Translation and Meaning of: 弾く - hajiku

The Japanese word 弾く[はじく] is a verb that carries interesting meanings and various uses in everyday life in Japan. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is perceived in the Japanese language. Additionally, we will see practical examples and tips for memorizing its correct usage. Whether you are studying Japanese or just curious about this expression, this guide will help you better understand 弾く[はじく].

Meaning and usage of 弾く [はじく]

The verb 弾く[はじく] has two main meanings. The first is "to pluck" or "to play a string instrument," like a guitar or koto. The second meaning is "to repel" or "to make something bounce," such as when water droplets slide off a waterproof surface. This duality makes the word versatile in different contexts.

In daily life, the Japanese use 弾く both to describe musical actions and physical phenomena. For example, saying "雨を弾くコート" (a coat that repels rain) is as natural as "ギターを弾く" (playing the guitar). This flexibility makes the word appear in everyday conversations and even in song lyrics.

Origin and writing in kanji

The kanji 弾 is composed of the radical "bow" (弓) and the component "dan", which refers to sound or impact. This combination reflects the meanings of the word well, as both playing instruments and repelling something involve movement and energy. The reading はじく is kun'yomi, meaning the native Japanese pronunciation associated with the character.

It's worth noting that 弾く is not an extremely common verb, but it's not rare either. It often appears in specific contexts, such as discussions about music or descriptions of repellent materials. Japanese students may encounter this word in manuals or even in animes that involve musical performances.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to 弾く is to associate its two main meanings with concrete situations. Imagine a musician plucking the strings of an instrument - this quick motion can be compared to drops of water being "repelled" by a surface. This image helps to connect the seemingly distinct uses of the word.

To practice, try creating simple sentences like "彼はピアノを弾く" (He plays piano) or "この生地は水を弾く" (This fabric repels water). Observing the word in real contexts, such as song lyrics or product descriptions, also reinforces learning. Over time, the correct use of 弾く will become natural.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 弾く

• 弾く - base form
• 弾かない - Negative
• 弾いた - Past
• 弾いて - Continuous form
• 弾くだろう - Conditional

Synonyms and similar words

• 弾き (hajiki) - bounce, play (instrument)
• 引く (hiku) - pull, drag
• 引っ張る (hipparu) - pull hard
• 引き抜く (hikinuku) - pull out, extract
• 引き起こす (hikiokosu) - to provoke, to cause (something)
• 引き戻す (hikimodosu) - return, bring back
• 引き返す (hikikaesu) - return, go back (by the same path)
• 引き締める (hikishimeru) - tighten, harden
• 引き出す (hikidasu) - extract, bring out (can refer to documents)
• 引き伸ばす (hikinobasu) - to lengthen, to extend
• 引きずる (hikizuru) - drag, carry (something back)
• 引き寄せる (hikiyoseru) - attract, pull closer
• 引き込む (hikikomu) - call inside, wrap
• 引きつける (hikitsukeru) - capture attention, attract
• 引き受ける (hikiukeru) - accept, take on (responsibility)
• 引き分ける (hikiwakeru) - to tie (a game)
• 引き渡す (hikiwatasu) - deliver, on
• 引き継ぐ (hikitsugu) - inherit, it on (responsibility)
• 引き裂く (hikisaku) - tear, break
• 引き離す (hikihanasu) - separate, distance
• 引き換える (hikikaeru) - Change, replace