Translation and Meaning of: 塗る - nuru

The Japanese word 塗る[ぬる] is a common verb that appears in everyday situations and even in more specialized contexts. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding its meaning, usage, and particularities can be very useful. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic translation to cultural details and tips for memorizing this word effectively.

塗る is a versatile term, but does it have any interesting specifics in its writing or pronunciation? How do the Japanese use it in everyday life? And does it appear in animes, mangas, or other media? Let's answer these questions and more, always with precise information based on reliable sources. If you are looking for a comprehensive Japanese dictionary, Suki Nihongo can help with practical examples and clear explanations.

Meaning and usage of 塗る

塗る means "to apply," "to spread," or "to cover with a substance," and is often used to describe actions such as painting a wall, applying cream to the skin, or even covering food with sauce. It is a verb that carries the idea of coating something with a layer, whether it is thin or thick. Unlike other similar verbs, such as 描く (to draw), 塗る has a more practical focus and less artistic connotation.

A simple example of usage is in the sentence "ペンキを塗る" (penki o nuru), which means "to paint with paint." This type of construction appears in manuals, recipes, and even in informal conversations. It is worth noting that, although 塗る can be used metaphorically, its literal meaning is the most common in everyday Japanese.

Origin and writing of the kanji 塗

The kanji 塗 is composed of the radical 土 (earth) and 余 (excess, remainder), suggesting a relation to the idea of covering or spreading something over a surface. This interpretation makes sense when we consider its use for painting or applying substances. Sources like Kanjipedia and Jisho.org confirm this structure, showing that the character carries a clear visual and semantic logic.

Interestingly, 塗 also appears in words like 塗装 (tosou, industrial painting) and 塗料 (toryou, paint or coating material). These reinforce the connection of the kanji with manual and industrial activities. If you want to memorize it, one tip is to associate the radical 土 (earth) with the idea of a base that will be covered by something, like paint or mortar.

to paint in Japanese culture

In Japan, 塗る is not limited to household or industrial tasks. It appears in traditions such as urushi (漆), an ancient technique for varnishing objects with lacquer. This craft, recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, uses the verb 塗る to describe the process of applying layers of resin. Here, the word takes on an artistic and historical meaning.

Additionally, 塗る is common in animes and mangas that involve crafting, construction, or even cooking. Series like "Shokugeki no Souma" (食戟のソーマ) use the term to describe the act of covering dishes with sauces, while works like "Barakamon" (ばらかもん) apply it in scenes of traditional painting. If you consume Japanese media, you have probably encountered this word in some context.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 塗る

• 塗る - dictionary form
• 塗り - Imperative form
• 塗った - past form
• 塗れる - potential form
• 塗ろう - Progressive form

Synonyms and similar words

• 塗り込む (Nurikomu) - Apply paint deeply, usually in layers.
• 塗り付ける (Nuriuteru) - Apply paint or coating, usually on a flat surface.
• 塗り替える (Nurikairu) - Reapply or change the existing paint.
• 塗り潰す (Nurisubusu) - Fill or completely cover with paint.
• 塗りつぶす (Nuritsubusu) - Fill or cover an area, similar to 塗り潰す, but can be used in more general contexts.
• 塗装する (Tosou suru) - Perform painting work on any surface.
• 塗り直す (Nurinauosu) - Redo or touch up the paint.
• 塗り分ける (Nuriwakeru) - Differentiate and apply paint in distinct sections.