Translation and Meaning of: 多忙 - tabou

If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in the language, you may have come across the word 多忙 (たぼう - tabō). It frequently appears in both formal and informal contexts, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and why understanding its cultural context can enrich your vocabulary.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 多忙, let's analyze its composition in kanji, examples of usage, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently. If you're looking for a reliable dictionary to deepen your studies, Suki Nihongo provides detailed explanations about like this, helping you master Japanese with precision.

Meaning and origin of 多忙 (たぼう)

The word 多忙 is composed of two kanjis: 多 (た - ta), which means "many" or "numerous," and 忙 (ぼう - bō), which carries the sense of "busy" or "occupied." Together, they form a term that describes a state of extreme busyness, often translated as "very busy" or "overloaded."

Unlike more casual words like 忙しい (いそがしい - isogashii), which also means "busy", 多忙 has a more formal tone and is often used in professional contexts. Its origin dates back to classical Japanese, where it already appeared in written texts to describe the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Everyday use and cultural context

In Japan, where the work culture is intense, 多忙 is not just a word—it's a reflection of a lifestyle. Employees in companies often use this term to justify long hours in the office or the difficulty of balancing personal and professional life. Phrases like 多忙な日々 (たぼうなひび - tabō na hibi), which means "very busy days", are common in everyday conversations.

Interestingly, although Japan is known for its strict work ethic, the excessive use of 多忙 can carry a tone of lamentation. Many Japanese people avoid complaining openly, so this word ends up being an indirect way to express fatigue without disrupting social harmony.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to fix 多忙 in memory is to associate its kanjis with mental images. Think of 多 as multiple tasks piling up and 忙 as someone running between them. This visualization helps to that the word describes a situation of excess activities.

To practice, try using it in simple sentences like 今週は多忙です (こんしゅうはたぼうです - konshū wa tabō desu), which means "This week I am very busy." Repeating the term in real contexts reinforces your learning and makes Japanese more natural in your repertoire.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 忙しい (Isogashii) - occupied
• 多忙な (Tabō na) - Very busy
• 多忙である (Tabō de aru) - Being very busy
• 多忙な状態である (Tabō na jōtai de aru) - To be in a state of great busyness
• 多忙な生活を送る (Tabō na seikatsu o okuru) - Lead a very busy life
• 多忙なスケジュールをこなす (Tabō na sukejūru o konasu) - Keeping a very busy schedule
• 多忙な仕事を抱える (Tabō na shigoto o kakaeru) - Take on a very busy job.
• 多忙な日々を送る (Tabō na hibi o okuru) - Spend very busy days
• 多忙な時期である (Tabō na jiki de aru) - Being in a period of great busyness
• 多忙な業務をこなす (Tabō na gyōmu o konasu) - Perform very busy tasks
• 多忙なスケジュールを組む (Tabō na sukejūru o kumu) - Organizing a very busy schedule
• 多忙な日々を過ごす (Tabō na hibi o sugosu) - Spending very busy days (lifestyle)
• 多忙な生活を送る人々 (Tabō na seikatsu o okuru hitobito) - People who lead very busy lives
• 多忙な状況にある (Tabō na jōkyō ni aru) - To be in a very busy situation.
• 多忙な時間を過ごす (Tabō na jikan o sugosu) - Spending very busy time