Translation and Meaning of: 高める - takameru

The Japanese word 高める [たかめる] is a verb that carries deep meanings and practical applications in everyday life. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding this term can enrich your vocabulary and cultural understanding. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, common uses, and even tips for memorizing it effectively.

In addition to being a useful verb in everyday conversations, 高める also appears in formal contexts and even in compound expressions. Whether to describe the elevation of a physical object or the enhancement of a skill, this word has a significant presence in the Japanese language. Let's dive into its details so you can use it with confidence.

Meaning and usage of 高める

The verb 高める means "to elevate," "to increase," or "to improve." It can be used both in a literal sense, such as raising the height of something, and in a figurative sense, such as enhancing a skill or quality. For example, in a professional context, someone might say they want to 高める their skills to stand out at work.

An interesting characteristic is that 高める is a transitive verb, meaning it always acts on an object. This means you cannot simply say "I elevate" without specifying what is being elevated. This grammatical structure is important for forming correct sentences and avoiding confusion in communication.

Origin and composition of kanji

The word 高める is written with the kanji 高, which means "high" or "elevated," followed by the verbal suffix める. The kanji 高 by itself is quite significant in the Japanese language, appearing in words like 高い (expensive/high) and 高校 (high school). Its presence in 高める reinforces the idea of increase or enhancement.

It is worth noting that the kanji 高 has an interesting visual etymology. It dates back to ancient representations of elevated structures, such as towers or tall buildings. This historical connection helps to understand why it is used in contexts involving growth or elevation, whether physical or abstract.

Tips for memorizing and using 高める

An effective way to memorize 高める is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of moments when you wanted to improve something, whether it was a grade at school, a skill at work, or even your physical fitness. Creating these mental connections helps to anchor the vocabulary naturally and durably.

Another valuable tip is to practice with simple sentences before moving on to more complex structures. Start with examples like "技能を高める" (enhancing skills) or "品質を高める" (improving quality). This type of exercise consolidates your learning and prepares you for more elaborate uses in the future.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 高める

• 高める - base form
• 高めます - polite form
• 高めない - negative form
• 高めた - past form
• 高めて - imperative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 上げる (ageru) - Rise
• 強化する (kyōka suru) - strengthen
• 強める (tsuyomeru) - make stronger
• 高くする (takaku suru) - raise or increase (in height or value)
• 増す (masu) - increase
• 増やす (fuyasu) - to increase or enhance
• 大きくする (ōkiku suru) - make bigger
• 大きくなる (ōkiku naru) - become bigger
• 高くなる (takaku naru) - become taller
• 高まる (takamaru) - grow or increase (intensity)
• 高める (takameru) - increase(level, intensity)
• 高め上げる (takame ageru) - increase to a high level
• 高め増す (takame masu) - high-level growth
• 高め増やす (takame fuyasu) - increase to a high level
• 高め強化する (takame kyōka suru) - strengthen to a high level
• 高め強める (takame tsuyomeru) - strengthening by intensifying
• 高め上げ強化する (takame age kyōka suru) - strengthening by elevating
• 高め上げ強める (takame age tsuyomeru) - intensify by raising