Translation and Meaning of: 弱い - yowai

The word 「弱い」 (yowai) is a Japanese adjective that means "weak" or "feeble." This term is commonly used to describe not only physical strength but also emotional, mental conditions, and even abstract circumstances, such as arguments or reasons. The versatility of "yowai" makes it especially useful in daily life, where many situations can be described through this lens of fragility or lack of strength.

Etymologically, 「弱い」 (yowai) is composed of the kanji 「弱」, which is read as よわ and conveys the idea of weakness and vulnerability. This kanji, in turn, is composed of the radicals 「弓」 that suggests "bow" and 「虫」 that indicates "insect," a combination that traces back to ancient pictographic representations, symbolizing the fragility of a bow in the wind or the delicacy of an insect. This pictorial composition suggests an inherent quality of fragility present in things considered "weak."

The origin of the term's use in Japan dates back to the classical use of Chinese kanjis, where writing was used to communicate ideas and concepts in a visual and simple manner. With the samurai during the feudal period, the idea of "yowai" took on different nuances, as in the context of war, showing weakness could have serious consequences. Although this context has changed in the modern era, the word still holds significant connotations in today's Japanese society, reflecting ideas of overcoming and self-development.

In modern usage, 「弱い」 (yowai) can be contrasted with its antonym 「強い」 (tsuyoi), which means "strong." This dichotomy frequently appears in conversations, literature, and even entertainment products like anime and mangas, reinforcing themes of personal growth, achievements, and the importance of overcoming one's weaknesses. In summary, understanding the meaning of "yowai" is also to understand a little more about the culture and resilient spirit that permeates Japanese society.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 弱弱しい (Yowayowashii) - Weak, delicate, with an appearance of fragility.
• 脆弱な (Zeijaku na) - Fragile, susceptible to damage, vulnerable.
• 弱々しい (Yowayowashii) - Similar to 弱弱しい, it emphasizes an apparent weakness.
• 弱小な (Jakushou na) - Small, in of power or capacity, weak in comparison to others.
• 弱気な (Yowaki na) - Shy, insecure, with a weak mental state.
• 虚弱な (Kyojaku na) - Weak, especially in of health.
• 軟弱な (Nanjaku na) - Fragile, soft, which is not firm or sturdy.
• 弱体な (Jakutai na) - Physically or mentally weak, unable to resist.
• 弱気を見せる (Yowaki o miseru) - Show insecurity or hesitance.
• 弱点を突かれる (Jakuten o tsukareru) - Having exposed weaknesses, being attacked in your vulnerabilities.

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