Translation and Meaning of: 続ける - tsudukeru

The Japanese word 続ける [つづける] is an essential verb for those learning the language. Its primary meaning is "to continue" or "to proceed," but its richness goes beyond simple translation. In this article, we will explore everything from its kanji writing to everyday usage, including memorization tips and cultural curiosities. If you want to understand how the Japanese view persistence through this word, you’ve come to the right place.

The Suki Nihongo dictionary is a great reference for learning Japanese, and here we will break down everything about 続ける. From its origin to practical examples, you will discover how this word appears in conversations, animes, and even in Japanese proverbs. Shall we get started?

Meaning and use of 続ける in daily life

続ける is a verb that conveys the idea of continuity, whether in actions, habits, or situations. It can be used for concrete things, such as "continuing to read a book" (本を読み続ける), as well as for abstractions, like "maintaining a tradition" (伝統を続ける). The flexibility of this term makes it common in everyday dialogues.

In Japan, persistence is a strong cultural value, and 続ける reflects this. When someone says "練習を続ける" (continue practicing), there is a weight of dedication. It’s no coincidence that this word appears often in motivational speeches, series, and even in song lyrics. Its use goes beyond the literal, conveying resilience.

Origin and writing of the kanji 続ける

The kanji 続 is composed of two elements: 糸 (thread) and 売 (to sell). The combination suggests the idea of "connected threads," which makes sense for a verb that indicates continuity. This etymology is confirmed by sources such as Kanjipedia and 漢字源, respected dictionaries in the study of Japanese writing.

It is worth noting that the reading つづける is the most common, but the same kanji can be read as "zoku" in compound words, such as 連続 (renzoku - sequence). This detail is important for students, as it shows how a single ideogram can have multiple pronunciations depending on the context.

Tips for memorizing and using 続ける correctly

An effective way to 続ける is to associate it with repetitive actions. For example, think of "waking up early every day" (毎日早く起き続ける) or "studying Japanese without stopping" (日本語を勉強し続ける). Creating sentences with real-life situations helps internalize the verb. Anki and other spaced repetition apps are great for practice.

Another useful curiosity: 続ける often appears combined with the -te form of other verbs, such as "食べ続ける" (to continue eating). This pattern is common in animes and dramas, so paying attention to dialogues can be quite a training exercise. How about starting to identify 続ける in the next series you watch?

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Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 続ける

• 続ける - base form
• 続けます - Polished form
• 続けました - past form
• 続けてください - imperative form
• 続けよう conditional form

Synonyms and similar words

• 継続する (Keizoku suru) - Continue or keep something ongoing.
• つづける (Tsuzukeru) - Continue something, follow up on an action.
• 続く (Tsuzuku) - Continue; refers to something that extends in time or space.
• 続けていく (Tsuzukete iku) - Continue doing something continuously.
• 継続していく (Keizoku shite iku) - Continue consistently over time.
• 持続する (Jizoku suru) - To maintain something for a period of time, emphasizing durability.
• 継続的に (Keizokuteki ni) - Continuously; it refers to the regularity of an action.
• 連続する (Renzoku suru) - It occurs in sequence; it refers to events that follow one after another.
• 継承する (Keishou suru) - Inheritance; ing something on, like a right or a tradition.
• 継ぐ (Tsugu) - Hereditary, to succeed or continue something that was started by another person.
• 継続的な (Keizokuteki na) - Continuous; adjective that describes something that is maintained for a long period.
• 継続的な取り組み (Keizokuteki na torikumi) - Continuous efforts; actions that are consistently maintained over time.
• 継続的な改善 (Keizokuteki na kaizen) - Continuous improvement; the process of consistently making something better.
• 継続的な成長 (Keizokuteki na seichou) - Continuous growth; development that occurs in a constant manner.
• 継続的な取引 (Keizokuteki na torihiki) - Continuous transactions; business interactions that occur regularly.
• 継続的な発展 (Keizokuteki na hatten) - Continuous development; progress that is sustained over time.
• 継続的な支援 (Keizokuteki na shien) - Continuous ; assistance that is provided consistently.
• 継続的な取り組みをする (Keizokuteki na torikumi o suru) - Make continuous efforts; keep actions regular.