Translation and Meaning of: 通る - tooru

The Japanese word 通る [とおる] is an essential verb for anyone learning the language, especially due to its frequent use in daily life. Its main meaning involves the idea of "ing through" something, either physically or metaphorically, and it appears in various contexts, from practical situations to more abstract expressions. In this article, we will explore what makes this word so relevant, how to use it correctly, and some curiosities about its origin and application.

Understanding 通る goes beyond simple translation, as it carries important nuances in Japanese communication. Whether to describe the act of crossing a street or to indicate that an argument has been understood, this verb has a significant presence in the language. Here, you will find clear explanations and practical examples to master its use, as well as tips to memorize it easily.

Meaning and use of 通る

The verb 通る has the most common translation of "to through" or "to traverse," but its meaning can vary depending on the context. When used to describe physical movement, it indicates that someone or something is crossing a space, as in "道を通る" (to through the street). In more abstract situations, it can mean that an idea has been accepted or understood, as in "意見が通る" (the opinion is accepted).

Another interesting use of 通る appears in everyday expressions, such as "電話が通る" (the call goes through/connects), demonstrating its versatility. This variety of applications makes it a valuable word for those who want to communicate naturally in Japanese. It's worth paying attention to how natives use it, as small nuances can completely change the meaning of a sentence.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 通 (tsū) is composed of the radical 辶 (which indicates movement) combined with 甬 (which reinforces the idea of age). This combination is not arbitrary: it perfectly reflects the meaning of the word, as it suggests something or someone moving along a path. The reading とおる (tōru) is one of the most common for this character, but it can also be read as つう (tsū) in compounds like 通行 (tsūkō - traffic).

Interestingly, this same kanji appears in words like 通訳 (tsūyaku - interpreter) and 通勤 (tsūkin - commute), always maintaining the notion of connection or age. Studying its composition helps to better understand not only 通る but also other derived . For those looking to memorize it, focusing on the radical of movement can be an effective strategy.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

A practical way to fixate on 通る is to associate it with everyday situations. For example, think about how you " through" places frequently: when crossing a bridge, walking down a hallway, or even when a bus follows its route. Creating simple sentences like "このバスは駅を通ります" (This bus es by the station) helps to internalize the verb naturally.

Another useful tip is to pay attention to how 通る differs from similar verbs, such as 渡る (wataru - to cross, used more for specific rivers or streets). While 通る has a more general sense of age, 渡る implies a specific crossing. Observing these differences helps avoid common mistakes and enhances fluency. Over time, correct usage becomes intuitive, especially when practiced in real contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 通る

• 通る - base form dictionary form
• 通ります - affirmative form in the present tense
• 通った - affirmative form in the past
• 通りません - negative form in the present
• 通らなかった - negative form in the past

Synonyms and similar words

• 通じる (Tōjirru) - To be understood, to communicate.
• 進む (Susumu) - Advance, progress.
• 進行する (Shinkō suru) - Progress, advance in a process.
• 進める (Susumeru) - Promote, continue.
• 進歩する (Shinpō suru) - Make progress, evolve.
• 進展する (Shinten suru) - Develop, make progress in a situation.
• 通過する (Tōka suru) - through a place.
• 通り過ぎる (Tōrisugiru) - through (without stopping), exceed a place.
• 通り抜ける (Tōrinukeru) - Cross from one side to the other.
• 通り越す (Tōrikosu) - Go beyond a point; go further.
• 通り過す (Tōrisu) - by (without stopping), similar to 通り過ぎる.
• 通り過ごす (Tōrisugosu) - Let it go unnoticed, let it .
• 通り過ぎ去る (Tōrisugisaru) - To leave while ing; to move in a way that displaces.
• 通り過ごし (Tōrisugoshi) - The act of ing by unnoticed or without stopping.
• 通り過ぎていく (Tōrisugiteiku) - Keep going; gradually.
• 通り過ぎていった (Tōrisugiteitta) - ed through (in the past); ed without stopping.
• 通り過ぎていた (Tōrisugiteita) - Was ing (in the past); continuous action of ing.
• 通り過ぎた (Tōrisugita) - The act of having ed, completed.
• 通り過ぎた後 (Tōrisugita ato) - After ing; referring to what happened after ing.
• 通り過ぎた後に (Tōrisugita ato ni) - After ing; indicating a time or event that occurs after ing.
• 通り過ぎた後で (Tōrisugita ato de) - After it has ed; emphasizing what happens afterwards.