Translation and Meaning of: 形 - katachi

The Japanese word 形[かたち] is a fascinating term that carries deep meanings in the language and culture of Japan. If you are looking to understand its meaning, translation, or how it is used in everyday life, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore everything from its origin to practical uses of this word, including tips for memorization and curiosities based on reliable sources. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide the best content for those who wish to learn Japanese in a clear and accurate way.

Meaning and translation of 形[かたち]

形[かたち] is a word that can be translated as "shape" or "figure." It describes the physical appearance of something, whether an object, a person, or even an abstract concept. For example, when we talk about the shape of a sculpture or the outline of a mountain, 形 is the right word to use.

In addition to its literal meaning, 形 can also represent the "essence" or "structure" of something. In Japanese philosophy, it is often associated with the idea that the outer form reflects the inner. This duality of meaning makes the word versatile and present in various contexts, from everyday conversations to artistic expressions.

Origin and writing of the kanji 形

The kanji 形 is composed of two radicals: 开 (which represents "to open") and 彡 (which symbolizes "pattern" or "lines"). This combination suggests the idea of something that manifests visually, like a drawing or outline. The origin of the character dates back to ancient China, where it was used to describe the appearance of objects and people.

It is worth noting that 形 is not an extremely complex kanji, but its pronunciation can vary depending on the context. While かたち is the most common reading, in compounds like 形式 [けいしき] (format) or 形容 [けいよう] (description), it takes on the on'yomi reading. This flexibility is one of the reasons why the term is so frequent in the Japanese language.

How to memorize and use 形 in daily life

A practical tip for memorizing 形 is to associate it with concrete objects around you. Notice the shapes of the clouds, the form of your phone, or the outline of a building. By making this visual connection, you strengthen the link between the word and its meaning, making it easier to absorb the vocabulary.

In everyday life, 形 appears in expressions such as 形になる (to take shape) or 形を変える (to change shape). These phrases are useful for describing transformations, whether in personal projects or work situations. The more you practice with real examples, the more natural the use of this word will be in your Japanese.

Curiosities about 形 in Japanese culture

In traditional art, such as ikebana (flower arrangement) or the tea ceremony, the notion of 形 is essential. Each movement and arrangement follows aesthetic patterns that value the harmony of forms. This care reflects the importance that Japanese culture places on the balance between functionality and beauty.

Another interesting aspect is the use of 形 in proper names and brands. Companies and products often incorporate this kanji to convey the idea of solidity or design. If you pay attention, you will find 形 in logos, packaging, and even in titles of artistic works, showing its relevance beyond basic vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• かたち (katachi) - Form
• フォルム (forumu) - Form, structure (generally referring to appearance or design)
• シェイプ (sheipu) - Shape, outline (often applied in technical or artistic contexts)

形

Romaji: katachi
Kana: かたち
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4, jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: form; Format; figure; type

Meaning in English: form;shape;figure;type

Definition: It refers to the appearance, shape or condition of things or beings.

Example Sentences - (形) katachi

See below some example sentences:

この形容動詞はとても美しいです。

Kono keiyō dōshi wa totemo utsukushii desu

This adjective is very beautiful.

This adjective verb is very beautiful.

• この - this
• 形容動詞 - descriptive adjective
• は - Topic particle
• とても - very
• 美しい - beautiful
• です - is (polite way of putting it)

この図形は美しいです。

Kono zukei wa utsukushii desu

This figure is beautiful.

This figure is beautiful.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• 図形 - noun that means "geometric figure"
• は - topic particle that indicates that the subject of the sentence is "this geometric figure"
• 美しい - adjective meaning "beautiful" or "beautiful"
• です - verb to be or to be in the polite form

三角形は三つの辺を持つ図形です。

Sankakukei wa mittsu no hen o motsu zukukei desu

A triangle is a figure with three sides.

A triangle is a figure with three sides.

• 三角形 - means "triangle" in Japanese
• は - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 三つ - means "three" in Japanese
• の - Particle that indicates possession
• 辺 - means "side" in Japanese
• を - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
• 持つ - means "to have" or "to possess" in Japanese
• 図形 - means "geometric figure" in Japanese
• です - polite way of being or being in Japanese

丸い形のおにぎりが好きです。

Marui katachi no onigiri ga suki desu

I like round -shaped Onigiri.

I like round rice balls.

• 丸い - round
• 形 - Form
• の - Possessive particle
• おにぎり - rice ball
• が - subject particle
• 好き - like
• です - Verb ser/estar (polite form)

俳句は季節感を表現する素晴らしい詩形です。

Haiku wa kisetsukan wo hyōgen suru subarashii shikei desu

Haiku is a wonderful poetic form that expresses the feeling of the season.

Haiku is wonderful poetry that expresses the seasonal feeling.

• 俳句 - Japanese three-line poem
• 季節感 - feeling of the season
• 表現 - expression
• 素晴らしい - amazing
• 詩形 - poetic form

半径が長い円形のテーブルを探しています。

Hansei ga nagai enkei no teburu wo sagashiteimasu

I'm looking for a circular table with a long radius.

I'm looking for a circular table with a long radius.

• 半径 (hankei) - ray
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 長い (nagai) - far away
• 円形 (enkei) - circular
• の (no) - Possession particle
• テーブル (teeburu) - table
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 探しています (sagashiteimasu) - searching

原形を保つことが大切です。

Genkei wo tamotsu koto ga taisetsu desu

It is important to maintain its original form.

• 原形 - noun meaning "original form"
• を - direct object particle
• 保つ - verb meaning "keep"
• こと - noun indicating an abstract action or event
• が - subject particle
• 大切 - Adjective meaning "important"
• です - linking verb indicating a polite statement

未満の年齢は飲酒禁止です。

Miman no nenrei wa inshukinshi desu

Consumption of alcohol is prohibited for minors.

Drinking is prohibited for the age of under.

• 未満の年齢 - age below
• は - Topic particle
• 飲酒禁止 - prohibited from drinking alcohol
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present

清濁を分ける

Seidaku wo wakeru

Separate the pure from the unclean.

Divide the turbidity

• 清 - "dry; clear; clean"
• 濁 - "turbidity; impurity; dirt"
• を - object particle
• 分ける - "to divide; to separate; to share"

私の境遇は良くないです。

Watashi no kyōguu wa yokunai desu

My situation is not good.

• 私 - The personal pronoun that means "I" in Japanese.
• の - particle that indicates possession or belonging
• 境遇 - Noun meaning "situation" or "condition" in Japanese.
• は - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 良くない - adjective meaning "bad" or "not good" in Japanese
• です - linking verb that indicates formality and courtesy in the Japanese language