Translation and Meaning of: 追い掛ける - oikakeru

If you are learning Japanese, you must have come across the verb 追い掛ける (おいかける, oikakeru). This word appears in everyday situations, songs, and even dialogues in anime, but do you know exactly how to use it? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts in which 追い掛ける is most commonly used. Additionally, you will discover practical tips to memorize this term and understand why it is so relevant in the Japanese language. Whether for study or curiosity, Suki Nihongo has prepared a comprehensive guide for you to master this verb.

Meaning and usage of 追い掛ける

追い掛ける is a Japanese verb that means "to chase," "to run after," or "to follow someone or something in motion." It is composed of the kanji 追 (oi, to pursue) and 掛 (kakeru, to hang, to apply), forming an idea of continuous action. Unlike simply "to follow," this verb carries a more active sense, as if there is an effort to reach something or someone.

In everyday life, 追い掛ける can be used both literally — as in "the dog chases the cat" (犬が猫を追い掛ける) — and metaphorically, as in "chasing a dream" (夢を追い掛ける). This flexibility makes the word quite versatile and common in daily conversations.

Origin and structure of kanji

The etymology of 追い掛ける traces back to the kanjis that compose it. The character 追 (oi) comes from ancient Chinese and represents the idea of pursuit, while 掛ける (kakeru) has a meaning of "to apply" or "to put into action." Together, they form a verb that indicates an active and ongoing pursuit.

It is worth noting that 追い掛ける is a group 1 (godan) verb, which means its conjugation follows a specific pattern. For example, in the negative form, it becomes 追い掛けない (oikakenai), and in the past, it is 追い掛けた (oikaketa). Knowing this helps in forming sentences correctly, avoiding common mistakes among students.

Tips for memorizing 追い掛ける

An effective way to memorize 追い掛ける is to associate it with visual situations. Imagine a chase scene, like in movies or animes, where someone is running after another person. This vivid image helps to not only the meaning but also the energetic tone of the word.

Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "警察が泥棒を追い掛ける" (The police chase the thief). Repeating it out loud and writing it several times also reinforces memorization. If you use apps like Anki, creating cards with real examples can be a great strategy.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 追い掛ける

• 追い掛ける - dictionary form
• 追い掛けます - polite form
• 追い掛けた - past
• 追い掛けて Gerund form

Synonyms and similar words

• 追う (Ou) - to chase
• 追跡する (Tsuiseki suru) - Fazer uma perseguição
• 追いかける (Oikakeru) - Pursue (with the intention of reaching)
• 追いつく (Oitsuku) - Catch up (the one being chased)
• 追い回す (Oimawasu) - Perseguir continuamente, atormentar
• 追いかけ回す (Oikake mawasu) - Chasing back and forth
• 追いかけ続ける (Oikake tsuzukeru) - Continuar perseguindo
• 追い立てる (Oitateru) - Forcing someone to run or move quickly
• 追いつめる (Oitsumeru) - Put someone in a no-win situation (hunt down until cornered)
• 追い込む (Oikomu) - Push to a specific position or situation
• 追い詰める (Oitsumeru) - Forcing someone into a critical situation (similar to 'cornering')
• 追いかけっこする (Oikakekko suru) - Brincar de pega