Translation and Meaning of: 押し入れ - oshiire

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about Japanese culture, you may have come across the word 押し入れ (おしいれ). But what does it mean exactly? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and everyday use of this word, in addition to interesting facts that can aid in memorization. Whether to understand dialogue in an anime or to describe a traditional piece of furniture, knowing 押し入れ is useful for any student of the Japanese language.

The meaning of 押し入れ

押し入れ (おしいれ) is a Japanese word that refers to a type of built-in cupboard, common in traditional Japanese houses. It is typically used to store futons, blankets, and other bulky items. Unlike Western closets, the 押し入れ is built into the structure of the house, making use of spaces such as those above doors or under stairs.

This piece of furniture is especially useful in smaller homes, where space is limited. Because it is built-in, it does not take up usable area in the room, becoming a practical storage solution. If you have ever watched a Japanese anime or dorama, you have probably seen characters taking futons out of an 押し入れ in the morning or putting them away at night.

The origin and the writing of 押し入れ

The word 押し入れ is composed of two kanjis: 押 (oshi), which means "to push," and 入 (ire), which means "to enter" or "to insert." Together, they describe a space where objects are "pushed inside." This construction well reflects the functionality of the furniture, as items like futons are often folded and stored compactly.

The use of 押し入れ dates back to the Edo period, when Japanese houses began to adopt more space-efficient designs. Over time, it became an essential element in homes, especially in washitsu (traditional Japanese style) rooms. To this day, even in modern apartments, many Japanese people keep this type of closet for its practicality.

How is the 押し入れ used in Japan today?

Although Japan has adopted many Western-style furnishings, the 押し入れ is still widely used. It is especially common in traditional rooms, where tatami and sliding doors (fusuma) complement the style. Many Japanese families use this space not only for futons but also to store bedding, suitcases, and even toys.

An interesting curiosity is that, in some cases, the 押し入れ can be adapted for other purposes. For example, in small apartments, it can serve as a mini-wardrobe or even as a study space, with a sliding table. This versatility shows how Japanese design can transform traditional solutions into something functional for modern life.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 押し込み (oshikomi) - Stacking or storage, often referring to placing objects in a limited space.
• 畳部屋 (tatami heya) - Traditional Japanese room with tatami flooring.
• 収納部屋 (shuunou heya) - Room dedicated to storage or storage of items.
• 物置き (mono oki) - Place to store objects, often associated with a warehouse or outdoor storage area.
• 倉庫 (souko) - Warehouse or depot, a large space used to store goods.
• 貯蔵室 (chouzou shitsu) - Storage room, often used for specific items such as food or valuable documents.