Translation and Meaning of: 獲物 - emono

The Japanese word 獲物[えもの] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and use in different contexts, from everyday situations to more specific expressions. Additionally, we will see how this word is perceived by native speakers and tips for memorizing it efficiently.

Meaning and translation of 獲物 [えもの] (emono)

獲物[えもの] is a word that translates to "prey" or "game," referring to something captured, whether by predatory animals or even by humans in contexts of hunting or fishing. However, its use is not limited to the literal sense. In more colloquial situations, it can be used metaphorically to describe something conquered, like a prize or a goal achieved.

It is worth noting that, although the term is primarily associated with hunting activities, it also appears in broader contexts. For example, in competitions or games, it can be used to refer to a defeated opponent or a reward obtained after an effort. This flexibility makes it a useful word in different situations.

Origin and writing in kanji

The composition of 獲物 in kanji helps to better understand its meaning. The first character, 獲, contains the radical for "dog" (犭) and is related to the idea of capturing or obtaining something. The second kanji, 物, means "thing" or "object," reinforcing the notion of something that has been acquired or conquered. This combination reflects well the original sense of the word, linked to hunting and obtaining something through effort.

It is interesting to note that, although the term is written with kanji, the reading えもの is a kun'yomi form, meaning the native Japanese pronunciation, rather than the Chinese reading (on'yomi). This suggests that the word was already present in the language before the massive influence of Chinese characters, maintaining its cultural roots in Japan.

Cultural usage and frequency in everyday life

獲物 [えもの] is not an extremely common word in everyday conversation, but it appears frequently in narratives involving hunting, fishing, or competitions. In animes and manga, for example, it can be found in battle or strategy scenes, where characters refer to their opponents or objectives as "prey." This dramatic connotation often adds to the tension of the scene.

Outside of fiction, the term can be heard in regions where hunting is still a relevant activity, such as in rural areas. However, in urban contexts, its use is rarer and tends to appear only in idiomatic expressions or metaphors. Even so, knowing this word is useful for those who want to better understand the Japanese language as a whole.

Tips for memorizing 獲物[えもの]

An effective way to reinforce this word is to associate it with vivid mental images. For example, thinking of a hunter holding its "prey" while saying えもの can help create a strong connection between the term and its meaning. Another strategy is to use it in simple sentences, such as "Yesterday, I caught a prey," even if fictitiously.

In addition, studying the kanjis individually can make learning easier. Knowing that 獲 is related to the idea of capture and 物 means "thing" makes it easier to deduce the general meaning of the word. This approach is especially useful for those who are already familiar with other words that share the same characters.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 獲物 (えもの) - prey, captured object
• とりこ (とりこ) - something that was captured, captive
• かりもの (かりもの) - something that was borrowed or taken temporarily
• かちもの (かちもの) - gain, prize
• しゅとくもの (しゅとくもの) - something acquired or obtained
• とり (とり) - animal that is hunted or captured
• えさ (えさ) - bait, lure to attract animals
• えじき (えじき) - target, prey, what is targeted for capture
• かかり (かかり) - responsible, in charge of something
• かつ (かつ) - win, gain (but it has other connotations, including the act of capturing)
• しゅとく (しゅとく) - acquisition, obtaining something
• とりあげ (とりあげ) - take, remove something from someone
• とりこみ (とりこみ) - incorporation, capturing of something
• とりだし (とりだし) - removal, extraction of something
• もの (もの) - thing, object
• ものさし (ものさし) - ruler, a measure of something