Translation and Meaning of: 詰まり - tsumari

The Japanese word 詰まり [つまり] is a versatile term that frequently appears in everyday life and in various linguistic contexts. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the meaning and use of this expression, this article will explore everything from its basic translation to cultural nuances. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and precise explanations for those seeking to understand the Japanese language in depth.

"つまり" can be translated in various ways depending on the context, but its central meaning revolves around ideas such as "in summary," "that is," or even "clogged." Let's unravel how this word is used, its origin, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. Whether in casual conversations or written texts, understanding つまり is essential for mastering Japanese.

Meaning and uses of 詰まり [つまり]

つまり is a word that takes on different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. One of its most common uses is as a conjunction, equivalent to "that is" or "in other words." In this case, it is used to clarify or summarize a previous idea. For example, when explaining a complex concept, a Japanese speaker might use つまり to simplify the explanation.

Furthermore, つまり can also mean "congested" or "blocked" when referring to physical objects or situations. This duality of meanings shows how Japanese often uses the same word to express seemingly distinct ideas that share a conceptual root. Learning to distinguish these uses is essential to avoid misunderstandings.

Origin and composition of the kanji 詰まり

The word 詰まり is written with the kanji 詰, which carries the idea of "tightness," "filling," or "conclusion." This character is composed of the radical 言 (related to speech) and the component 吉 (which originally represented something tight or compact). This combination suggests a connection to the notion of "ending a discussion" or "summarizing," which explains its use as a conjunction.

It is worth noting that the kanji 詰 also appears in other words such as 詰める [tsumeru] (to squeeze, to fill) and 詰め込み [tsumekomi] (accumulation), reinforcing its association with the idea of completeness or saturation. Knowing these relationships helps to understand why つまり can mean both "summary" and "blockage," as both concepts involve a notion of limit or finalization.

Tips for memorizing and using つまり correctly

An effective way to solidify the meaning of つまり is to associate it with everyday situations. When you hear or read the word in an explanatory context, think of phrases like "that is" or "in other words." In physical contexts, that it can describe something blocked, like a pipe or a congested street. Creating these mental associations makes learning easier.

Another valuable tip is to pay attention to the use of つまり in Japanese dramas or anime, where it frequently appears in dialogues. Observing how characters use the word in real situations helps internalize its different meanings. Over time, you will begin to naturally recognize when つまり is being used to summarize an idea or describe something blocked.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 詰まり (Tsumari) - Clogging, obstruction
• つまり (Tsumari) - In other words, that is to say,
• 閉塞 (Heisoku) - Obstruction, blockage (general)
• 阻害 (Sagai) - Impediment, inhibition (not allowing something to happen)
• 障害 (Shougai) - Impediment, obstacle (can refer to physical or mental difficulties)
• 妨害 (Bougai) - Interference, disturbance
• 混雑 (Konzatsu) - Congestion, crowding (general, like in traffic)
• 渋滞 (Juutai) - Congestion, blockage (specifically for traffic)
• 悩み (Nayami) - Worry, anguish
• 困り (Komari) - Difficulty, various issues
• 窮地 (Kyuuchi) - Desperate situation, extremity
• 苦境 (Kukyou) - Difficult situation, adversity
• 難局 (Nankyoku) - Difficult situation, crisis
• 難題 (Nandai) - Difficult problem, challenge
• 問題 (Mondai) - Problem, question to be solved
• 疑問 (Gimai) - Doubt, questioning
• 病気 (Byouki) - Disease, illness
• 病状 (Byoujou) - Disease condition, health status
• 症状 (Shoujou) - Symptom, manifestation of a disease
• 症候 (Shoukou) - Symptom, physical sign of a disease
• 病態 (Byoutai) - Clinical picture, state of the disease
• 疾患 (Shikkan) - Disease, illness (general)
• 疾病 (Shippai) - Disease (more formal or technical term)
• 病弱 (Byoujaku) - Sick person, with weakened health
• 病弊 (Bouhei) - Sick, chronic illness
• 病魔 (Byouma) - Disease demon, a reference to serious illnesses.
• 病苦 (Byouku) - Suffering caused by diseases
• 病根 (Byoukon) - Root of the disease, underlying causes
• 病原 (Byougen) - Pathogen, agent causing diseases
• 病原体 (Byougentai) - Pathogenic agent, organism that causes diseases
• 病原菌 (Byougenkin) - Pathogenic bacteria, microorganisms that cause diseases
• 病原微生物 (Byougenbiseibutsu) - Pathogenic microorganisms, microorganisms related to diseases
• 病原細菌 (Byougensaikin) - Specific pathogenic bacteria that cause diseases