Translation and Meaning of: 選ぶ - erabu

If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, you may have come across the word 選ぶ (えらぶ, erabu). It is a common verb in the daily life of Japanese people and has a very useful meaning: "to choose" or "to select." In this article, we will explore everything from the basics, such as its writing and translation, to deeper aspects like its origin and cultural usage. If you really want to learn, keep reading — Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, has gathered everything you need to know about this word.

The meaning and writing of 選ぶ

The verb 選ぶ (erabu) is used when someone needs to make a choice between different options. It can be applied in everyday situations, such as selecting a product in the supermarket, or in more formal contexts, such as electing a representative. The kanji writing is composed of 選 (sen), which carries the idea of selection, and ぶ (bu), a common verbal suffix.

It's worth noting that 選ぶ is not an irregular verb, which makes its conjugation easier. For example, in the past tense, it becomes 選んだ (eranda), following the pattern of Class 1 (godan) verbs. If you are starting to learn Japanese, this regularity can be a great advantage when it comes to memorization.

The origin and etymology of 選ぶ

The word 選ぶ has ancient roots in the Japanese language. The kanji 選 (sen) is derived from classical Chinese and originally represented the idea of "to separate" or "to select." Over the centuries, this character has been incorporated into Japanese with a similar meaning, maintaining its essence of careful choice.

Interestingly, the radical of 選 is 辶 (the radical for walking), which appears in many kanjis related to movement or direction. This makes sense, as choosing something often implies "following a path" among various possibilities. This visual connection can be a helpful hint for those who want to memorize the kanji.

How 選ぶ is used in Japan

In everyday life, Japanese people use 選ぶ in situations that range from the simplest to the most decisive. For example, it is common to hear phrases like メニューから選ぶ (menyuu kara erabu), which means "choose from the menu". In formal contexts, such as politics or business, the verb also appears frequently, as in 代表を選ぶ (daihyou wo erabu), or "elect a representative".

Culturally, Japan values carefulness when making choices, and 選ぶ reflects that. Unlike more casual words like ピックする (pikku suru, from English "pick"), 選ぶ carries a more deliberate tone. Therefore, it is important to understand the context in which it is used to avoid sounding inappropriate.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 選ぶ

• 選ぶ - Positive form, present, affirmative
• 選びます - Positive form, present, formal
• 選んでいます - Positive form, present continuous
• 選びました - Positive form, past, affirmative
• 選んでいました - Positive form, past, continuous

Synonyms and similar words

• 選択する (sentaku suru) - Choose, make a selection between options.
• 選定する (sentei suru) - Select, especially in a formal context or after considering criteria.
• 選考する (senkō suru) - Examine and select, usually used in contexts such as selection for a job or competition.
• 選出する (senshutsu suru) - Elect or appoint a person to a specific position.
• 選抜する (senbatsu suru) - Select or choose from the best options, usually in a competitive context.
• 選任する (sen'nin suru) - To appoint or designate someone to a role or position.
• 選別する (senbetsu suru) - Separate or classify based on specific criteria.
• 選び取る (erabi toru) - Choose exactly or select carefully.
• 選び出す (erabi dasu) - Select or choose from a group, generally implying a more active approach.
• 選り取り見取りする (yoritori mitori suru) - Choose freely from a selection, usually referring to a wide range of options.
• 選ぶ (erabu) - Choose, a simpler and more direct way of selection.