Translation and Meaning of: 親しむ - shitashimu

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 親しむ[したしむ]. It carries a rich meaning and is often used in everyday Japanese, but it can be a bit challenging to understand at first glance. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is perceived in Japanese culture, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

親しむ is a verb that expresses the idea of becoming familiar with something or someone, creating emotional bonds, or even getting used to a situation. Its usage goes beyond the literal sense, reflecting important cultural values in Japan. Let's dive into the details of this word and discover how it appears in different contexts.

Meaning and usage of 親しむ

親しむ can be translated as "to familiarize oneself," "to affectionately approach," or "to create intimacy." Unlike simply knowing something, this word implies a gradual process of closeness and affection. For example, the Japanese use 親しむ to describe everything from getting used to a new hobby to the development of a close friendship.

An interesting aspect is that 親しむ is not limited to human relationships. You can use it to talk about getting accustomed to a place, an activity, or even an object. This versatility means that the word appears in various contexts, from informal conversations to more formal texts, always carrying a nuance of affection and familiarity.

The origin and the kanji of 親しむ

The word 親しむ is composed of the kanji 親, which means "father," "mother," or "close relative," followed by the auxiliary verb しむ. The kanji 親 itself carries the idea of closeness and family ties, which helps to understand why 親しむ is related to creating emotional bonds. This connection with the concept of family reflects Japanese cultural values, where close relationships are highly valued.

It is worth noting that, although the kanji 親 is often associated with parents, in 親しむ it takes on a broader sense of connection and intimacy. This semantic flexibility is common in many Japanese verbs, which often expand their original meaning to encom more abstract concepts.

Tips to memorize and use 親しむ

An effective way to 親しむ is to associate it with the kanji 親 and the idea of forming bonds, like those we have with family. Think of situations where you gradually got closer to something or someone - whether it be a hobby, a new place, or a person. This mental association helps to grasp the true spirit of the word.

Another tip is to observe how 親しむ appears in real contexts. In animes and dramas, for example, it is common to hear phrases like "この街に親しむ" (familiarize yourself with this city) or "彼と親しくなった" (I became close to him). These examples show the word in action and help to reinforce its correct usage. At Suki Nihongo, you will find more practical examples to consolidate your learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 親しむ

• 親しむ - infinitive
• 親しめる - Potential
• 親しませる - Causative
• 親しんで - Form Te
• 親しもう - Volitive form
• 親しまない - Negative

Synonyms and similar words

• 親交を深める (shinkou wo fukameru) - Deepen friendship or personal relationships.
• 打ち解ける (uchitokeru) - Behave casually; become close.
• 仲良くなる (nakayoku naru) - Become friends; get closer in of friendship.
• 親密になる (shinmitsu ni naru) - Become close; establish an intimate and personal relationship.
• 友好的に接する (yuukouteki ni sessuru) - Interact in a friendly manner; approach someone with kindness.