Translation and Meaning of: 水泳 - suiei

The Japanese word 水泳[すいえい] is a common term in everyday vocabulary, especially for those who practice or have an interest in water sports. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and usage, along with cultural curiosities that make this expression even more interesting. If you are studying Japanese or simply want to understand how the Japanese refer to swimming, this guide will help you.

In addition to uncovering the composition of the kanjis that form 水泳, let's analyze how this word is perceived in Japan, from its use in everyday conversations to its presence in animes and other media. If you are looking for a reliable Japanese dictionary, Suki Nihongo is a great reference to deepen your knowledge.

Meaning and composition of 水泳

The word 水泳 is composed of two kanjis: 水 (sui), which means "water," and 泳 (ei), which refers to "swimming." Together, they form the term that describes the activity of swimming. This combination is quite logical and makes it easier to , as the meanings of the kanjis complement each other perfectly.

Unlike some Japanese words that have more abstract meanings, 水泳 is direct and objective. It is used in both formal and informal contexts, from physical education classes to sports competitions. If you have ever watched an anime or dorama with pool scenes, you have probably heard this word being used.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, swimming is a very popular activity, especially during the summer. Many schools include 水泳 in the mandatory curriculum, and it is common to see children learning to swim from a young age. Additionally, the country has a strong tradition in swimming competitions, which makes the word frequently appear in sports news.

Culturally, swimming is also associated with festivals and traditional events. In some regions, endurance competitions in the water are part of local celebrations. This connection between sport and culture makes 水泳 a word with a meaning that goes beyond the simple act of swimming.

Tips for memorizing and using 水泳

An effective way to memorize 水泳 is to associate the kanjis that compose it with concrete images. Visualizing water (水) and the act of swimming (泳) can help fix the term in memory. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "私は水泳が好きです" (Watashi wa suiei ga suki desu), which means "I like to swim."

For those studying Japanese, it's worth noting that 水泳 is a neutral word that can be used in various contexts without sounding too formal or informal. It also appears in compound , such as 水泳大会 (suiei taikai), which means "swimming competition." Knowing these variations can enrich your vocabulary and improve your fluency.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 水中競技 (Suichuu kyogi) - Underwater competition
• 水中運動 (Suichuu undou) - Underwater physical activity
• 水上競技 (Suijou kyogi) - Water surface competition
• 水上運動 (Suijou undou) - Physical activity on the water's surface
• 水泳競技 (Suiei kyogi) - Competição de natação
• 水泳運動 (Suiei undou) - Swimming physical activity