Translation and Meaning of: 酌む - kumu

If you are learning Japanese or have an interest in the language, you may have come across the word 酌む [くむ]. It may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances that are worth exploring. In this article, we will dive into the meaning, cultural usage, and peculiarities of this expression, as well as understand how it fits into the daily lives of native speakers. Whether to enrich your vocabulary or to satisfy your linguistic curiosity, here you will find accurate and relevant information.

Meaning and usage of 酌む

酌む is a Japanese verb that means "to serve a drink," especially alcohol, in a social context. Unlike simply filling a glass, this action carries a tone of care and attention, often related to hospitality. Imagine a situation where someone serves sake at a gathering of friends or during a formal dinner – this gesture is described by 酌む.

It is important to emphasize that the term is not limited to everyday situations. In traditional ceremonies or important events, the act of 酌む can symbolize respect and harmony among people. Therefore, it is common to see this word in contexts that involve etiquette and social interaction in Japan.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 酌 is composed of the radical 酉 (which represents "alcohol" or "drink") combined with 勺 (an old measurement for liquids). This combination is not random – it directly reflects the meaning of the word, related to the idea of measuring or serving drinks. The presence of the radical 酉 makes clear the connection to the world of alcoholic beverages, something present in various other in Japanese.

Interestingly, 酌む is not an extremely common verb in modern daily life, but it frequently appears in specific contexts, such as in traditional restaurants or in narratives that depict Japanese customs. Its usage dates back centuries, reinforcing its connection with deeply rooted cultural practices.

Tips for memorizing and using 酌む

An effective way to 酌む is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of scenes from animes or dramas where characters are in izakayas (Japanese bars) or formal events – often, the act of serving drinks appears in these scenarios. This visual connection helps to retain not only the meaning but also the appropriate context for using the word.

Another tip is to practice with real examples. Phrases like "彼は上司に酒を酌んだ" (He served sake to the boss) illustrate the use of the verb well. Notice how the action goes beyond the physical: there is an implicit load of hierarchy and courtesy. Observing these details makes all the difference for those who want to master Japanese naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 酌む

• 酌む - Dichotomous form
• 酌める - Probable form
• 酌めれる - potential form
• 酌めよう - Volitive form

Synonyms and similar words

• 飲む (nomu) - to drink
• 呑む (nomu) - drink (usually used for alcoholic beverages)
• 飲み込む (nomikomu) - To swallow
• 飲み干す (nomihosu) - drink it all (to the end)
• 飲み込み (nomikomi) - swallowing action (emphasis on the process)
• 飲み込みます (nomikomi masu) - I will swallow (formal)
• 飲み込んで (nomikonde) - swallowing (continuous form)
• 飲み込んだ (nomikonda) - swallowed (past)
• 飲み込みましょう (nomikomi mashou) - let's swallow (suggestion)
• 飲み込むこと (nomikomu koto) - swallowing (noun)
• 飲み込むことができる (nomikomu koto ga dekiru) - to be able to swallow
• 飲み込める (nomikomeru) - can be swallowed
• 飲み込んでいる (nomikonde iru) - is swallowing (continuous form)
• 飲み込んでいた (nomikonde ita) - was swallowing
• 飲み込んでいます (nomikonde imasu) - I am swallowing.
• 飲み込んでいました (nomikonde imashita) - was swallowing
• 飲み込んでしまう (nomikonde shimau) - end up swallowing (unintentionally)
• 飲み込んでしまった (nomikonde shimatta) - I ended up swallowing (past, unintentional)
• 飲み込んでしまいます (nomikonde shimaimasu) - I will end up swallowing (formal, unintentional)