Translation and Meaning of: 球 - kyuu

The Japanese word 球[きゅう] is a fascinating term that appears in various contexts, from sports to astronomy. If you are learning Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding its meaning, origin, and usage can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is written, and in which situations Japanese people use it in their daily lives.

In addition, we will see how the kanji 球 relates to other common and expressions in Japan. Whether for those studying the language or for those seeking accurate information about the Japanese language, this content will help clarify doubts and provide valuable insights. Shall we begin?

Meaning and usage of 球[きゅう]

The term 球[きゅう] literally means "ball" or "sphere" in Japanese. It is used to describe round objects, such as sports balls, globes, and even celestial bodies. For example, in words like 野球[やきゅう] (baseball) and 地球[ちきゅう] (Earth), the kanji 球 appears to indicate something spherical.

In everyday life, this word is not limited to physical objects. It can also be used in scientific and technical contexts, such as 眼球[がんきゅう] (eyeball) or 電球[でんきゅう] (light bulb). This versatility makes 球 a very useful kanji for those who are learning Japanese.

Origin and writing of the kanji 球

The kanji 球 is composed of the radical 王 (rei, jade) and the component 求 (to seek, to request). Its origin dates back to ancient Chinese, where it represented precious round objects, such as pearls or jewels. Over time, its meaning expanded to include any spherical object.

In Japanese writing, 球 is considered a medium-level kanji, commonly learned in elementary school. Its most common reading is きゅう (kyū), but it can also be read as たま (tama) in some words, such as 玉[たま] (ball, sphere). This variation in reading is important for those who want to master the language.

Curiosities and cultural uses of 球

In Japan, the kanji 球 appears in various aspects of culture, especially in sports. Baseball, for example, is called 野球[やきゅう] and is one of the most popular sports in the country. Additionally, like 蹴球[しゅうきゅう] (soccer) and 籠球[ろうきゅう] (basketball) also use this kanji.

Another interesting fact is that 球 is used in the names of planets and stars, such as 火星[かせい] (Mars) and 金星[きんせい] (Venus). This connection with astronomy reinforces the idea of sphericity and movement, something that is present in both the language and Japanese culture.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ボール (bōru) - ball, often referring to sports or toy balls.
• 玉 (tama) - sphere or jewel; it can refer to a game sphere or a precious ball.
• 丸 (maru) - round shape; used to describe an object with a spherical shape.
• 球体 (kyūtai) - spherical body, technical term for a three-dimensional object in the shape of a sphere.
• 球状 (kyūjō) - in the form of a sphere; used to describe the shape of an object.
• 球形 (kyūkei) - spherical shape; describes the characteristic of an object that has the shape of a sphere.
• 球面 (kyūmen) - spherical surface; refers to the external surface of a sphere.