Translation and Meaning of: 増し - mashi

The Japanese word 「増し」(mashi) has an interesting etymology. It derives from the verb 「増す」(masu), which means "to increase" or "to add." Originally, 「増す」 is composed of the kanji 「増」 that represents "to increment" and is used to describe the quantitative or qualitative addition of something. The use of the suffix 「し」 transforms this verb into a noun or adjective, which is generally employed to describe something that has become better in comparison to something else.

In terms of definition, 「増し」 denotes a form of improvement or superiority. When discussing personal preferences or comparative evaluations, 「増し」 is used to express that one option is more desirable or less bad than another. It does not necessarily entail an ideal choice, but rather something that is considered preferable in a given context. This makes the word very useful in everyday situations where decisions involve comparing available alternatives.

The origin of the use of 「増し」 as an expression for "preferable" is rooted in Japanese culture and philosophy, where there is often a pursuit of harmony and continuous improvement. Over time, the language has evolved to incorporate nuances that facilitate the communication of these subtleties. Today, 「増し」 is commonly heard in informal conversations among friends or family, reflecting subjective evaluation and value judgment in various situations.

1. Application in comparative judgments.
2. Expression of superiority or preference.
3. Use in informal speeches and everyday contexts.

Understanding the cultural and etymological importance of 「増し」, we can appreciate how this word captures the essence of the Japanese pursuit of improvement and balance. Moreover, the use of 「増し」 provides a useful and practical perspective when making decisions in daily life, where we often encounter choices that are not absolute but require careful consideration.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 改善 (kaizen) - Improvement, continuous enhancement
• 向上 (kōjō) - Elevation, progress
• 強化 (kyōka) - Strengthening, intensification
• 強める (tsuyomeru) - Strengthen, intensify
• 増強 (zōkyō) - Reinforcement, capacity increase
• 増進 (zōshin) - Increase, improvement (general)
• 良化 (ryōka) - Improvement, quality improvement
• 上昇 (jōshō) - Rise, level up
• 上向き (uwamuki) - Upward direction, optimistic
• 上達 (jōtatsu) - Advancement, progress in skill
• 上昇する (jōshō suru) - Increase, rise (to a higher level)
• 向上する (kōjō suru) - progress, improve
• 強化する (kyōka suru) - Strengthen, reinforce (actively)
• 強める (tsuyomeru) - Strengthen, intensify (active)
• 増強する (zōkyō suru) - Increase capacity, strengthen
• 増進する (zōshin suru) - Promote, increase (the benefits)
• 良化する (ryōka suru) - Improve, become better
• 上昇する (jōshō suru) - Level up, ascend in rank
• 上向きになる (uwamuki ni naru) - Enter a phase of optimism
• 上向く (uwamuku) - Turn things around, improve (the situation)
• 上達する (jōtatsu suru) - Develop skills, progress in learning

増し

Romaji: mashi
Kana: まし
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: extra; additional; less objectionable; better; preferable

Meaning in English: extra;additional;less objectionable;better;preferable

Definition: "Adding more to things."

Example Sentences - (増し) mashi

See below some example sentences:

味が増しました。

aji ga mashimashita

The taste increased.

• 味 - flavor
• が - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 増しました - Increased