Translation and Meaning of: 遣い - tsukai

The Japanese word 遣い [つかい] is a versatile term that appears in various contexts of the language. If you are studying Japanese or just have curiosity about the meaning and use of this expression, this article will explore its origin, applications, and cultural particularities. Additionally, we will understand how it is perceived in everyday Japanese life and how it can be used in common phrases.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 遣い is defined as a suffix that indicates "usage" or "manner of doing something," often combined with other words to form specific expressions. Studying it is useful not only to expand vocabulary but also to understand nuances of the Japanese language. Let's dive into the details of this word and discover how it fits into daily communication.

Meaning and usage of 遣い

遣い primarily functions as a suffix that attaches to nouns or verbs to indicate the manner in which something is used. For example, 言葉遣い [ことばづかい] means "use of words" or "language," while 金遣い [かねづかい] refers to "the way of spending money." This construction is common in expressions that describe habits or behaviors.

Additionally, 遣い can appear alone as a noun, meaning "messenger" or "person sent on a task." This usage is less common in modern Japanese but still appears in formal or historical contexts. The flexibility of the word makes it relevant in both everyday conversations and more elaborate texts.

Origin and Etymology

The kanji 遣 is composed of the radical 辶 (which indicates movement) combined with 肀 (related to writing or recording). This combination suggests the idea of "sending" or "doing something through an intermediary," which explains its dual meaning of "use" and "messenger." The reading つかい derives from the verb 遣う [つかう], which means "to use" or "to employ."

Historically, 遣い was more associated with official tasks or formal communications, such as in 使い走り [つかいばしり], an old term for "fast messenger." Over time, its meaning expanded to encom everyday actions, reflecting the natural evolution of the Japanese language. This change shows how the language adapts to new needs.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to reinforce 遣い is to associate it with common compound words. Expressions like 手遣い [てづかい] ("hand movement") or 人遣い [ひとづかい] ("treatment of people") help to understand its role as a suffix. Repeating these combinations in practical sentences also reinforces learning.

Another tip is to pay attention to the kanji 遣 in different contexts. Noticing its presence in words like 派遣 [はけん] ("dispatch of workers") creates mental connections that facilitate memorization. Over time, identifying usage patterns becomes more intuitive, especially in readings or conversations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 使い (tsukai) - Use, employment of something.
• 施し (hodokoshi) - Action of giving; charity.
• 出費 (shuppi) - Expenses; costs.
• 費やす (tsuiyasu) - Spend, consume time or resources.
• 手当て (teate) - Compensation; assistance.
• 用いる (mochiru) - Use; employ something.
• 行使する (koushi suru) - Execute; exercise (rights, power).
• 使役する (shieki suru) - Make someone use something; force the action.
• 送る (okuru) - Send, transmit something to someone.
• 派遣する (haken suru) - Delegate; send someone for a specific task.
• 動かす (ugokasu) - Move; make something move.
• 任せる (makaseru) - Delegate responsibility; trust something to someone.
• 使命 (shimei) - Mission; imposed obligation.
• 使途 (shito) - Use; specific purpose of something.
• 用途 (youto) - Purpose; use of an object.
• 用意 (youi) - Preparation; arrangements made.
• 用法 (youhou) - Usage method; instructions.
• 用向き (youmuki) - Directions for use; appropriate applications.
• 用具 (yougu) - Tools; used utensils.
• 用品 (youhin) - Supplies; practical use items.
• 用意する (youi suru) - Prepare; make the necessary arrangements.
• 用い方 (mochikata) - How to use; usage technique.
• 用い途 (mochidō) - Purpose of use; the aim of something.
• 用い物 (mochibutsu) - Objects used; items with purpose.
• 用い分ける (mochiwakaru) - Distinguish uses; select the appropriate use.
• 用い手 (mochite) - ; someone who uses something.
• 用い方を知る (mochikata o shiru) - Know how to use it; understand the instructions for use.
• 用いること (mochiru koto) - Acts of using; the act of utilizing.
• 用いるために (mochiru tame ni) - For use; with the aim of employing.
• 用いる道具 (mochiru dougu) - Tools for use; employable utensils.
• 用いる場合 (mochiru baai) - Cases in which it is used; usage situations.
• 用いる方法 (mochiru houhou) - Usage methods; application techniques.
• 用いる意味 (mochiru imi) - Meaning of use; interpretation of what is used.
• 用いる目的 (mochiru mokuteki) - Purpose of use; goals when employing something.
• 用いる能力 (mochiru nouryoku) - Ability to use; capacity to properly employ.