Translation and Meaning of: 始める - hajimeru

The Japanese word 始める (はじめる, hajimeru) is an essential verb for anyone learning the language. Its main meaning is "to start" or "to begin," and it frequently appears in both everyday conversations and formal texts. In this article, we will explore the usage, origin, and some curiosities about this word, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese use 始める in daily life or what the best way to incorporate it into your vocabulary is, keep reading!

Meaning and usage of 始める

始める is a verb that conveys the idea of starting something, whether it's an action, a project, or even a habit. It is often used in everyday situations, such as "the class starts" (授業が始める) or "I will start studying" (勉強を始める). Unlike other similar verbs, like 開始する (kaishi suru), which is more formal, 始める has a more colloquial and versatile tone.

An interesting feature is that 始める can be combined with other verbs to indicate the start of an action. For example, 食べ始める (tabehajimeru) means "to start eating." This flexibility makes it an extremely useful word for those constructing sentences in Japanese.

Origin and structure of kanji

The kanji 始 is composed of two elements: the female radical 女 (onna) and the component 台 (dai), which suggests the idea of a base or foundation. Together, they convey the notion of "starting something." This combination reflects well the meaning of the word, as a new beginning is often related to a solid foundation.

It's worth noting that 始める is the kun'yomi (Japanese) reading of the kanji, while the on'yomi (Chinese) reading is し (shi), as in 開始 (kaishi). Knowing these differences can aid in memorization, especially for those studying kanji in different contexts.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to fixate on 始める is to associate it with concrete situations. For example, think of activities you start daily, like working, reading, or exercising. Creating sentences like "今日から日本語を始める" (I will start studying Japanese today) helps to internalize the verb naturally.

Another tip is to pay attention to how the word appears in animes, dramas, or Japanese songs. Often, characters use 始める in decisive moments, which reinforces its meaning. Additionally, practicing with flashcards or apps like Anki can be helpful for regularly reviewing vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 開始する (kaishi suru) - Start, begin a process or event.
• 起動する (kidou suru) - Activate, start a device or program.
• スタートする (sutāto suru) - Start, often used in contexts of competition or events.
• 設立する (setsuritsu suru) - Establishing, founding an institution or company.
• 立ち上げる (tachiageru) - To raise, to initiate something new, such as a project or venture.