Translation and Meaning of: 手元 - temoto

The Japanese word 手元 (てもと, temoto) is a versatile term that frequently appears in everyday life and in various contexts of the Japanese language. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the meaning and use of this expression, this article will explore everything from its basic translation to cultural nuances and practical examples. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and precise explanations for those who wish to deeply understand the language.

Meaning and Translation of 手元

In its simplest form, 手元 means "within reach" or "close to oneself." The word is composed of the kanjis 手 (hand) and 元 (origin, base), suggesting something that is literally or metaphorically under your immediate control. Unlike like 近く (near), 手元 carries a notion of closeness associated with practicality and easy access.

In the translation to Portuguese, depending on the context, it can be interpreted as "in hand," "at hand," or even "in the present moment." For example, if someone says 手元に本があります (Temoto ni hon ga arimasu), it means "I have a book at hand" or "The book is with me now."

Everyday Lies and Common Contexts

手元 is frequently used in everyday situations, such as when talking about physical objects. If you are cooking and ask 包丁は手元にありますか？ (Hōchō wa temoto ni arimasu ka?), you are asking if the knife is within reach. In the workplace, phrases like 資料を手元に置いてください (Shiryō o temoto ni oite kudasai) request to keep the documents at hand.

In addition to its literal meaning, the word also appears in abstract contexts. In discussions about finance, 手元資金 (temoto shikin) refers to "money available at the moment." In discussions about time, 手元に時間がない (Temoto ni jikan ga nai) expresses the lack of time in the present.

Tips for Memorizing and Curiosities

An effective way to fix 手元 is to associate it with actions that require something immediately accessible. Think of situations like driving ("is the phone within reach?") or studying ("is the dictionary at hand?"). This kind of practical connection helps internalize the term.

Interestingly, 手元 also has a specific use in Japanese tea ceremonies, where it refers to the area near the host where the utensils are handled. This detail shows how the word is rooted in cultural traditions, reinforcing its meaning of control and proximity.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 手元 (temoto) - Side of the hand; within reach of the hands
• 手元に (temoto ni) - At hand; within reach
• 手元にある (temoto ni aru) - Be within reach; be at hand
• 手元に置く (temoto ni oku) - Put within reach; leave at hand
• 手元に持つ (temoto ni motsu) - Have in hand; hold within reach
• 手元に置いた (temoto ni oita) - Placed within reach
• 手元にあった (temoto ni atta) - Was within reach
• 手元にあるもの (temoto ni aru mono) - Things that are within reach
• 手元に置いておく (temoto ni oite oku) - Leave within reach (for future use)
• 手元にある書類 (temoto ni aru shorui) - Documents that are within reach
• 手元に置いておける (temoto ni oite okeru) - Be able to make it accessible
• 手元にある資料 (temoto ni aru shiryo) - Various materials that are within reach
• 手元にある本 (temoto ni aru hon) - Books that are within reach
• 手元に置いておいた (temoto ni oite oita) - Left within reach
• 手元にあるものを見る (temoto ni aru mono o miru) - See the things that are within reach
• 手元にあるものを確認する (temoto ni aru mono o kakunin suru) - Confirm the things that are within reach.
• 手元にあるものを探す (temoto ni aru mono o sagasu) - Look for the things that are within reach
• 手元にあるものを整理する (temoto ni aru mono o seiri suru) - Organize the things that are within reach.