Translation and Meaning of: 作り - tsukuri

The Japanese word 作り [つくり] is a versatile term that appears in various contexts of the language, from object descriptions to cultural expressions. If you've ever wondered about its meaning, translation, or how to use it correctly in sentences, this article will clarify those doubts. Here, we will explore everything from its origin and writing to practical memorization tips, all based on reliable sources like the Jisho.org dictionary and academic references. Suki Nihongo, one of the best online Japanese dictionaries, is also a great tool to deepen your knowledge about like this.

Meaning and uses of 作り [つくり]

The term 作り [つくり] can be translated as "construction," "manufacturing," or even "making," depending on the context. It derives from the verb 作る [つくる], which means "to make" or "to create." This word is often used to describe the way something has been produced, whether it's a physical object, a meal, or even a work of art.

In everyday situations, you might hear phrases like "この家の作りは頑丈だ" (kono ie no tsukuri wa ganjō da), which means "The construction of this house is sturdy." Here, 作り refers to the structure or the way the house was built. Another common example is in cooking, such as "寿司の作り方を学ぶ" (sushi no tsukurikata o manabu), or "learning how to make sushi."

Origin and writing of the kanji 作

The kanji 作 is composed of the radical 亻 (person) and 乍 (cut, divide), suggesting the idea of a person creating or shaping something. This combination reflects the meaning of "to make" or "to produce" quite well. The reading つくり (tsukuri) is one of the kun'yomi forms, that is, the native Japanese pronunciation of the kanji, while the on'yomi reading (of Chinese origin) is "saku".

It is worth noting that 作り is not just a technical term. It also appears in cultural expressions and proverbs, such as "手作り" (tezukuri), which means "handmade" and carries a connotation of care and dedication. This type of usage reinforces how the word is rooted in everyday life and Japanese values.

Tips for memorizing and using 作り correctly

An effective way to reinforce the meaning of 作り is to associate it with practical situations. For example, think about objects around you and try to describe them using the word: "この椅子の作りはシンプルだ" (kono isu no tsukuri wa shinpuru da) – "The construction of this chair is simple". Repeating this exercise helps to internalize the term.

Another tip is to pay attention to how the word appears in animes, dramas, or even on the packaging of Japanese products. Often, it is accompanied by other kanjis forming compounds, such as "手作り" (handmade) or "日本作り" (made in Japan). Observing these patterns makes learning and natural usage in daily life easier.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 造り (zukuri) - Structure; construction; manufacturing.
• 仕立て (shitate) - Crafting; preparation; arrangement.
• 製作 (seisaku) - Production; creation; crafting of an artistic work.
• 製造 (seizō) - Manufacturing; mass production.
• 作成 (sakusei) - Creation; elaboration; formation.
• 作製 (sakusei) - Production; manufacturing, usually in relation to physical goods.
• 作り出し (tsukuridashi) - Creation; production, emphasizing the act of producing.
• 作り手 (tsukurite) - Artisan; creator; someone who produces something.
• 作り物 (tsukurimono) - Work; created product; manufactured object.
• 作物 (sakumotsu) - Harvest; agricultural production; cultivated plants.
• 作品作り方 (sakuhin tsukurikata) - Method of creating works; artistic production technique.
• 作り (tsukuri) - Production; manufacturing; the act of creating or making.