Translation and Meaning of: 傷 - kizu

The Japanese word 傷[きず] is a term that carries deep meanings both in the language and in Japanese culture. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding the use and origin of this word can enrich your knowledge. In this article, we will explore its meaning, how it is written and used in everyday life, along with curiosities that may help with memorization.

Kizu [傷] is often associated with physical and emotional concepts, making it a versatile and relevant word in different contexts. Whether in everyday conversations or in deeper expressions, knowing its usage can be helpful for those who wish to communicate more naturally in Japanese. Here at Suki Nihongo, we strive to provide accurate and practical information for your learning.

Meaning and use of 傷[きず]

The term 傷[きず] can be translated as "wound," "injury," or "scar," depending on the context. It is used to describe both physical injuries, such as cuts and bruises, and emotional wounds, such as traumas or hurts. This duality allows the word to appear in various situations, from everyday conversations to literary works and songs.

In phrases like 心の傷[こころのきず] (emotional wound) or 傷を負う[きずをおう] (to suffer an injury), it becomes clear how the term can be applied in both abstract and concrete ways. This flexibility is one of the reasons why 傷[きず] is so prevalent in the Japanese vocabulary, making it a word worth learning early on.

Origin and writing of the kanji 傷

The kanji 傷 consists of the radical 亻(on the left, indicating "person") and the component 昜(on the right, related to "hurt" or "damage"). This combination suggests a direct connection with the idea of something or someone that has been affected physically or emotionally. The etymology reinforces the dual meaning of the word, encoming both the physical and psychological aspects.

It is worth noting that 傷 is not one of the simpler kanji, but its structure can be memorized by associating its components with ideas like "person" and "damage." Japanese students often encounter it in medical texts, discussions about mental health, and even in song lyrics, which makes its recognition easier over time.

Trivia and tips for memorization

An effective way to the meaning of 傷[きず] is to associate it with common situations where it appears. For example, in Japanese animes and dramas, characters often use this word to express emotional pain or the consequences of past events. This natural exposure helps to reinforce the term in memory.

In addition, an interesting curiosity is that 傷[きず] can also be used in expressions like 傷物[きずもの], which refers to damaged products or those with small defects. This lesser-known usage shows how the word is rooted in different aspects of life in Japan, from the emotional to the commercial.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 傷痕 (kizukizu) - Mark of a wound or visible scar.
• 傷跡 (kizuato) - Scar or trace left by an injury.
• 傷口 (kizuguchi) - Opening or wound somewhere on the body.
• 傷害 (shougai) - Injury or damage, generally used in legal contexts.
• 傷付ける (kizutsukeru) - Cause an injury, hurt someone emotionally or physically.
• 傷つける (kizutsukeru) - Similar to "傷付ける", usually emphasizing emotional damage.
• 傷つく (kizutsuku) - If hurt or suffer emotionally.
• 傷心 (shoushin) - State of mind of wounds or emotional suffering.
• 傷感情 (kizaikanjou) - Feelings of pain or emotional injury.
• 傷感的 (kizukanteki) - The word refers to something that has a quality of wounded feeling.
• 傷感覚 (kizukankaku) - A sensitivity or perception of emotional wounds.
• 傷感性 (kizukansei) - Ability to feel emotional wounds deeply.
• 傷感漂う雰囲気 (kizukanyoufuuniki) - The atmosphere that exudes a sense of pain or wound.
• 傷感的な雰囲気 (kizukantekinafuniki) - An atmosphere that is touching or nostalgic, reflecting pain.
• 傷感的な空気 (kizukantekina kuuki) - Feeling of a melancholic or painful environment.