Translation and Meaning of: 裂く - saku

The Japanese word 裂く[さく] carries a strong and visual meaning, related to the act of tearing, dividing, or separating something with force. Whether it's a piece of paper, a fabric, or even a relationship, this verb conveys a decisive action that is often irreversible. In this article, we will explore its usage in everyday life, its origin, and how it is culturally perceived in Japan. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about linguistic nuances, understanding 裂く will enrich your vocabulary with an expressive term full of practical applications.

Meaning and use of 裂く

裂く is a Japanese verb that means "to tear," "to divide," or "to separate with force." Unlike more neutral verbs like 切る (to cut), it implies a vigorous, almost violent movement. For example, when saying someone "tore a letter" (手紙を裂いた), the mental image is of a quick and emotional action, not a careful cut.

This verb also appears in abstract contexts, such as "divide opinions" (意見を裂く) or "break relationships" (関係を裂く). The choice of 裂く instead of other similar emphasizes the idea of a sudden rupture, something that cannot be easily repaired. In literary works or dramatic dialogues, it is common to see it associated with moments of conflict or radical decisions.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 裂 is composed of the radical 衣 (clothing) and the component 列 (row, line). This combination suggests the idea of "separating fabrics" or "tearing something into lines," which makes sense given its main meaning. The reading さく (saku) is one of the most common for this character, although it can also be read as れる (reru) in ive forms.

It is worth noting that 裂く is not an archaic verb – it is fully active in modern Japanese, especially in written and spoken contexts that require emphasis. Dictionaries such as the 大辞林 and the 明鏡国語辞典 document its use since the classical period, always with the same central concept of forced division.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

A practical way to fix 裂く is to associate it with situations where something is physically torn, like paper or fabric. Imagine the classic scene of someone tearing a contract as a sign of disagreement – that's the spirit of the verb. To practice, try creating simple sentences like "She tore the photo in anger" (彼女は怒って写真を裂いた).

Avoid confusing 裂く with verbs like 破る (yaburu), which also means "to tear" but can include accidental damage. While 裂く is intentional and direct, 破る has a broader spectrum, and can even be used to mean "to break rules." Also, pay attention to the : 裂く is more common in narratives or emotional speech than in casual conversations about everyday tasks.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 裂く

• 裂く Verb:
• Gift: 裂く
• Past: 裂いた
• Future: 裂くだろう
• Imperative: 裂け
• Conditional: 裂けば

Synonyms and similar words

• 切り裂く (kirisaku) - Cut them, tear something with a blow or sharp instrument.
• 引き裂く (hikisaku) - Tearing by pulling, how to separate materials or make a tear through pressure.
• 破り裂く (yabrisaku) - Tear or break, emphasizing the act of breaking something into pieces.
• 割り裂く (warisaku) - To divide or fraction something, usually into smaller or thinner parts.
• 裂ける (sakeru) - If broken or torn accidentally, usually due to stresses or pressures.
• 断ち裂く (tachisaku) - Cut or separate decisively, emphasizing the complete division.