Translation and Meaning of: 台所 - daidokoro

The Japanese word 台所[だいどころ] is essential for anyone wishing to learn the language or understand more about the culture of Japan. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and use in daily life, as well as curiosities that make this expression interesting for students and enthusiasts. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese refer to the kitchen in formal and informal contexts, this content is for you.

In addition to being a common word in the Japanese vocabulary, 台所 carries cultural nuances that reflect domestic habits and even traditional values. Here, we will uncover its kanji writing along with practical tips for memorization, always based on reliable sources. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides this information clearly and accessibly for you.

Meaning and writing of 台所

台所 [だいどころ] literally means "kitchen," referring to the space in the house where meals are prepared. The word is composed of the kanji 台 (which can indicate a base or support) and 所 (place), forming the idea of "a location where food is prepared." Unlike キッチン (kitchin), a loanword from English "kitchen," 台所 has a more traditional tone.

It is worth noting that although the kanji 台 has other readings like "dai" or "tai", in this word it is read as だい (dai). Also, 所, which can appear in terms like 場所 (basho - place), here takes the reading どころ (dokoro). This combination of kanjis is an example of how Japanese blends meanings to create everyday terms.

Origin and Cultural Use

It is believed that 台所 emerged during the Edo period (1603-1868), when Japanese houses began to have spaces dedicated exclusively to food preparation. Before that, cooking often took place in open or multifunctional areas. The term reflects the appreciation for domestic organization in Japanese society of the time.

Culturally, the 台所 is not seen just as a practical space, but also as a family connection area. In many traditional homes, it is located close to the dining room, facilitating interaction during meals. This aspect contrasts with some modern Western designs, where the kitchen can be more isolated.

Tips for memorization and use

An effective way to remember 台所 is to associate the first kanji (台) with "daidokoro," since it starts with "dai." The second kanji (所) appears in several other words related to places, such as 場所 (basho) and 事務所 (jimusho - office). This connection helps to solidify the term in your vocabulary.

When using the word, remember that 台所 is more common in everyday situations than in formal contexts. In professional environments, such as restaurants, Japanese people tend to prefer terms like 調理場 (chōriba) or the already mentioned キッチン. This difference is important for those who want to sound natural when speaking Japanese.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• キッチン (kicchin) - Kitchen, usually used in informal contexts or in relation to modern kitchens.
• 料理場 (ryōriba) - Preparation area for meals, more formal and frequently used in professional contexts.
• 台所 (daidokoro) - Kitchen, a more traditional term used to designate the cooking space at home.

台所

Romaji: daidokoro
Kana: だいどころ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: kitchen

Meaning in English: kitchen

Definition: A place to cook.

Example Sentences - (台所) daidokoro

See below some example sentences:

私は台所で料理をします。

Watashi wa daidokoro de ryōri o shimasu

I cook in the kitchen.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 台所 (daidokoro) - noun that means "kitchen"
• で (de) - Particle that indicates the place where the action occurs
• 料理 (ryouri) - noun that means "to cook" or "cuisine"
• を (wo) - Particle indicating the direct object of the action.
• します (shimasu) - verb meaning "to do" or "to accomplish"