Translation and Meaning of: 送る - okuru

The Japanese word 送る (おくる, okuru) is an essential verb for anyone learning the language. Its main meaning is "to send" or "to give," but its use goes beyond the literal sense, encoming emotional and cultural contexts. In this article, we will explore everything from the writing of the kanji to practical examples of how this word appears in Japanese everyday life. If you want to understand how to use it correctly or discover curiosities about its origin, keep reading!

Meaning and use of 送る

"送る" is a common verb in Japanese, often used for actions such as sending a letter (手紙を送る), sending an email (メールを送る), or even dispatching a package. However, it also appears in more subtle situations, such as "sending someone home" (家まで送る) or "accompanying a person part of the way." This versatility makes it a useful word in various conversations.

It is worth noting that, in emotional contexts, 送る can take on deeper nuances. For example, it is used in funeral ceremonies to express the act of "saying goodbye" to someone who has left. This cultural layer shows how the Japanese language connects everyday actions to feelings and traditions.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 送る is composed of two elements: the radical 辶 (which indicates movement) and the component 关 (which suggests the idea of “ing” or “transferring”). Together, they reinforce the sense of “sending” or “making something go forward.” This combination is not random—it reflects the logic behind many kanjis, where radicals and components come together to create precise meanings.

According to the Kangorin dictionary, one of the most respected in the study of kanji, 送る has ancient origins in Chinese writing, later adapted by Japanese. The pronunciation "okuru" is unique to Japan, while in China the same character is read differently. This difference is common in many kanji, which have evolved distinctly in each culture.

Tips for memorizing and using 送る

An effective way to 送る is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of actions like "sending a message" or "dispatching a gift"—these are direct uses that help to memorize the word. Another tip is to create simple sentences, like "友達にプレゼントを送る" (send a gift to a friend), that mix basic vocabulary with the verb.

For those who use apps like Anki, including 送る on cards with everyday examples can speed up learning. A useful fact: this verb frequently appears in dramas and animes, especially in scenes involving farewells or long-distance communication. Paying attention to these contexts helps to better understand its nuances.

The concept of "送る" in Japanese culture

In Japan, 送る (okuru) is not limited to sending objects. In festivals like Obon, families use lanterns to "send" the spirits of their ancestors back to their world—a tradition called 灯籠流し (tōrō nagashi). This type of use shows how the word is connected to important rituals in Japanese society.

Furthermore, in companies, it is common to hear expressions like "書類を送ってください" (please send the documents), highlighting its presence in the professional environment. This variety of applications makes 送る an essential term for anyone wanting to master Japanese at different levels, from casual to formal.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 送る

• 送る - dictionary form
• 送ります - polite form
• 送らない - negative form
• 送った - past form
• 送れる - potential form

Synonyms and similar words

• 送信する (sōshin suru) - Send (usually related to messages or information)
• 送り出す (okuri dasu) - Send; dispatch (out)
• 送る (okuru) - Send; to send (general)
• 送付する (sōfu suru) - Send (documents or objects, formal)
• 送り返す (okuri kaesu) - Return; send back
• 送り届ける (okuri tokeru) - Deliver (to someone, focusing on the delivery)
• 送り込む (okuri komu) - Send inside (to a specific place)
• 送り出し (okuri dashi) - Dispatch; act of sending (noun form of the verb)
• 送り手 (okuri te) - Sender; who sends
• 送り主 (okuri nushi) - Sender; owner of the shipment (focusing on possession)