Translation and Meaning of: じっくり - jikkuri

The Japanese word じっくり (jikkuri) is a term that frequently appears in everyday conversations and formal texts, carrying interesting nuances about patience and attention to detail. If you've ever wondered what it means, how to use it, or what the origin of this word is, this article will clarify those questions in a straightforward and practical way. Here, we will explore everything from the basic meaning to cultural contexts in which じっくり stands out, as well as tips for memorizing it easily.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, じっくり is defined as an adverb that conveys the idea of doing something with calmness, dedication, or depth. Whether cooking, studying, or solving a problem, the Japanese use this word to emphasize the importance of not being in a hurry. But does it appear in anime or popular expressions? How can it be differentiated from similar ? These and other questions will be answered below.

Meaning and use of じっくり in daily life

The term じっくり is used to describe actions carried out meticulously, without haste. Imagine preparing a dish that requires hours of cooking over low heat or analyzing a document thoroughly before making an important decision. In both cases, じっくり would be the appropriate word to describe the process. It conveys a sense of care and respect for the time needed to complete a task.

In the Japanese workplace, for example, it is common to hear phrases like 「このプロジェクトはじっくり進めましょう」 (Let's proceed with this project calmly). Here, the word emphasizes the Japanese culture of valuing quality over speed. Interestingly, じっくり also appears in informal contexts, such as when describing how someone enjoys a meal or reads a book without distractions.

Origin and components of the word じっくり

The etymology of じっくり traces back to the verb じっく (jikku), an archaic form that meant "to squeeze" or "to compress." Over time, the suffix り (ri) was added, transforming it into an adverb that denotes continuous and concentrated action. This evolution reflects well the current meaning: something done with focus and without interruptions. It is worth noting that じっくり is written only in hiragana, which makes its reading easier even for beginners in the language.

Although it is not made up of kanji, some historical dictionaries associate じっくり with the character 熟 (juku), which means "to mature" or "to deepen." This connection is not official, but it helps to understand why the word is linked to slow and careful processes. A tip for memorizing it is to think of "jikkuri" as an onomatopoeia for something being done slowly, almost like the sound of a clock ticking every second.

Deeply in Japanese culture and media

In Japanese culture, じっくり is closely linked to concepts such as "monozukuri" (craftsmanship of excellence) and "kodawari" (attention to detail). Culinary programs, for example, often use the term to describe techniques that require time, such as the preparation of miso or the cooking of high-quality meats. This appreciation for the meticulous process is a defining trait of Japanese society, present even in animes like "Shokugeki no Soma," where elaborately crafted dishes are described as 「じっくり味わって」 (savor slowly).

Furthermore, じっくり appears in unexpected contexts, such as in study manuals ("じっくり覚える" – memorize deeply) or even in relationship advice ("じっくり話し合う" – talk without hurry). Its versatility shows how the Japanese language integrates cultural values into everyday vocabulary. For those studying the language, observing these uses in dramas, books, or even on product packaging is a great way to reinforce the term.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• じっくり (jikkuri) - Calmly and carefully, without hurry.
• 徹底的に (tetteiteki ni) - In a complete and thorough manner.
• 丁寧に (teinei ni) - In a careful and attentive manner.
• 熟考する (jukko suru) - Think deeply, reflect carefully.
• 慎重に (shinchou ni) - In a cautious and careful manner.
• じっくりと (jikkuri to) - Um sinônimo de じっくり (jikkuri), enfatizando a calma e profundidade, é "calmamente" ou "detidamente".
• しっかりと (shikkari to) - Firmly and solidly, indicating security in execution.
• じっくりと考える (jikkuri to kangaeru) - Reflect calmly.
• じっくりと見る (jikkuri to miru) - Observe carefully.
• じっくりと聞く (jikkuri to kiku) - Listen carefully.
• じっくりと読む (jikkuri to yomu) - Read carefully and attentively.
• じっくりと味わう (jikkuri to ajiwau) - Deeply appreciate, particularly regarding taste or experiences.
• じっくりと観察する (jikkuri to kansatsu suru) - Observe carefully and in detail.
• じっくりと話す (jikkuri to hanasu) - Speak calmly.
• じっくりと考え込む (jikkuri to kangaekomu) - Think intensely and deeply.
• じっくりと分析する (jikkuri to bunseki suru) - Make a thorough analysis.
• じっくりと研究する (jikkuri to kenkyuu suru) - Conduct a thorough research.