Translation and Meaning of: 試し - tameshi

The Japanese word 試し (ためし, "tameshi") is a versatile term that appears in various contexts of everyday life and Japanese culture. Its main meaning revolves around the idea of "attempt," "test," or "experience," but its nuances go beyond that. In this article, we will explore what makes this expression so interesting for Japanese learners, from its practical usage to curiosities about its origin and application in common phrases.

If you have ever wondered how the Japanese use 試し in real conversations or what the best way to memorize it is, you are in the right place. Here at Suki Nihongo, we have gathered accurate information to help you master not just the translation, but also the cultural essence behind this word.

Meaning and usage of 試し in everyday Japanese.

試し carries the idea of trying something to a result. It can be used in both concrete situations ("testing a product") and abstract ones ("evaluating a possibility"). A classic example is the expression 試しに (tameshi ni), which means "as a test" or "just to try".

Unlike words like 実験 (jikken, "scientific experiment"), 試し has a more informal and personal tone. It is common to hear it in markets when someone asks to sample food, or in stores when testing an electronic device before buying. This practicality makes it frequent in the daily life of Japanese people.

The origin and components of 試し

The kanji 試, present in 試し, is composed of the radical 言 (language) combined with 式 (style, method). This combination suggests the idea of "putting to the test through a method," which perfectly reflects the meaning of the word. Interestingly, the same kanji appears in like 試合 (shiai, "sports match") and 試験 (shiken, "exam").

Historically, 試し has roots in the verb 試す (tamesu), which means "to test" or "to try." This connection to the action of sampling something explains why the word retains a practical meaning today, linked to direct experience rather than theories.

Tips for memorizing and using 試し correctly

An effective way to reinforce 試し is to associate it with everyday situations where tests are common. Think of phrases like "試しに着てみる" (trying it on just to see) or "試し買い" (buying to test). These examples show the word in real contexts, making memorization easier.

Another tip is to note that 試し often appears followed by particles like に (ni) or の (no), which help to construct complete sentences. Paying attention to these natural combinations avoids common mistakes among students. : when in doubt, the context usually clarifies whether the meaning is "attempt," "experience," or "test."

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 試み (kokoromi) - Attempt
• 実験 (jikken) - experiment
• 試みる (kokoromiru) - try
• 試す (tamesu) - Test, experiment
• 試みたい (kokoromitai) - I want to try.
• 試みよう (kokoromiyou) - let's try
• 試みられる (kokoromirareru) - To be tempted
• 試みの結果 (kokoromi no kekka) - Result of the attempt
• 試みの場合 (kokoromi no baai) - Attempt case
• 試みの方法 (kokoromi no houhou) - Trial method
• 試みの成功 (kokoromi no seikou) - Success of the attempt
• 試みの失敗 (kokoromi no shippai) - Failure of the attempt
• 試みの限界 (kokoromi no genkai) - Limits of the attempt
• 試みの条件 (kokoromi no jouken) - Conditions of the attempt