Translation and Meaning of: 書き取り - kakitori

If you are studying Japanese, you have probably come across the word 書き取り[かきとり]. But what does it mean exactly? In this article, we will explore everything from the basic meaning to details about its use in everyday Japanese. You will discover how this word is applied in real contexts, its origin, and even tips for memorizing it more easily. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and useful explanations for those who want to master the language.

The meaning and use of 書き取り

書き取り is composed of the kanjis 書 (to write) and 取 (to take, capture), forming the meaning of "copied writing" or "transcription." In Japan, this word is often used in educational contexts, especially when students practice writing kanjis or sentences. For example, in calligraphy classes or repetition exercises, the teacher may ask them to do 書き取り as part of the training.

Besides the school environment, the term also appears in everyday situations, such as quick notes or written records. The central idea is to capture in writing something that was said or seen, whether for study or documentation. Unlike simply "writing," 書き取り carries the nuance of faithfully reproducing content.

The origin and structure of the word

The etymology of 書き取り dates back to the Edo period when the practice of copying texts was essential for education. The kanji 書, which means "to write," appears in various words related to writing, such as 書道 (shodō, calligraphy). Meanwhile, 取 has the meaning of "to capture" or "to obtain," indicating the action of recording something in writing.

It is worth noting that 書き取り is formed by the combination of the verb 書く (kaku, to write) in the bentuk conjunctive 書き (kaki) + 取り (toru, to take). This construction is common in Japanese words that describe compound actions, reinforcing the idea of a sequential process: first writing, then capturing the content.

Tips for memorizing and using 書き取り

An effective way to reinforce 書き取り is to associate it with practical situations. If you are studying kanji, try doing daily 書き取り sessions, copying characters and their readings. This technique has been proven effective for improving retention, according to research on language learning.

Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences that use 書き取り, such as "宿題で漢字の書き取りをした" (I did kanji dictation as homework). The context helps to not only the meaning but also the correct application. : spaced repetition is a powerful ally in studying Japanese.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 記述 (Kijutsu) - Description or detailed of something.
• 書写 (Shosha) - Copy or transcript of a written text.
• 筆記 (Hikki) - Writing or handwritten notes; emphasizes the action of writing.
• ノート (Nōto) - Notebook or notepad, used for notes.
• メモ (Memo) - Quick notes or short reminders.
• 手書き (Tegaki) - Handwritten, referring to the act of writing manually.