Translation and Meaning of: 取る - toru

The Japanese word 取る [とる] is an essential verb in the vocabulary of the language, with meanings ranging from "to take" to "to acquire" or "to remove". Its use is so versatile that it appears in various everyday situations, from informal conversations to more formal contexts. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and cultural uses of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you are studying Japanese or simply have curiosity about the language, understanding 取る can be a significant step.

Meaning and uses of 取る

The verb 取る has a wide range of meanings and can be translated as "to take," "to grab," "to capture," or even "to remove." Its flexibility allows it to be used in different contexts, such as 写真を取る (taking a photo) or メモを取る (writing something down). This variety of meanings makes it one of the most useful words for those learning Japanese.

Furthermore, 取る appears in idiomatic expressions and common phrases, such as 時間を取る (to reserve time) or 責任を取る (to take responsibility). Its frequent use in the daily lives of Japanese people reinforces its importance in the language. Mastering this verb can greatly facilitate the understanding of dialogues and texts in Japanese.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 取 is composed of the radicals 耳 (ear) and 又 (hand), suggesting the idea of "to take with the hands". This combination reflects well the original meaning of the verb, which is related to physical actions of grabbing or holding. The etymology helps to understand why 取る is used in contexts involving the obtaining or removal of something.

It is worth noting that 取る can also be written only in hiragana (とる), especially in informal contexts or when the kanji is not essential for understanding. However, knowing its kanji form is important for reading more formal or technical texts, where ideographic writing is predominant.

Tips for memorizing and using 取る

An effective way to memorize 取る is to associate it with everyday situations, such as "taking an object" or "taking a photo." Repeating phrases like 鍵を取る (take the key) or 休憩を取る (take a break) helps to solidify the verb in memory. Another strategy is to create flashcards with practical examples, reinforcing its use in different contexts.

Additionally, paying attention to dialogues in animes, dramas, or Japanese films can help you identify how natives use 取る in their daily lives. Often, the verb appears in unexpected situations, further expanding its range of meanings. The more exposure you have to real Japanese, the more natural the use of this word will be.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 取る

• 取る - dictionary form
• 取ります - Polite form
• 取った - past form
• 取れる - potential form
• 取りたい - Desired shape

Synonyms and similar words

• 捕る (toru) - capture, take (usually used for animals or objects)
• 採る (toru) - collect, select (usually used for natural resources or samples)
• 拾う (hirou) - pick up, gather (usually used for objects that are on the ground)
• 収める (osameru) - store, obtain (refers to putting something in a place, like money)
• 撮る (toru) - to photograph, to film (usually used in contexts of imagery)
• 取り上げる (toriageru) - raise, take back (usually in a context of discussion or priority)
• 取り込む (torikomu) - incorporate, accept (usually used to incorporate information or people)
• 取り扱う (toriatsukau) - manipulate, handle (to use items or people in a specific way)
• 取り戻す (torimodosu) - recover (usually used for lost objects or states)
• 取り消す (torikesu) - cancel (generally used in contexts of promises or orders)
• 取り引きする (torihiki suru) - negotiate (involves the exchange of goods or services)
• 取り立てる (toritateru) - charge (usually used for debts)
• 取り巻く (torimaku) - to encircle, to wrap around (usually used to describe something that surrounds)
• 取り次ぐ (toritsugu) - transmit, intermediate (usually used for messages or information)
• 取り替える (tori kaeru) - replace (usually refers to swapping one item for another)
• 取り決める (torikimeru) - decide, agree (usually used in contexts of agreement)
• 取り囲む (torikakomu) - surround (usually used to describe a situation of targets or people around)
• 取り組む (torikumu) - to work together, to strive (typically used for projects or social issues)
• 取り調べる (torishiraberu) - investigate (usually used in a police context)
• 取り出す (toridasu) - extract, take out (usually used to get something that was stored)
• 取り寄せる (toriyoseru) - order, request (commonly used for items that are not available locally)
• 取り付ける (toritsukeru) - install (usually used for devices or accessories)
• 取り払う (toriharau) - remove, clear (usually used for unwanted items)
• 取り換える (torikaeru) - exchange (usually used in contexts of replacing parts or items)
• 取り違える (tori chigaeru) - confuse, swap (usually used to describe mix-ups between items or people)