Translation and Meaning of: 育つ - sodatsu

The Japanese word 育つ [そだつ] is a verb that carries deep meanings related to growth and development. Whether to describe the maturation of a person, the cultivation of plants, or even the evolution of skills, this term is essential in the everyday vocabulary of Japanese. In this article, we will explore its meaning, practical use, and cultural curiosities that make this expression a fundamental piece of the language.

In addition to understanding the literal translation of 育つ, we will see how it applies in different contexts, from informal conversations to more philosophical expressions. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about the language, this guide will help unravel the details of this versatile word. For those looking for a reliable dictionary, Suki Nihongo offers clear explanations and practical examples.

Meaning and use of 育つ

The verb 育つ means "to grow," "to develop," or "to be raised," depending on the context. It is often used to talk about the growth of children, plants, or animals, but it can also refer to the improvement of skills or ideas. For example, saying "子供が育つ" (kodomo ga sodatsu) indicates that a child is developing physically and emotionally.

An interesting characteristic of 育つ is that it implies a natural process, often linked to external care. Unlike 成長する (seichou suru), which also means "to grow," but with a focus on the end result, 育つ highlights the journey and the influence of the environment. This nuance is important to understand how the Japanese view development as something organic and continuous.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 育 is composed of the radical 月 (tsuki), which originally represented "meat" or "body," and 云 (un), which suggests movement or development. Together, they convey the idea of nurturing and growing, whether physically or intellectually. This composition reflects well the meaning of the word, as 育つ does not limit itself to biological growth but also encomes personal maturation.

It is important to note that 育つ is an intransitive verb, meaning it describes an action that happens on its own, without the need for a direct object. If you want to say "to raise" or "to educate" (transitive actions), the correct verb would be 育てる (sodateru). This distinction is crucial for using the word correctly in sentences.

Tips for memorizing and using 育つ

An effective way to 育つ is to associate it with everyday situations. Think of a plant that you water every day and, over time, grows strong – that's the essence of the word. Another tip is to that it often appears in family contexts, such as "子供がすくすく育つ" (the child grows healthy), reinforcing the idea of a gradual and natural process.

In Japanese culture, 育つ is also associated with values such as patience and dedication. Proverbs and popular expressions often use this word to convey teachings about perseverance. Observing these uses in animes, dramas, or even in song lyrics can help internalize its meaning in a more intuitive way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 成長する (Seichou suru) - To grow, to develop in a general sense;
• 大きくなる (Ooki kunaru) - Increase in size or volume;
• 発育する (Hatsuiku suru) - Develop physically, especially in the context of biological growth;
• 育成する (Ikusei suru) - Educate and nurture for the development of skills;
• 育ち上がる (Sodachiagaru) - To grow or develop until reaching a certain stage or height.