Translation and Meaning of: 突く - tsuku

The Japanese word 突く[つく] is a versatile verb that appears in various contexts, ranging from everyday situations to more specific expressions. If you are studying Japanese or simply have an interest in the language, understanding its meaning, origin, and usage can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore everything about 突く, including its translation, application in sentences, and even cultural curiosities that help memorize it.

The verb 突く carries interesting nuances, such as the idea of piercing, poking, or even challenging something. It is often used both in a physical and figurative sense, making it a useful word for those who want to communicate naturally in Japanese. Let's unveil its details below.

Meaning and translation of 突く

突く can be translated in various ways depending on the context. Its main meaning involves actions like "to poke", "to stab", or "to pierce". For example, when talking about someone poking an object with a stick, you can use 突く to describe that precise and pointed movement.

In addition to its physical meaning, this verb can also convey abstract ideas, such as "to challenge" or "to confront." In expressions like 危険を突く (to challenge danger), it takes on a more metaphorical tone. This duality makes 突く a dynamic word, applicable in various everyday situations.

Origin and writing of the kanji 突

The kanji 突 is composed of two main elements: the radical 穴 (ana), meaning "hole," and 犬 (inu), which represents "dog." This combination suggests the idea of something being pierced or penetrated quickly, like a dog digging a hole. The etymology reinforces the sense of a punctual and direct action present in the verb.

It is worth noting that 突く is a group 1 (godan) verb, which means its conjugation follows a specific pattern. Knowing to identify its grammatical class helps to use it correctly in sentences, avoiding common mistakes among Japanese language learners.

Cultural usage and frequency in everyday life

In Japan, 突く appears frequently in informal conversations and even in fixed expressions. One of them is 突っ込む (tsukkomu), which derives from 突く and means "to intervene" or "to get involved," often used in comedies to describe someone who interrupts a joke with a sharp comment.

Additionally, this word can be found in more serious contexts, such as discussions about strategy or sports. For example, in kendō (Japanese fencing), the term is used to describe precise strikes. This variety of applications shows how 突く is rooted in both colloquial language and formal situations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 突く

• 突く - 形 dictionary
• 突いて - Shape て 終止形
• 突いた - Past form た 形
• 突けば - conditional ば形
• 突かせる - Causative form to 終止形

Synonyms and similar words

• 突き (tsuki) - Blow, push or hit with force.
• 刺す (sasu) - Perforation or stabbing, usually with a sharp object.
• 刺し (sashi) - Nominal form of 'sasu', related to drilling.
• 刺し込む (sashikomu) - Insert or fit with the tip of an object.
• 突き刺す (tsukisasu) - Rapid or strong drilling, a sharp blow.
• 突き刺し (tsukisashi) - Nominal form related to 'tsukisasu', emphasizing the action of piercing.
• 突きつける (tsukitsukeru) - Pointing or forcing something in someone's direction.
• 突き上げる (tsukiageru) - To lift or raise something with a hit or push.
• 突き放す (tsukihanasu) - To affect or push someone away, usually in a sudden manner.
• 突き飛ばす (tsukitobasu) - Push hard to knock down or move away.
• 突き倒す (tsukitaosu) - Knock down by a blow or shove.
• 突き抜ける (tsukinukeru) - Completely penetrate or through an object.
• 突き破る (tsukiyaburu) - Break or destroy when piercing.
• 突き進む (tsukisusumu) - Advance or progress aggressively.
• 突き出す (tsukidasu) - Push or project outwards.
• 突き返す (tsukikaesu) - To counter or return a blow or attack.