Translation and Meaning of: 行い - okonai

The Japanese word 行い [おこない] is a term that sparks curiosity both for its writing and its meaning. In this article, we will explore what it represents, its origin, how it is used in daily life, and some tips to memorize it. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in Japanese culture, understanding 行い can enrich your vocabulary and your perception of the language.

Meaning and translation of 行い [おこない]

行い is a noun that means "action," "behavior," or "conduct." It refers to acts performed by someone, whether they are good or bad. The word carries a more formal nuance and is often used in contexts involving moral or ethical judgment. For example, when discussing a person's actions in a specific situation.

In Portuguese, the closest translation would be "conduct" or "act," depending on the context. It is worth noting that 行い is not limited to just physical actions, but can also encom attitudes and intentions. This broadness makes the word quite versatile in more serious conversations and texts.

Origin and writing of the kanji 行い

The kanji 行い is composed of 行 (which means "to go" or "to do") combined with the suffix い, which transforms the verb into a noun. This structure is common in words that derive from actions, such as 食べ物 (food) or 飲み物 (drink). The root 行 appears in various other related to movement or execution, like 行動 (action/behavior) and 行事 (event/ceremony).

It is interesting to note that, although the kanji 行 is often associated with physical movement, in 行い it takes on a more abstract meaning. This duality is common in Japanese, where the same character can have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used.

How to use 行い in daily life

行い frequently appears in discussions about ethics, education, and even in news articles. For example, when commenting on the behavior of a politician or the actions of a company, it's common to hear phrases like 「彼の行いは立派だった」 (His behavior was irable). The word can also be used in more personal contexts, such as when reflecting on one's own attitudes.

A tip for memorizing 行い is to associate it with situations where actions have consequences. Think of stories or news where someone's behavior was decisive. This emotional connection helps to fix the term in memory. Additionally, practicing with simple sentences like 「行いを改める」 (change behavior) can be useful for consolidating learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 実施 (jisshi) - Implementation, carrying out something as planned.
• 実行 (jikkou) - Execution of a plan or action.
• 施行 (shikou) - Promulgation or execution of a law or regulation.
• 履行 (rikou) - Fulfillment of obligations or contracts.
• 執行 (shikkou) - Execution of an order or decision, often in a legal context.
• 行動 (koudou) - Action or activity, usually referring to behaviors or movements.