する (shukan suru) - Management or presidency of an agency or institution.
• 主筆する (shuhitsu suru) - Be the editor-in-chief, leading the editorial part of a project.
• 主催する (shusai suru) - Organize or sponsor an event or activity.
• 主席する (shuseki suru) - Act as president of a meeting or official gathering.
• 主任する (shunin suru) - Be the person in charge or manager of a team or department.
• 主要する (shuyō suru) - Focusing on the main or most important issues of a subject.
• 主導権を握る (shudōken o nigiru) - Take control or lead a situation.
• 主導権を持つ (shudōken o motsu) - To have leadership or control in a specific context.
• 主導権を有する (shudōken o yū suru) - To have the ability or right to lead.
• 主導権を掌握する (shudōken o shōaku suru) - To fully master or ensure leadership.
• 主導権を獲得する (shudōken o kakutoku suru) - Acquire leadership in a situation or context.
• 主導権を確保する (shudōken o kakuho suru) - Ensure control or leadership in a situation.