Translation and Meaning of: 尊ぶ - tattobu

The Japanese word 尊ぶ (たっとぶ) carries a deep and culturally rich meaning, often associated with values such as respect, reverence, and appreciation. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and usage in everyday Japanese, as well as understand how it connects with the philosophy and society of Japan. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, this content will help unravel the details of this highly significant expression.

Meaning and use of 尊ぶ

尊ぶ (たっとぶ) is a verb that expresses the idea of valuing something or someone in a high manner, often with a tone of deep respect or reverence. It can be used to describe attitudes towards traditions, worthy individuals, or even abstract concepts like freedom and wisdom. Unlike more common words like "to respect," 尊ぶ carries a more solemn and almost sacred nuance.

In daily life, Japanese people use this word in formal contexts or in discussions about ethical values. For example, one might say that a society that 尊ぶ justice is one that places moral principles above individual interests. Although it is not a word frequently used in casual conversations, its presence in speeches, literature, and even public policies is prominent.

Origin and components of kanji

The kanji 尊 is composed of elements that reinforce its meaning. At the top, we have 酉 (とり), which originally represented a wine vessel used in rituals, while the bottom part 寸 (sun) symbolizes measure or proportion. Together, they convey the idea of something worthy of being measured carefully, that is, valuable. This construction well reflects the concept of treating something with high esteem.

It is worth noting that 尊 also appears in other important words, such as 尊敬 (そんけい - respect) and 尊厳 (そんげん - dignity). This relationship between the terms helps to understand how the idea of valuing is rooted in the Japanese language. Studying these connections can be a great way to memorize vocabulary and its deeper meanings.

Cultural and philosophical context

In Japan, the notion of 尊ぶ is closely linked to concepts such as 和 (harmony) and 礼 (reverence), which are pillars of traditional culture. It often appears in discussions about the preservation of customs, the treatment of the elderly, and even the way nature is viewed – not as a resource, but as something to be honored. This perspective influences everything from religious ceremonies to environmental policies.

An interesting fact is that, during the Edo period, the word was used in Confucian texts to describe loyalty to superiors and ancestors. Today, its use has evolved, but it still carries that weight of seriousness. In animes and historical dramas, for example, it is common to see characters using 尊ぶ when talking about noble missions or ideals, which reinforces its image as a term of emotional and moral significance.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 尊ぶ

• 尊ぐ - dictionary form
• 尊ぎます - Polite form 丁寧語
• 尊ぎました - simple past
• 尊げる - potential
• 尊ぎますか - Polite way of asking

Synonyms and similar words

• 尊敬する (sonkei suru) - To respect, to have a high degree of consideration or admiration for someone.
• 敬う (uyamau) - Honor, show respect, generally related to actions or behaviors.
• 仰ぐ (aogu) - To look up, to venerate or respect, mainly in a sense of recognizing superiority.
• 重んじる (omonjiru) - To value, consider important, recognizing the dignity and worth of something or someone.

尊ぶ

Romaji: tattobu
Kana: たっとぶ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to value; reward; to estimate

Meaning in English: to value;to prize;to esteem

Definition: Value and respect others and things.

Example Sentences - (尊ぶ) tattobu

See below some example sentences:

私たちは祖先を尊ぶべきです。

Watashitachi wa sosen o toutobu beki desu

We must respect our ancestors.

We must respect our ancestors.

• 私たち - "We"
• は - Topic particle
• 祖先 - "Ancestral"
• を - Direct object particle
• 尊ぶ - "Respeitar"
• べき - suffix indicating obligation or duty
• です - Polite form of "to be" or "to stay"