Translation and Meaning of: 膨らむ - fukuramu

The word 「膨らむ」 (fukuramu) is a verb in Japanese that carries the meaning of "to swell" or "to expand." This word is often used to describe the act of something increasing in volume, whether physically like a balloon filling with air, or figuratively as when it is said that someone's dreams or hopes are growing. The origin of the term is linked to observations of nature, where changes are perceived both in plants that develop and in clouds that swell in the sky.

Etymologically, 「膨らむ」 is composed of the kanji 「膨」 which indicates "to swell" or "to expand." This kanji is formed by the radical 「月」, associated with flesh or body, and 「彭」 which suggests the idea of something bulging. The combination and choice of characters reflect the concept of something growing in size or volume. The merging of these ideas in the kanji helps understand the usage of the word in various contexts.

In the Japanese language, many words have variations for different contexts, and fukuramu is no exception. It can be used in practical contexts, such as describing foods that expand when cooked, as well as in abstract situations, like the anticipation of an event. Below are some variations and contexts of use:

• Expectations are growing.
• "The dreams are expanding."
• "The bread is rising."

Thus, 「膨らむ」 is a great example of how Japanese can be used to describe both physical and emotional phenomena. In all its variations and uses, the word encapsulates the idea of transformation and growth, becoming a vital part of the everyday and poetic vocabulary of the Japanese language.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 膨れる (fukur eru) - Inflate, expand (objects or body parts)
• 膨らます (fukur amasu) - To swell, to increase the volume of something
• 膨らむ (fukur amu) - Inflate, to expand (usually in relation to air inside an object)
• 膨らみ (fukur ami) - Swollen point or aspect, volume increaser
• 膨らみを見せる (fukur ami o miseru) - Show swelling or increase in volume
• 膨らんでいる (fukur ande iru) - It is swollen, it is expanded
• 膨らんだ (fukur anda) - Swollen, expanded (past form)
• 膨らんだ状態 (fukur anda jōtai) - Swollen state, expanded condition
• 膨らんでいます (fukur ande imasu) - It is currently swollen, it is in a state of swelling.