Translation and Meaning of: 育てる - sodateru

The Japanese word 育てる [そだてる] is an essential verb for anyone wishing to understand not only the language but also cultural aspects of Japan. Its main meaning relates to the act of raising, educating, or cultivating something or someone, whether it's a child, a plant, or even a skill. In this article, we will explore the usage of this word in everyday life, its origin, and how it reflects important values of Japanese society.

In addition, we will see how 育てる appears in different contexts, from informal conversations to deeper expressions. If you are learning Japanese, understanding this word can help not only with vocabulary but also with grasping how the Japanese view growth and development. Let's start with the basics and then dive into fascinating details about this term.

Meaning and usage of 育てる

育てる is a verb that means "to raise," "to educate," or "to cultivate." It can be used both in a literal sense, such as caring for plants or animals, and in a figurative sense, like developing skills or relationships. For example, the Japanese use this word to talk about raising children (子供を育てる) or cultivating a garden (庭を育てる).

The interesting thing is that 育てる carries a nuance of dedication and patience. It's not just about making something grow, but about nurturing it with attention and continuous effort. This idea is deeply connected to Japanese culture, which values meticulous care and gradual growth in various areas of life.

Origin and components of kanji

The kanji 育てる is 育, which by itself means "to raise" or "to educate." It is composed of the radical 月 (tsuki), which represents "meat" or "body," and the component 云 (un), which suggests movement or growth. Together, these elements convey the idea of nurturing something to develop, whether physically or intellectually.

It is worth noting that 育 also appears in other important words, such as 教育 (きょういく, education) and 発育 (はついく, physical development). This shows how the concept of growth is rooted in the language and mindset of Japan, reflecting a society that prioritizes learning and constant evolution.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to the meaning of 育てる is to associate it with everyday situations. Think about how a plant needs water and light to grow – this process requires time and care, just as the word suggests. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "野菜を育てる" (grow vegetables) or "才能を育てる" (develop a talent).

Furthermore, pay attention to the context in which 育てる is used. While some verbs may be interchangeable in Portuguese, in Japanese this word has a more specific meaning of nurturing something over time. Avoid confusing it with like 作る (to make) or 教える (to teach), which have different applications.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 育成する (ikusei suru) - Foster growth, develop skills, or potential.
• 養成する (yousei suru) - To develop or train specific skills, especially in a professional field.
• 教育する (kyouiku suru) - Teach and educate, focusing on a comprehensive knowledge and academic training.
• 培う (tsubaeru) - Cultivate or nurture, especially in a more personal or emotional sense.