Translation and Meaning of: 絨毯 - jyuutan

If you are learning Japanese or simply curious about the language, you may have come across the word 絨毯 (じゅうたん). It is common in everyday vocabulary and appears in various contexts, from descriptions of environments to scenes in animes and dramas. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used by Japanese people in their daily lives. Additionally, we will look at tips for memorizing this term and some interesting facts that make your learning process more engaging.

"絨毯" is one of those words that, although simple, carries cultural and historical nuances. If you have ever searched for "what does じゅうたん mean" or "how to say carpet in Japanese," you've come to the right place. Here at Suki Nihongo, our dictionary provides detailed explanations for those who want to go beyond the basic translation. Let's uncover everything about this word, from its kanji writing to practical usage examples.

Meaning and origin of 絨毯

The word 絨毯 (じゅうたん) means "carpet." It is used to refer to thicker and softer carpets, typically those that cover the entire floor of a room. Unlike マット (mato), which are smaller or non-slip mats, じゅうたん has a connotation of something more luxurious and comfortable.

The origin of the term is interesting. It is believed that 絨毯 entered Japanese during the Edo period, when Persian carpets and other Oriental fabrics began to be imported to Japan. The kanji 絨 (jū, referring to thick fabrics) and 毯 (tan, meaning covering or blanket) were combined to describe this foreign object that did not exist in traditional Japanese culture.

Everyday and cultural use

In modern Japan, じゅうたん is a common item found in homes, offices, and even public spaces. However, its use differs slightly from the West. While in Brazil rugs are often used as decorative pieces, in Japan they serve a more practical function: keeping the environment warm in winter and creating a soft surface to sit on the floor, as many homes still maintain the practice of not using chairs.

Culturally, the Japanese have the custom of removing their shoes before stepping on a じゅうたん, following the same rule applied to tatami mats. This reflects the importance placed on cleanliness and the preservation of these items. In animes and dramas, it is common to see family scenes taking place on a じゅうたん, reinforcing its role as a space for domestic interaction.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to this word is to associate the sound "jūtan" with the idea of something soft and cozy. The "jū" can refer to "jūbun" (enough), as if the rug were "comfortable enough." The kanji 毯 appears in other words related to coverings, such as 毛毯 (mōfu, blanket), creating a useful mental connection.

A verified curiosity is that, according to the National Institute of the Japanese Language, じゅうたん is among the 5,000 most used words in the language. This means that you will frequently encounter it in study materials and real conversations. Another interesting fact is that, although Japan has its own types of traditional carpets, the word じゅうたん is primarily used for Western-style rugs, showing how the term has adapted to modern times.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• じゅうたん (juutan) - Rug, usually large in size, used for covering floors.
• カーペット (kaapetto) - Carpet, generally more used in modern and Western contexts, covers the entire floor of a room.
• 敷物 (shikimono) - Material to cover the floor, which can include both carpets and other types of flooring.