Translation and Meaning of: 点 - ten

The Japanese word 点[てん] is a versatile term that is present in everyday life in Japan, with meanings ranging from "point" to "grade" or "mark." If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding how this word is used can open doors to more natural communication. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical applications, along with tips to memorize it easily.

The kanji 点 is composed of elements that refer to the idea of marking or a small detail, and its use appears in contexts as diverse as education, sports, and even arts. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and precise explanations for those who want to truly master Japanese. Let's dive into the details of this word and discover how it fits into the culture and everyday life of the Japanese.

Meaning and uses of the word 点

The term 点 can be translated as "point," but its meaning goes beyond that. In school, for example, students receive 点 as grades on tests. In the sports world, especially in competitions like judo or basketball, it represents the score marked. In more technical contexts, it can indicate a specific detail in a drawing or graph.

Another interesting use is in expressions like 点を打つ (to score a point) or 点が付く (to gain points). These constructions show how the word is rooted in everyday language. It's worth noting that, although it has multiple meanings, the context usually makes it clear which one is being used.

Origin and writing of the kanji 点

The kanji 点 is formed by the radical 灬 (fire) at the bottom, combined with the component 占 (to predict). This structure suggests the idea of something marked or highlighted, like a flame that illuminates a detail. Sources like Kanjipedia confirm that its use dates back to ancient Chinese, where it also represented small marks or signs.

In modern writing, 点 appears in words like 点数 (score) and 点線 (dotted line). The pronunciation てん is the most common, but in some compounds it can vary, such as in 焦点 (しょうてん, focus). For those learning, a tip is to associate the fire radical with the idea of "highlighting" something, which helps to reinforce the meaning.

Trivia and memorization tips

An interesting fact is that 点 is often used in Japanese proverbs. For example, the expression 点を取る (to score points) can be applied metaphorically to situations where someone stands out. Moreover, in manga and anime, it's common to see characters discussing their 点数 (scores) in exams, reinforcing its use in everyday school life.

To memorize this word, an effective strategy is to create flashcards with practical examples, such as "テストで良い点を取った" (I got a good grade on the exam). Associating the kanji with real-life situations, such as game scores or exam corrections, also makes it easier to retain. The important thing is to practice in varied contexts to absorb all its meanings.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 点 (ten) - Score
• 点数 (ten-sū) - Punctuation
• 位置 (ichi) - Position
• 点滅 (tenmetsu) - Blinking
• 点火 (tenka) - Ignition
• 点検 (tenken) - Inspection
• 点字 (tenji) - Braille writing
• 点描 (tenpyō) - Dotted drawing
• 点灯 (tentō) - lighting
• 点在 (tenzai) - Point located
• 点群 (tengun) - Point group
• 点滴 (tenteki) - Dripping