Translation and Meaning of: 掛け - kake

The Japanese word 掛け[かけ] is a versatile term that appears in various contexts of the language, from everyday expressions to more formal compositions. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the meaning and use of this word, this article will explore its origin, translation, and practical applications. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and precise explanations to help you master Japanese vocabulary efficiently.

Meaning and translation of 掛け[かけ]

The term 掛け[かけ] can be translated in various ways, depending on the context in which it is used. In essence, it carries the idea of "hanging," "placing over," or "applying." For example, in compound words like 掛け布団[かけぶとん] (comforter), it indicates something that is placed over another thing.

Moreover, 掛け can also appear in expressions that suggest continuous or repeated action, such as in 電話を掛ける [でんわをかける] (to make a phone call). This flexibility makes the word common in the daily lives of Japanese speakers, especially in situations involving practical interactions.

Origin and etymology of 掛け[かけ]

The origin of 掛け is linked to the verb 掛ける [かける], which has ancient roots in the Japanese language. The kanji 掛 is composed of the radical 手 (hand), suggesting a manual action, combined with other elements that reinforce the notion of suspension or application. This construction well reflects the practical use of the word in situations that involve placing something onto another object or surface.

It's worth noting that, although the kanji 掛 is the most common to represent this word, in some cases it can appear only in hiragana (かけ), especially in colloquial expressions or when the writing aims to be more accessible. This variation does not change the meaning, but it can influence the perception of formality in the text.

Cultural use and frequency of 掛け[かけ]

In Japan, 掛け is a word that is quite present in everyday life, appearing in phrases and expressions that range from household chores to social interactions. Its frequent use in like 眼鏡を掛ける[めがねをかける] (to put on glasses) shows how it is deeply rooted in daily actions.

Culturally, the word also appears in more traditional contexts, such as in 掛け軸[かけじく] (hanging scroll), a common item in Japanese homes and temples. This diversity of applications makes 掛け a useful term for both beginner students and those already familiar with the language.

Tips for memorizing 掛け[かけ]

An effective way to reinforce the meaning of 掛け is to associate it with concrete actions, such as hanging a coat or covering something. Creating flashcards with practical examples, such as カーテンを掛ける[かーてんをかける] (hang curtains), can help reinforce learning.

Another strategy is to pay attention to how the word appears in animes, dramas, or even in instruction manuals, where verbs like 掛ける are often used. This natural exposure to the language facilitates the internalization of vocabulary and its correct usage in different situations.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 掛かり ( kakari ) - Charge, cost associated with something.
• 付け ( tsuke ) - Addition, attachment or something that is placed together.
• 懸け ( kake ) - Bet, risk, or something that is hanging.
• 係り ( kakari ) - Responsibility or role of someone in a task.
• 連れ ( tsure ) - Accompanist, a person who accompanies another.
• 依頼 ( irai ) - Request, asking someone to do something.
• 負担 ( futan ) - Financial burden or responsibility.
• 仕事 ( shigoto ) - Work, occupation, or professional activity.
• 着手 ( shakushu ) - Beginning of a work or project.
• 開始 ( kaishi ) - Start, beginning of something.
• 始動 ( shidou ) - Startup, initialization of a process or machine.
• 負担 ( futan ) - Financial charge or responsibility (repeated).
• 負荷 ( fuka ) - Load, pressure, or effort applied to something.
• 重荷 ( omon ) - Heavy load, bales or difficult responsibilities to bear.
• 責任 ( sekinin ) - Responsibility, moral or legal obligation.
• 負債 ( fusai ) - Debt, amount of money owed to someone.
• 債務 ( saimu ) - Financial obligations, specifically related to debts.
• 負担 ( futan ) - Financial charge or responsibility (repeated).
• 負荷 ( fuka ) - Load or pressure, often in a physical or emotional context (repeated).
• 重荷 ( omon ) - Heavy load, responsibilities or burdens (repeated).
• 責任 ( sekinin ) - Responsibility (repeated).
• 負債 ( fusai ) - Doubt (repeated).
• 債務 ( saimu ) - Financial obligations (repeated).