Translation and Meaning of: 逃がす - nigasu

If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, you may have come across the word 逃がす (にがす, nigasu). It appears in various contexts, from everyday conversations to music and anime. But what exactly does it mean? How is it used in daily life? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this word, along with tips to memorize it effectively. If you want to understand how the Japanese use 逃がす in different situations, keep reading!

Meaning and translation of 逃がす

逃がす (にがす, nigasu) is a Japanese verb that means "to let escape," "to release," or "to lose something or someone." It is often used in situations where someone allows something or someone to free themselves from control or capture. For example, if a fish escapes from the hook, a Japanese person might say: 魚を逃がした (さかなをにがした, sakana o nigashita), which means "I let the fish escape."

It is worth noting that 逃がす carries a tone of regret or frustration, as it implies that the person intended to retain something but failed. This emotional nuance is important for understanding its correct use. In literal translations into Portuguese, it can be confused with other verbs like "liberar," but its meaning is more related to the idea of losing something that was almost under control.

Origin and writing in kanji

The word 逃がす is composed of the kanji 逃 (にげる, nigeru), which means "to flee" or "to escape," and the verbal suffix がす (gasu), which indicates action. The kanji 逃, in turn, is formed by the radicals ⻍ (movement) and 兆 (omen), suggesting the idea of "movement to avoid something." This composition reinforces the sense of loss or involuntary release present in the verb.

It is interesting to note that 逃がす (にがす, nigasu) is a transitive form, meaning it requires a direct object. This means that it always acts upon something or someone, unlike its intransitive equivalent, 逃げる (にげる, nigeru), which means "to escape" and does not need an object. This distinction is crucial for using the word correctly in sentences.

Cultural use and frequency in Japanese

逃がす is a relatively common word in everyday Japanese, appearing in contexts ranging from fishing to relationships. In popular culture, it is often used in song lyrics and anime dialogues to convey feelings of loss or missed opportunities. For example, in dramatic narratives, a character might say: チャンスを逃がした (チャンスをにがした, chansu o nigashita), or "I let the chance slip away."

In the social context, the verb also reflects Japanese values, such as the importance of not wasting opportunities. This cultural connection makes 逃がす more than just a linguistic term – it carries an emotional weight that resonates with the Japanese mentality of perseverance and care in actions. Its frequent use in proverbs and popular expressions further reinforces its relevance in the language.

Tips for memorizing 逃がす

An effective way to 逃がす is to associate it with concrete situations. Imagine a scene where someone tries to hold onto a balloon, but it slips away – this image helps to recall the meaning of "to let escape." Another strategy is to create flashcards with practical sentences, such as 鳥を逃がさないで (とりをにがさないで, tori o nigasanai de), which means "Don't let the bird escape."

Furthermore, paying attention to the kanji 逃 can facilitate learning. As it appears in other related words, such as 逃走 (とうそう, tousou – escape) and 逃れる (のがれる, nogareru – to escape), recognizing it in different contexts strengthens memorization. Repeating the verb aloud and using it in your own sentences also consolidates its meaning and application.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 逃がす

• 逃がす - Present form: 逃がします 逃がしま す - Politeness
• 逃がす - Past form: 逃がしました 逃がしました - Politeness
• 逃がす - Imperative form: 逃がせ 逃がせ - Order
• 逃がす - Potential form: 逃がせる 逃がせる - Possibility
• 逃がす - Conditional form: 逃がせば 逃がせば - Conditional

Synonyms and similar words

• 逃す (nigasu) - Let slip, miss the opportunity
• 逃れる (nigareru) - Escape, avoid, avoid being caught
• 逃げる (nigeru) - Flee, run away
• 逃げ出す (nige dasu) - Run away, escape from a place, run out
• 逃亡する (toubou suru) - To flee, to escape, in the context of being a fugitive.