Translation and Meaning of: 険しい - kewashii

The Japanese word 険しい[けわしい] carries a rich and specific meaning that goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore its usage, origin, and how it is perceived in everyday Japan. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding like this can open doors to a deeper comprehension of the culture and communication in the language.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 険しい, we will address its writing in kanji, practical usage examples, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, is here to help you master this and many other words with confidence and precision.

Meaning and use of 険しい

The word 険しい describes something that is steep, rugged, or difficult to traverse, both in a physical and metaphorical sense. It can be used to talk about mountains, paths, or even challenging situations. For example, a dangerous ascent on a trail can be called 険しい道[けわしいみち].

In the emotional context, 険しい can also convey the idea of a severe or threatening facial expression. A stern and austere face can be described as 険しい顔[けわしいかお], showing how the word goes beyond its concrete meaning. This duality of meanings makes it quite versatile in everyday Japanese.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 険 is composed of the radical 阝, which is related to hills or elevations, combined with the component 僉, which suggests the idea of danger or difficulty. This combination perfectly reinforces the meaning of something steep and dangerous. The reading けわしい is one of the kun'yomi (Japanese readings) of this character.

It's worth noting that 険しい is not a rare word, but it is also not among the most commonly used in daily life. It appears more regularly in descriptions of landscapes, literary narratives, or when one wants to emphasize the degree of difficulty of something. In informal conversations, Japanese people may choose simpler depending on the context.

Tips for memorizing and using 険しい

An effective way to memorize 険しい is to associate it with vivid mental images. Think of a mountain so steep that it seems impossible to climb - that’s the essence of the word. Creating flashcards with phrases like 険しい岩山[けわしいいわやま] (steep rocky mountain) can help in the learning process.

Another valuable tip is to pay attention to the use of this word in animes, dramas, or documentaries about Japanese nature. Many productions that depict mountain expeditions or dramatic scenarios use 険しい to describe extreme challenges. This natural exposure to the term in real contexts facilitates its assimilation.