Translation and Meaning of: 手伝い - tetsudai

The Japanese word 手伝い (てつだい, tetsudai) is a common term in the daily life of Japan, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. If you have ever wondered about its exact meaning, how to use it correctly, or even its origin, this article will clarify those doubts. Here, we will explore everything from the basic translation to cultural aspects that make this word unique. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, has gathered precise information to help students and curious individuals master the use of 手伝い in real contexts.

Meaning and Translation of 手伝い

手伝い is often translated as "help" or "assistance," but its meaning goes beyond Portuguese. While in some languages "help" can be generic, in Japanese it implies active collaboration, often physical or practical. For example, 手伝いましょうか (tetsudaimashou ka) means "can I help?", suggesting direct involvement in the task.

It is important to note that 手伝い does not refer to emotional or abstract assistance, such as advice. Its use is linked to concrete actions, such as helping carry groceries or tidying up a room. This specificity is essential to avoid misunderstandings when talking to natives.

Origin and Composition of Kanjis

The writing of 手伝い reveals a lot about its meaning. The first kanji, 手 (て, te), means "hand," while 伝 (つた, tsuta) is associated with "transmit" or " along." Together, they create the idea of "lending a hand" to something or someone, reinforcing the concept of practical help. This composition is a classic example of how kanjis build meanings from visual elements.

Interestingly, 手伝い is one of the few words where 伝い is read as つだい (tsudai), an uncommon reading for this kanji. This detail often causes students to confuse the pronunciation, but it also serves as a mnemonic hint: think of "hands that move" (手) to "" (伝) the work along.

Cultural Use and Appropriate Contexts

In Japan, offering 手伝い is a valued gesture, especially in domestic or work environments. Unlike cultures where insisting on helping may be seen as intrusive, there it is common to ask 何か手伝うことありますか (nanika tetsudau koto arimasu ka) – "is there anything I can help with?". This question demonstrates politeness and a cooperative spirit, which are central values in Japanese society.

On the other hand, refusing help without reason can be interpreted as a lack of trust in others. In offices, for example, dividing tasks with colleagues using 手伝い strengthens teamwork. This aspect reflects the principle of 和 (wa), group harmony that is so important in the local culture.

Practical Tips for Memorization

An effective way to memorize 手伝い is to associate it with everyday situations. Imagine yourself helping to set the table for dinner – an action that involves hands (手) and the transfer (伝) of objects. This mental exercise creates a visual anchor for the word.

Another strategy is to practice with short phrases like 掃除を手伝う (souji o tetsudau) – "helping to clean". Repeating it out loud while doing small tasks reinforces the connection between the word and the action. Over time, using 手伝い correctly will become natural.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 手配り (tebukuro) - distribution
• 助手 (joshu) - Assistente
• 補佐 (hosa) - help, assistance
• 援助 (enjo) - , financial assistance
• 協力 (kyouryoku) - cooperation
• 支援 (shien) - ,
• お手伝い (otetsudai) - Help, assistance (general)
• 世話 (sewa) - care, assistance
• 介抱 (kaihou) - Care, help (usually in a nursing context)
• 手助け (tedasuke) - Assistance, practical help
• 手引き (tebiki) - Guide, assistance in direction towards something
• 手続き (tetsuzuki) - Process, procedure (which may involve assistance)
• 手作業 (te sagyou) - Handicraft, made by hand (includes assistance)
• 手仕事 (te shigoto) - Manual labor often refers to craftwork.
• 手元 (temoto) - In hand, at disposal (can refer to assistance available)
• 手配 (tehai) - Arrangement, organization (may involve coordinating assistance)
• 手回り (temawari) - Organization or arrangement of the things you have on hand
• 手際 (tezawa) - Skill, dexterity (in assistance or help)
• 手先 (tesaki) - Manual dexterity, skill in carrying out tasks (may include assistance)
• 手掛かり (tegakari) - Indication, clue (that may lead to help)
• 手掛ける (tegakeru) - Working on something, taking care of a task (which may involve help)
• 手厚い (teatsui) - Generous, warm (usually referring to help or )
• 手抜き (tenuki) - Shortcut, oversight (in help or work)
• 手放す (tebanasu) - Let go, release (it can be the opposite of helping)
• 手本 (tehon) - Example, model (to assist someone in learning)
• 手強い (tegowai) - Tough, strong (in the context of a challenge to be overcome with help)
• 手応え (tegoto) - Reaction, positive upon receiving help
• 手数 (tesuu) - Effort, amount of work (usually refers to help required)
• 手順 (tezun) - Procedures, steps (that can be followed when seeking help)
• 手筋 (temusubi) - Strategy, method (in assistance)