Translation and Meaning of: 通 - tsuu

The Japanese word 通[つう] is a versatile term full of nuances, present in both everyday language and more specific expressions. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding its meaning, origin, and usage can be quite helpful. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic translation to the cultural contexts in which this word appears, as well as tips for memorizing it efficiently.

Many students get confused with the multiple meanings of 通, ranging from "to through" to "to be an expert in something." Here, we will unveil these layers, showing how the Japanese use it in their daily lives and in which situations it stands out. If you are looking for a reliable dictionary to deepen your knowledge, Suki Nihongo offers detailed explanations about like this.

Meaning and translation of 通[つう]

In its most basic form, 通[つう] can be translated as "to " or "to cross," but its meaning goes far beyond that. Depending on the context, it also carries the idea of "deeply understanding" or "being well-informed about a subject." For example, when someone is called a 通な人[つうなひと], it means that this person is an expert on a certain topic.

Another common use is in compound words, such as 通行[つうこう] (age) or 通勤[つうきん] (commuting). The flexibility of this word makes it essential for anyone wanting to master Japanese, as it appears in various everyday situations and even in more technical expressions.

Origin and writing of the kanji 通

The kanji 通 is composed of the radical 辶 (which indicates movement) combined with 甬 (which suggests the idea of age). This combination reinforces its original meaning related to crossing or connecting places. Etymological studies indicate that its use dates back to ancient Chinese, being adapted to Japanese with readings such as つう (on'yomi) and とおる (kun'yomi).

It is worth noting that the reading つう is often used in more abstract or specialized , while とおる appears in more concrete situations, such as 道を通る[みちをとおる] (to through a path). Understanding this difference helps to avoid common mistakes when forming sentences or interpreting texts in Japanese.

Cultural usage and common expressions

In Japan, being 通[つう] in a particular subject is seen as an irable quality, especially in areas like gastronomy, art, or pop culture. For example, knowing all the details about a type of regional cuisine can lead someone to be called 通. This aspect reflects the value that Japanese society places on deep knowledge and dedication.

Additionally, the word appears in useful everyday expressions, such as 電話が通じない[でんわがつうじない] (the phone isn't connecting) or 意味が通じる[いみがつうじる] (to make sense). Understanding how these uses relate to the idea of "flow" or "understanding" makes it easier to memorize and apply the term in real conversations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• つう (tsuu) - age, communication
• とおる (tooru) - to , to cross
• かよう (kayou) - go and return, to attend (e.g., school)
• かようする (kayou suru) - attend, go and return
• すべる (suberu) - slide, slip
• すべっていく (subette iku) - sliding away
• よこたわる (yokotawaru) - to lie down, to be lying down
• とおりすぎる (toorisugiru) - to , to sur
• とおりぬける (toorinukeru) - through, completely cross