Translation and Meaning of: 運 - un

The Japanese word 運[うん] is a fascinating term that carries deep meanings in the culture and daily life of Japan. If you have ever wondered what it means, how it is used, or even how to memorize it, this article will help you uncover all that. We will explore everything from the basic meaning to cultural curiosities, along with practical tips for those learning Japanese. And if you want to go further, Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, can be a great tool to complement your studies.

Meaning and usage of 運 [うん]

運[うん] is a word that means "luck" or "fate" in Japanese. It is often used to refer to luck in general, whether good or bad. For example, when someone is having a very lucky day, they might say they have "いい運" (ii un), while an unlucky day would be "悪い運" (warui un).

The interesting thing is that 運 is not limited to just random luck. In some contexts, it can also indicate fate or that which is beyond our control. This duality makes the word quite versatile and present in various everyday situations in Japan.

Origin and writing of the kanji 運

The kanji 運 is composed of the radical 辶, which is related to movement, and the part 軍, which refers to an army or group. Together, these elements suggest the idea of something that "moves together" or "is guided," which makes sense when we think of luck or destiny as forces that guide our lives.

According to the Kangorin dictionary, one of the most respected references in the study of kanji, 運 can also carry nuances of "transport" or "circulation," but this usage is less common in modern Japanese. Today, the word is more associated with the concept of luck and chance, especially in everyday expressions.

How 運 is perceived in Japanese culture

In Japan, the idea of 運 is deeply connected to superstitions and rituals. Many Japanese people believe that luck can be influenced by specific actions, such as visiting temples on New Year's or carrying lucky charms (omamori). This practical view of luck differs somewhat from the Western notion, where chance is often seen as something entirely random.

Another curious aspect is that 運 appears frequently in games and competitions. Phrases like "運も実力のうち" (un mo jitsuryoku no uchi), which means "luck is also a skill," show how the concept is integrated even in situations where personal merit is valued. This expression is so popular that it even appears in animes and dramas as a reminder that luck can make a difference.

Tips for memorizing and using 運[うん]

An effective way to the kanji 運 is to associate its radical 辶 (movement) with the idea that luck "comes and goes." The part 軍 can be ed as an "army" of opportunities that arise in life. This visual association helps to avoid confusion with other similar kanjis.

To practice using the word, try creating simple sentences like "今日は運がいい" (kyou wa un ga ii - today I’m lucky) or "運を試す" (un o tamesu - test your luck). Using 運 in real contexts, such as when playing a game or commenting on a random event, also helps to internalize its meaning naturally.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 運命 (Unmei) - Destiny, luck, fate
• 運転 (Unten) - Driving, steering, operating (a vehicle)
• 運賃 (Unchin) - Rate, transportation cost
• 運動 (Undou) - Exercise, movement (physical)
• 運営 (Unei) - istration, management (of an organization)
• 運送 (Unsou) - Transport, shipping (of goods)
• 幸運 (Kouun) - Luck, good luck (emphasis on blessing or favor)
• 運用 (Unyou) - Use, application (of resources or skills)
• 運河 (Ungawa) - Canal, navigable waterway
• 運命的 (Unmeiteki) - Destiny, fate (with connotation of inevitability)