Translation and Meaning of: 向く - muku

Etymology and Definition of 「向く」 (muku)

The word 「向く」 (muku) is a Japanese verb that basically means "to turn towards" or "to be oriented towards" something. The kanji writing 「向」 incorporates the sense of direction or orientation. Originally, in Chinese characters, 「向」 had the meaning of "ventilation" or "exposure," indicating the idea of moving towards something. This kanji is composed of the radical 「口」 (kuchi) which means "mouth" or "opening" and the top part 「ノ」, which can symbolize orientation or direction.

In modern Japanese, 「向く」 is used to describe both physical and symbolic actions of direction. Physically, it can refer to the act of turning or orienting a surface or part of the body toward a specific direction. Symbolically, it can indicate a tendency or predisposition of attitude or interest. For example, a person can "muku" towards a specific career or show interest in a particular activity.

Usage and Variations of 「向く」

The word 「向く」 has several conjugations that change its meaning. Among the most common forms are:

「向ける」 (mukeru): Means "to turn" or "to direct something towards". Used when the action is caused by someone or something.
"向かう" (mukau): Means "to head towards" or "to move in the direction of," often functioning transitively.
"向こう" (mukou): Referenced in geographical contexts or as a point of reference, translating to "the other side" or "ahead."

It is fascinating to observe how the word 「向く」 and its variations are widely used in everyday Japanese. They not only indicate directions and spatial orientations but also reflect mental and emotional attitudes. For example, someone might say they are leaning towards a new idea or approaching a situation from a new perspective, using variations of the word.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 向く

向く - base form
向かない - negative
向いている - Present Continuous
向いた - simple past
向かれ - imperative

Synonyms and similar words

向ける (mukeru) - Direct, do something for someone.
向かう (mukau) - Go toward, move to.
向く (muku) - To turn to, to face.
向こう (mukou) - Opposite side, beyond, on the other side.
向け向く (muke muku) - Directing and orienting oneself; a combination of the two verbs.
向き合う (mukiau) - Face each other, confront.
向け合う (mukeau) - To face each other; similar to "mukiau", but emphasizes the direction.
向く先 (muku saki) - Direction one is turning; the objective to where the gaze is directed.
向く方向 (muku houkou) - Direction where one is pointing or turning.
向く場所 (muku basho) - The place to which one is headed or returning.
向く時間 (muku jikan) - The time dedicated to something; the moment that is focused.
向く気分 (muku kibun) - Emotional state or disposition towards something; how one is feeling about it.
向く性格 (muku seikaku) - Characteristics or personality traits that are oriented towards.
向く姿勢 (muku shisei) - Attitude or stance that points to; how one positions oneself in relation to something.
向く態度 (muku taido) - Attitude taken towards something; the way to face it.
向く目的 (muku mokuteki) - Objectives or purposes sought; what is intended to be achieved.
向く条件 (muku jouken) - Conditions that must be met to address something.
向く状況 (muku joukyou) - Situations that require specific guidance.
向く人物 (muku jinbutsu) - Person oriented towards; who has their characteristics aimed at.
向く仕事 (muku shigoto) - Work or occupation that one seeks or feels inclined towards.
向く能力 (muku nouryoku) - Skills that are oriented towards; abilities aimed at a specific direction.
向く教育 (muku kyouiku) - Training or education aimed at; teaching focused on something.
向く訓練 (muku kunren) - Training oriented towards; practices done with a specific purpose.
向く環境 (muku kankyou) - Environment that favors or adapts to a direction.
向く方法 (muku houhou) - Methods used to direct towards an end.
向く道具 (muku dougu) - Tools or instruments that assist in guidance.
向く技術 (muku gijutsu) - Techniques that are focused on a specific purpose.
向く知識 (muku chishiki) - Knowledge that applies or is relevant for guidance.
向く経験 (muku keiken) - Experiences that influence orientation in a certain context.