Translation and Meaning of: 話し掛ける - hanashikakeru

The term 「話し掛ける」 (hanashikakeru) is a Japanese verb that combines two distinct actions: 「話す」 (hanasu), which means "to speak", and 「掛ける」 (kakeru), which among other uses, can mean "to hang" or "to apply". When combined, they form an expression that means "to address someone" or "to start a conversation". The structure of the verb suggests the idea of a movement toward the listener, like "hanging" words to initiate an exchange of information.

The etymology of 「話し掛ける」 is rooted in the kanji that compose the word. 「話」, which denotes speech or conversation, uses the radical 「言」that means "word" or "speech", and 「口」 which represents "mouth". The kanji 「掛」 is a bit more complex, encoming multiple meanings ranging from "to hang" to "to connect", and its use in this context conveys the idea of "engaging someone in conversation". This construction reflects well the dynamic of initiating dialogue, emphasizing the active intent of the speaker.

In Japanese culture, starting a conversation, or 「話し掛ける」, can be a subtle art that involves not only words but also careful observation of social etiquette. The act of addressing someone in Japan often takes into the context, the relationship between the speakers, and the environment, ensuring that communication is appropriate and respectful. Thus, 「話し掛ける」 is not merely linguistic, but also cultural, where understanding the right moment and manner to do so is crucial.

In daily use, the verb is quite common and can be found in various social situations, from informal settings with friends to more formal contexts in work environments. The ability to 「話し掛ける」 appropriately is essential for building and maintaining relationships, highlighting the importance of effective communication in Japanese society. Therefore, this expression not only encapsulates an action but also reflects the significance of social and cultural aspects in verbal communication in Japan.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 話し掛ける

• 話し掛けます - polite form
• 話し掛ける - Casual form
• 話し掛けた - past
• 話し掛けません - negative
• 話し掛けませんでした - negative in the past

Synonyms and similar words

• 話しかける (hanashikakeru) - Talk to someone, start a conversation.
• 口説き掛ける (kudoku kakeru) - Start a conversation with the intention of seducing or winning over.
• 懇願する (kongan suru) - To ask insistently or to beg.
• 言い寄る (iiyoru) - To try to get close to someone, usually in a romantic way.
• 話を振る (hanashi o furu) - Introduce a topic in a conversation.
• 口説く (kudoku) - To seduce someone, usually in a romantic context.
• 説得する (settoku suru) - Convincing someone to do something or to accept an idea.
• 言い聞かせる (iihikaseru) - Persuade someone to the point of making them understand and accept the idea.
• 言い含める (iikume ru) - Explain carefully with the intention of making someone understand.
• 言いくるめる (iikurumekiru) - Convince through vigorous argumentation.