Translation and Meaning of: 突く - tsutsuku

The Japanese word 突く[つつく] is a verb that can cause some confusion for language students due to its multiple meanings and uses. In this article, we will explore what this word really means, how it is written in kanji, and in which contexts it appears in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will understand a bit about its origin and how to memorize it efficiently.

If you've ever wondered how to use 突く correctly in a sentence or why it appears in certain cultural contexts, this text will help you. Here at Suki Nihongo, we always strive to provide clear explanations based on reliable sources, so you don't fall into translation traps or misunderstanding.

Meaning and use of 突く

突く is a Japanese verb that can be translated as "to poke," "to stab," or even "to pierce," depending on the context. Its basic meaning is related to a physical action of pressing or touching something with a sharp object or with fingers. For example, it can be used to describe someone poking another person to get their attention.

However, 突く also has more abstract uses. In some cases, it can mean "to point out" something, such as a mistake or a contradiction in an argument. This versatility means that the word appears in various situations, from casual conversations to more serious discussions. It is important to pay attention to the context to avoid confusing its different meanings.

Origin and writing in kanji

The kanji 突 is composed of the radical 穴 (ana), which means "hole", combined with 犬 (inu), which represents a "dog". This combination suggests the idea of something being pierced or penetrated, which makes sense considering the meanings of the verb. The reading つつく is the kun'yomi form, more common in everyday use.

It's worth noting that 突く can also be read as とつく (totsuku) in some situations, but this form is less common. The kanji itself appears in other words like 突然 (totsuzen - "suddenly") and 衝突 (shoutotsu - "collision"), highlighting its relation to quick or impactful actions.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to the meaning of 突く is to associate it with physical actions like poking or stabbing. Imagine someone using their finger to lightly poke another person - this image can help solidify the main meaning of the word. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences like "指で突く" (yubi de tsutsuku - poke with your finger).

It is important to differentiate 突く from similar verbs like 刺す (sasu - to stab) or 押す (osu - to push). While 突く generally implies a lighter and more repetitive movement, 刺す suggests a more violent and definitive action. Paying attention to these nuances will help you use the word more naturally in conversations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 突く

• 突く - base form
• 突いた - Past
• 突いている - Present Continuous
• 突かない - Negative
• 突こう - Conditional
• 突かれる - ive

Synonyms and similar words

• 突き (tsuki) - Push or stab attack
• 刺す (sasu) - To pierce or puncture with a sharp object
• 刺し (sashi) - Form of the verb "sasu," indicating something that is pierced.
• 刺し込む (sashikomu) - Insert or pierce into something
• 突き刺す (tsukisasu) - Make a stabbing or pushing movement.
• 突き刺し (tsukisashi) - Action of stabbing with a pushing motion
• 突き刺し込む (tsukisashikomu) - To stab deeply into something
• 突きつける (tsukitsukeru) - Pointing or pressing against something
• 突き上げる (tsukiageru) - Push up or lift
• 突き放す (tsukihanasu) - Push or shove forcefully
• 突き飛ばす (tsukitobasu) - Push away or knock down
• 突き倒す (tsukitaosu) - Push to knock something down
• 突き抜ける (tsukinukeru) - Pierce completely or cross
• 突き破る (tsukiyaburu) - Break or snap when pressing
• 突き進む (tsukisusumu) - Advance or progress forward
• 突き出す (tsukidasu) - Extend or project outward
• 突き押す (tsukiosu) - Push hard
• 突き返す (tsukikaesu) - Push back or reject
• 突き放つ (tsukihanatsu) - Letting go or pushing away forcefully