Translation and Meaning of: 必ず - kanarazu

If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, you may have come across the word 必ず (かならず). This expression is quite common in everyday life and carries an important meaning for those who want to master the language. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, usage in sentences, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for those looking to truly learn Japanese.

What does 必ず mean and how to use it?

The word 必ず is an adverb that means "certainly," "without fail," or "necessarily." It conveys the idea of something that will inevitably happen or must be done. Unlike other similar , such as きっと (kitto) or 絶対に (zettai ni), 必ず carries a more objective and factual tone, often indicating a logical consequence or an obligation.

A classic example of use is in promises or instructions. If someone says 必ず戻ります (kanarazu modorimasu), it means "I will definitely return." This word also frequently appears in manuals, warnings, and situations that require precision, reinforcing its assertive nature.

The origin and writing of 必ず

The kanji 必 (hitsu) means "necessary" or "certain," while the hiragana ず (zu) acts as a suffix that reinforces the idea of negation or certainty. Together, they form an expression that was already used in ancient Japanese, maintaining its essence throughout the centuries. Interestingly, the kanji 必 is composed of the radical 心 (heart/mind) and a stroke that symbolizes determination, reinforcing its meaning of something inevitable.

It is worth noting that although it is written with kanji, 必ず can also appear only in hiragana (かならず) in informal texts or to make reading easier. However, the kanji version is the most common in written materials, such as books and documents.

Tips to memorize and use 必ず in daily life

An effective way to memorize 必ず is to associate it with situations that require commitment or guaranteed results. For example, think of phrases like "the sun 必ず rises" or "I 必ず finish my work". This word frequently appears in animes and dramas, especially in scenes of determination or important promises.

Another tip is to practice with short and direct examples, such as 必ず来てね (kanarazu kite ne – "be sure to come!"). Repeating these structures in real contexts helps to internalize the correct usage. If you use apps like Anki, creating cards with practical sentences can accelerate your learning.

Mastering 必ず is essential for anyone looking to sound natural in Japanese, whether in conversation or reading. If you want to explore more words like this, be sure to check out other articles here on Suki Nihongo, the best Japanese dictionary for dedicated students.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 必ずしも (kanarazushimo) - Not always; not necessarily.
• 必ずしも〜とは限らない (kanarazushimo ~ to wa kagiranai) - It cannot be said that ~ is always the case.
• 必ずしも〜とは言えない (kanarazushimo ~ to wa ienai) - One cannot say that ~ is always the case.
• 必ずしも〜とは限定できない (kanarazushimo ~ to wa gentei dekinai) - It is not possible to restrict ~ to this case.
• 必ずしも〜とは言い切れない (kanarazushimo ~ to wa iikirenai) - It cannot be stated categorically that ~ is always the case.
• 必ずしも〜とは断言できない (kanarazushimo ~ to wa dangen dekinai) - One cannot declare with certainty that ~ is always the case.