Translation and Meaning of: 気付く - kiduku

The Japanese word 気付く [きづく] is an essential verb for those learning the language, as it frequently appears in both everyday conversations and more formal texts. Its main meaning is "to notice" or "to perceive something," but its richness goes beyond simple translation. In this article, we will explore everything from the origin and components of the kanji to practical usage in different contexts, including tips for memorization and cultural curiosities. If you have used the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you know how important it is to understand words like this in depth.

Meaning and usage of 気付く

気付く is a verb that carries the idea of becoming aware of something, whether it's a physical detail, an emotion, or even a change in situation. Unlike words like 見つける (to find), it does not imply an active search but rather a spontaneous perception. For example, someone might 気付く that they forgot their keys at home only upon arriving at the car door.

In the Japanese language, this verb is frequently used in everyday situations and also in more subtle contexts, such as perceiving the feelings of others. This sensitivity is tied to Japanese culture, which values attention to detail and reading the environment. It's no wonder that 気付く appears in dialogues from anime, dramas, and even corporate manuals.

Kanji and structure of 気付く

The verb 気付く is composed of two kanji: 気 (ki), which represents "energy" or "mind," and 付く (tsuku), which means "to adhere" or "to attach." Together, they form the idea of something "sticking in the mind," reflecting the concept of perception well. It is interesting to note that the kanji 気 appears in various other words related to mental states, such as 気分 (kibun - mood) and 気持ち (kimochi - feeling).

A useful tip for memorizing 気付く is to associate the first kanji with the idea of "attention" and the second with the act of "noticing." This decomposition helps to understand why the word does not apply to active discoveries, but rather to perceptions that arise naturally. For Japanese students, noticing these details can make all the difference.

Cultural contexts and nuances

In Japan, the ability to 気付く is seen as an important social skill. Noticing changes in a colleague's mood or details in a shared environment demonstrates empathy and respect. This explains why the word is so common in professional and personal situations. In companies, for example, employees are encouraged to 気付く problems before they become significant.

Another interesting aspect is the use of 気付く in fixed expressions, such as 気付かれない (not being noticed) or 気付きにくい (hard to notice). These variations show how the verb adapts to different degrees of perception. For those studying Japanese, paying attention to these patterns helps to expand vocabulary in an organic way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 気付く

• 気付く - Infinitive form
• 気付かない - negative form
• 気付きます - Formal affirmative form
• 気付いた - past form
• 気付かせる - causative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 気がつく (ki ga tsuku) - To understand something, to notice something that was hidden.
• 気付く (ki ga tsuku) - Recognize or perceive; usually used in a more formal context.
• 気づく (ki ga zuku) - Similar to 気付く, but can be used in a more colloquial way.
• 気づかせる (ki o tsukaseru) - Make someone realize something; cause the perception in another person.
• 気づかい (kiduki) - Consideration or care for the feelings of others.
• 気づかわしい (kidukawashii) - Referring to being worried or having consideration for others; the state of being attentive.
• 気づかわす (kidukawasuru) - Make someone care or have consideration for another person's feelings.
• 気づき (kiduki) - Consciousness or awareness of something; the act of perceiving.
• 気づかいのある (kidukai no aru) - To have consideration or care for others.
• 気づかい深い (kidukai fukai) - To be deeply attentive or aware of the needs of others.
• 気づかいがいい (kidukai ga ii) - It's good to be considerate of others' feelings.
• 気づかいのいい (kidukai no ii) - Similar to 気づかいがいい, emphasizing a good quality of consideration.
• 気づかいの良い (kidukai no yoi) - Good consideration for the feelings of others.
• 気づかいの素晴らしい (kidukai no subarashii) - Excellent consideration and attention to others.