Translation and Meaning of: 導く - michibiku

The Japanese word 「導く」 (michibiku) is a verb that means "to guide," "to lead," or "to conduct." The etymology of this word traces back to the root verb 「導く」, which is composed of the kanji 「導」 (michi) that implies guidance or direction, and the verbal suffix 「く」 (kuru), which implies action or occurrence. This verb is often used in contexts where someone is offering guidance or leadership, whether in a literal sense, such as guiding someone along a path, or in a figurative sense, like advising or teaching someone.

The kanji 「導」 is composed of two elements: 「⺭」, which suggests an idea of movement or route, and 「寸」, which implies measuring or dividing, reflecting the idea of a careful and guided action. This kanji, therefore, carries the notion of guiding someone thoughtfully through a path or process. This combination of elements capturing the essence of leading or guiding someone through a well-planned and executed route is essential to understand the usage and nuance of the word 「導く」.

In Japan, guidance and leadership are culturally deeply rooted values, and the word 「導く」 often appears in both educational and business contexts. Teachers, mentors, and business leaders are figures who "lead" or "guide" their students or employees through challenges and processes of learning and development. The role of a guide or leader, represented by 「導く」, emphasizes the importance of wise and effective leadership, characteristics highly valued in societies around the world. In addition to its literal use, this word is metaphorically used in various situations to express the and direction that someone offers to another in their personal or professional journey.

Variations and Additional Usage of 「導く」

• In the ive form, 「導かれる」 (michibikareru) means being guided or led, indicating a subject that is under the guidance of another person.
• Another variation is 「導ける」 (michibikeru), which is the potential form and expresses the ability or possibility of guiding something or someone.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 導く

• 導く - Positive form, base form
• 導かない - negative form
• 導いた - simple past
• 導いている - Present Continuous

Synonyms and similar words

• 導き (Michibiki) - Indozer, guide, lead
• 導ける (Michibikeru) - To be able to guide, lead
• 案内する (An'nai suru) - To give guidance, to lead (with information, like on a tour)
• 指し示す (Sashi shimesu) - Indicate, show
• 教える (Oshieru) - Teach, inform (more about transmitting knowledge)
• 導引する (Doin suru) - Guide, lead (emphasizing leadership)
• 導出する (Dōshutsu suru) - Deduce, infer (lead to a conclusion)
• 導入する (Dōnyū suru) - Introduce, implement (bring something new)
• 導線を引く (Dōsen o hiku) - Trace a path (referring to a driving path, as in electricity)
• 導体を通す (Daitai o tōsu) - To through a conductor (referring to materials that conduct electricity)
• 導火線をつける (Dōkasen o tsukeru) - Light a fuse (emphasizing the act of lighting)
• 導電性のある (Dōdensē no aru) - That has electrical conductivity (describing materials)