Translation and Meaning of: 世話 - sewa

The Japanese word 世話 (せわ, sewa) is a common term in everyday life in Japan, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. It carries important cultural nuances, reflecting values such as care, assistance, and even dependence. In this article, we will explore what 世話 truly means, how it is used in different contexts, and why it is so relevant for those studying Japanese or interested in the culture of the country.

Meaning and use of 世話

In its essence, 世話 (sewa) means "care" or "assistance," but its use encompasses situations ranging from helping someone in daily life to expressing gratitude for support received. For example, saying "お世話になります" (osewa ni narimasu) is a polite way of thanking someone for a favor or ongoing help, common in work environments and personal relationships.

The term also appears in expressions like "世話を焼く" (sewa o yaku), which describes someone who meddles or excessively worries about others. This duality between care and interference shows how the word can have both positive and negative connotations, depending on the context.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The writing of 世話 combines two kanjis: 世 (se), which means "world" or "generation," and 話 (wa), which refers to "speech" or "conversation." Together, they suggest the idea of "taking care of the world" or "assistance through interaction." This composition reflects well the practical meaning of the word, which often involves human relationships and mutual support.

It is worth noting that, although 話 alone is read as "hanashi" (story), in compounds like 世話, it adopts the reading "wa." This type of variation is common in Japanese and reinforces the importance of studying kanjis in context, not just in isolation.

Cultural usage and memorization tips

In Japan, the notion of sewa is related to the concept of reciprocity and social obligation. Expressions like "お世話様です" (osewa-sama desu) are used to acknowledge the efforts of others, especially in hierarchical situations, such as between teacher and student or boss and subordinate. This cultural aspect makes the word a key element in respectful communication.

To memorize 世話, one tip is to associate the kanji 世 with "world" and 話 with "interaction." Imagine someone taking care of the world through small actions – this image can help reinforce the meaning. Another strategy is to practice with everyday phrases, such as "いつもお世話になっております" (itsumo osewa ni natte orimasu), used to thank for ongoing support.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 世繕い (Yosewai) - Care and gestures of assistance, often related to beautifying or tidying up.
• 世話やき (Sewayaki) - A person who enjoys taking care of others, with a positive connotation of concern and attention.
• 世話係 (Sewakake) - Person responsible for taking care of or helping others in a specific context.
• 世話役 (Sewayaku) - Role or title of someone who provides assistance, usually in a group or event.
• 世話人 (Sewaningen) - Individual who dedicates themselves to caring for or helping others; more generalized.
• 世話好き (Sewazuki) - One who likes to take care of others; can be used affectionately.
• 世話焼き (Sewayaki) - Similar to "sewayaki," it emphasizes the act of taking care, with a tender tone.
• 世話焼き屋 (Sewayakiya) - Business or person that specializes in providing care or assistance to others.
• 世話焼き女 (Sewayaki onna) - A woman who stands out for her care and attention to others.
• 世話焼き男 (Sewayaki otoko) - A man who stands out for his care and attention to others.
• 世話焼き親父 (Sewayaki oyaji) - Father or older man who is known for taking care of others attentively.
• 世話焼きおばさん (Sewayaki obasan) - Older woman who dedicates herself to taking care of others, often using a tone of affection.
• 世話焼きおばあさん (Sewayaki obaasan) - Loving grandmother known for caring and providing assistance.
• 世話焼きおじさん (Sewayaki ojisan) - Older man who has the habit of caring for or assisting, usually with affection.
• 世話焼きおじいさん (Sewayaki ojiisan) - Grandfather who shows care and concern for others.
• 世話好きな人 (Sewazuki na hito) - A person who shows a strong desire to care for and support others.
• 世話好きな女性 (Sewazuki na josei) - Woman who enjoys caring for and helping others, with a positive connotation.
• 世話好きな男性 (Sewazuki na dansei) - Man who enjoys taking care of and supporting others.
• 世話好きな親友 (Sewazuki na shinyuu) - Best friend who has a strong instinct to care for and support.
• 世話好きな家族 (Sewazuki na kazoku) - Family that shows a high level of care and mutual concern.
• 世話好きな上司 (Sewazuki na joushi) - A boss who actively cares about the well-being of their subordinates.

世話

Romaji: sewa
Kana: せわ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: to care; help; help; assistance

Meaning in English: looking after;help;aid;assistance

Definition: To take care of others.

Example Sentences - (世話) sewa

See below some example sentences:

身の回りの世話をする。

Mino mawari no sewa wo suru

Take care of things around yourself.

Take care.

• 身の回り - It refers to things related to the body, such as clothes, personal hygiene, etc.
• の - Particle that indicates possession or relationship.
• 世話 - Care, attention, assistance.
• を - Particle that indicates the object of the action.
• する - Verb that means "to do" or "to make".

世話をすることは大切です。

Sewa wo suru koto wa taisetsu desu

Taking care of others is important.

It is important to take care of it.

• 世話をする - take care
• こと - thing
• は - Topic particle
• 大切 - important
• です - Verb to be in the present