Translation and Meaning of: 踵 - kakato

The Japanese word 踵[かかと] may seem simple, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and usage in everyday Japanese, as well as curious facts that go beyond the literal translation. If you have ever wondered how this word is used in sentences or what its relation is to the local culture, keep reading to find out.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 踵 is defined as "heel," but its usage goes beyond anatomy. Here, you will understand how the Japanese use this term in various contexts, from informal conversations to more poetic expressions. We will also uncover the writing in kanji and tips for memorizing it without complications.

Meaning and use of 踵 [かかと] (kakato)

In Japanese, 踵[かかと] specifically refers to the back part of the foot, the heel. Unlike in Portuguese, where "calcanhar" can be used in metaphorical expressions, the Japanese term tends to be more literal in everyday contexts. For example, when talking about pain in that area, a Japanese person would say 踵が痛い (kakato ga itai).

Despite this, in literature and proverbs, 踵 appears with symbolic meanings. One example is the expression 踵を返す (kakato o kaesu), which means "to turn around" or "to return," showing how the word gains cultural layers. However, this type of usage is less common in everyday life.

Origin and writing of the kanji 踵

The kanji 踵 is composed of the radical 足 (ashi), which means "foot", combined with 重 (omoi), suggesting the idea of "heavy part of the foot". This etymology reflects well its anatomical function, as the heel s a large part of the body weight. The reading かかと (kakato) is considered kun'yomi, meaning the native Japanese pronunciation.

Interestingly, this kanji is not one of the more frequent ones in modern Japanese. According to linguistic databases, it appears less frequently than like 足 (ashi - foot) or 手 (te - hand). This does not diminish its importance, but it explains why some students take longer to encounter it in initial study materials.

Tips for memorizing and using 踵

An effective way to 踵[かかと] is to associate it with everyday actions. For example, think of "putting on a shoe" (靴を履く) where the 踵 fits into the heel. This concrete image helps to retain both the meaning and the pronunciation. Another strategy is to create flashcards with practical sentences like 踵に靴擦れができた (Kakato ni kutsubzure ga dekita - "I got a blister on my heel").

For those studying kanji, observing the radical 足 in 踵 can be a shortcut. Several related to feet and movements share this component, such as 跳 (jump) and 踏 (step). This visual connection facilitates recognition even in more complex texts, making learning more intuitive.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• かかと (kakato) - Heel
• ひとえ (hitoe) - Single-layer bed (can also refer to a type of simple clothing)
• あかびら (akabira) - Red worm, which can also refer to a type of red flower.
• あかびらがしら (akabiragashira) - Red worm head, referring specifically to the body part