Translation and Meaning of: 丼 - donburi

If you've ever eaten at a Japanese restaurant or watched an anime, you have probably heard the word 丼[どんぶり]. But what does it actually mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and usage of this word in everyday Japan. Additionally, you will discover how it is perceived in Japanese culture and some curiosities that may aid in memorization. If you are learning Japanese or just have an interest in the language, this guide from Suki Nihongo will help you better understand this term that is so present in Japanese cuisine and daily life.

Meaning and origin of 丼[どんぶり]

The word 丼[どんぶり] refers to a type of large and deep bowl, usually made of ceramics or wood, used to serve foods such as rice with toppings. The term is also used to describe dishes served in this container, like the famous 牛丼[ぎゅうどん] (beef over rice). The origin of the word is linked to the sound the bowl made when placed on the table – "don" – combined with "buri," a variation of "furi," which refers to the act of placing something in a container.

Interestingly, the kanji 丼 is a simplified representation of a well (井) with something inside (丶), symbolizing the idea of a container that holds food. This character is not one of the more complex ones, but it carries with it an interesting history that reflects the practicality of Japanese cuisine. If you want to memorize it, think of a bowl full of food – this image can help reinforce both the meaning and the kanji.

Everyday and cultural use

In Japan, 丼[どんぶり] is an extremely common term, especially in restaurants and eateries that serve quick meals. Dishes like 親子丼[おやこどん] (chicken and egg over rice) and 天丼[てんどん] (tempura over rice) are popular and affordable, making up the menu of many Japanese people in their daily lives. The practicality of this type of meal means that the word is often used in menus and informal conversations.

Culturally, 丼[どんぶり] represents a simple yet satisfying meal, reflecting a bit of the value that Japanese people place on efficiency without sacrificing flavor. It's no wonder that many fast-food chains in Japan offer variations of 丼 that are ready in just a few minutes. If you visit the country, you will notice that this type of dish is everywhere, from convenience stores to traditional restaurants.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to the meaning of 丼[どんぶり] is to associate it with specific dishes you already know, such as 牛丼[ぎゅうどん]. When thinking of a dish that comes in a large bowl, it becomes easier to link the word to its real meaning. Another tip is to pay attention to the kanji, which visually suggests something inside a container – an image that can aid in memorization.

An interesting tidbit is that, although the word is often used for rice dishes, it can also refer to other foods served in similar bowls. However, in the culinary context, rice is almost always present. If you are learning Japanese, it's worth practicing this word in everyday sentences, like "今日は丼を食べたい"[きょうはどんぶりをたべたい] (Today I want to eat a donburi).

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• どんぶり (donburi) - A large bowl, usually used to serve rice with toppings.
• ボウル (bōru) - Bowl, a wide and round container used to serve food or mix ingredients.
• 大皿 (ōzara) - Large plate, used to serve larger portions or various types of dishes at the same time.
• 盛り皿 (morisara) - Serving dish, used for portions of food that are presented in a more elaborate way.