Translation and Meaning of: 新しい - atarashii

If you are learning Japanese, you have certainly come across the word 新しい (あたらしい), which means "new." But do you know how it originated, how it is used in daily life, or even how to memorize it more easily? In this article, we will thoroughly explore this essential word, from its etymology to practical tips for fixing it in your mind. Here at Suki Nihongo, the largest online Japanese dictionary, you will also discover how to correctly write the kanji and learn ready-made phrases to include in your Anki or other spaced repetition system.

In addition to its basic meaning, there is much to uncover about あたらしい. For example, did you know that this word has an interesting connection to the concept of "freshness" and "renewal"? And that its kanji hides a visual story that can help with memorization? Let's go!

Etymology and Origin of 新しい

The word 新しい has ancient roots in Japanese, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). Originally, it was written as "あたらし" (atarashi) and only later received the kanji 新. Interestingly, some linguists believe the term is related to the concept of "value" (価値), since new things tend to be more valuable. Another theory suggests a connection with "ata" (貴), which means "precious" – after all, the new always seems more special, doesn't it?

The kanji 新 is a fascinating pictographic combination. It unites the radical for "tree" (木) with "cut" (斤), literally symbolizing "cutting fresh wood." This mental image can be useful for memorizing the character: think of lumberjacks working with freshly cut logs, still smelling of resin. This concrete association helps to solidify both the writing and the meaning.

Lies in Japanese Everyday Life

In Japan, あたらしい goes far beyond simply describing newly acquired objects. It carries a nuance of freshness and possibility. When a Japanese person says "新しい携帯" (new cellphone), there is a sparkle in their eyes – it's almost as if they are talking about a new beginning. This word constantly appears in ments, especially during the launch of technological products, where novelty is a supreme value.

An interesting usage is in the expression "新しい風" (atarashii kaze), which literally means "new wind," but refers to a sense of renewal, whether in politics, business, or even relationships. It is also common to hear "新しいことを始める" (starting something new) during the Japanese New Year, showing how the culture values new beginnings. Try using this phrase the next time you want to impress a Japanese friend with your plans!

Tips for Memorization and Curiosities

To the kanji 新, how about creating a visual story? Imagine that the left side (木) is a tree, and the right side (斤) is an axe chopping it – you are literally "doing something new" by transforming the wood. As for the pronunciation, notice how "あたらしい" sounds like "a ta ra shi i" – almost as if you're presenting something enthusiastically: "Ah, see? Ha! Shi! It's new!"

A cultural curiosity: in Japan, saying that something is "新しい" can have positive or negative connotations. While new products are celebrated, in human relations it may suggest a lack of experience. Therefore, be cautious when calling your boss "新しい社長" (new president) – it's better to use "新任の" (newly appointed) to sound more polite. So, are you ready to use 新しい like a native?

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 新しい (Atarashii) - New; recent
• 新規の (Shinki no) - new; unprecedented; used to describe something that has not been used before, such as a product or service.
• 新たな (Aratana) - new; renewed; used in more formal contexts
• 新たなる (Aratanaru) - uma nova forma
• 新しき (Atarashiki) - new; an ancient or literary form of "new"
• 新しめ (Atarashime) - relatively new; a bit new
• 新た (Arata) - new; used in more formal contexts
• 新しいもの (Atarashii mono) - new thing; new item or object
• 新しい方 (Atarashii kata) - a new person; a way to refer to someone new
• 新しいの (Atarashii no) - the new; used informally to refer to something new
• 新しいこと (Atarashii koto) - new thing; a new situation or fact
• 新しい形 (Atarashii katachi) - new form; referring to a new format or structure
• 新しいタイプ (Atarashii taipu) - new type; a new style or category
• 新しいスタイル (Atarashii sutairu) - new style; used in contexts of fashion or design
• 新しいデザイン (Atarashii dezain) - new design; referring to a new project or aesthetic
• 新しいアイデア (Atarashii aidea) - new idea; a new concept
• 新しい発想 (Atarashii hassou) - new thought; a new way of thinking
• 新しい試み (Atarashii kokoromi) - new effort; a new attempt or experiment
• 新しい展開 (Atarashii tenkai) - new development; a new evolution in a situation
• 新しい挑戦 (Atarashii chousen) - new challenge; a new test or adventure
• 新しいスタート (Atarashii sutaato) - new beginning; a new start
• 新しい人生 (Atarashii jinsei) - new life; a new path in life
• 新しい世界 (Atarashii sekai) - new world; a new space for experiences
• 新しい時代 (Atarashii jidai) - new era; a new historical or cultural phase
• 新しい風 (Atarashii kaze) - new wind; a new perspective or influence
• 新しい息吹 (Atarashii ibuki) - new breath; a new strength or vitality
• 新しい血液 (Atarashii ketsueki) - new blood; symbolizing new energies or influences
• 新しいエネルギー (Atarashii enerugi) - new energy; a new strength or vigor
• 新しい可能性 (Atarashii kanousei) - new possibilities; new opportunities or potentials
• 新しい未来 (Atarashii mirai) - new future; new perspectives for tomorrow