Translation and Meaning of: 極めて - kiwamete
The Japanese word 極めて [きわめて] is an adverb that carries significant weight in the Japanese language, often used to express extremes or intensity. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding how and when to use this word can enrich your vocabulary and cultural comprehension. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, everyday use, and even some tips for memorizing it effectively.
Besides being a useful word in daily life, 極めて also appears in formal and literary contexts, making it even more relevant for advanced students. Whether in conversations, academic texts, or even in animes and dramas, knowing its proper usage can make all the difference. Let's dive into the details of this expression and discover why it is so special in the Japanese language.
Meaning and Translation of 極めて
極めて é um advérbio que pode ser traduzido como "extremamente", "muito" ou "altamente". Ele é usado para enfatizar o grau máximo de algo, seja uma qualidade, um estado ou uma ação. Por exemplo, se alguém diz que uma situação é 極めて difícil, está afirmando que ela é extremamente complicada, quase no limite do possível.
An interesting characteristic of this word is that it is not used casually. Unlike other adverbs like とても or 非常に, which can appear in everyday conversations, 極めて tends to be more formal and even literary. This means that you will likely find it in speeches, articles, or more elaborate texts, where precision and intensity of language are important.
Origin and Composition of Kanji
The word 極めて is composed of the kanji 極 (きわ), which means "extreme" or "limit," followed by the particle めて, which acts as an adverbial suffix. The kanji itself is formed by the radical 木 (wood) and the component 亟, which suggests the idea of something that is at its peak or highest point. This combination reinforces the meaning of something that is at its maximum level.
It is worth noting that 極 also appears in other words such as 極限 (きょくげん - extreme limit) and 極端 (きょくたん - extreme), always maintaining the notion of something that is at its most intense or distant point. This consistency in meaning helps to understand why 極めて is so commonly used to express extremes in the Japanese language.
Cultural Use and Frequency
In Japan, 極めて is a word that carries a tone of seriousness and formality. It is not frequently used in informal conversations, but it appears often in journalistic, academic, and even political discussions. For example, a newspaper might describe an economic crisis as 極めて深刻な状況 (an extremely serious situation), emphasizing the gravity of the matter.
Furthermore, in animes and dramas that involve more serious or historical themes, it is common to hear characters using 極めて to express intense feelings or critical situations. If you pay attention, you will notice that it does not appear in everyday or light-hearted scenes, but rather in moments that require a more elaborate vocabulary.
Tips for Memorizing 極めて
An effective way to memorize 極めて is to associate it with extreme or superlative situations. Think of phrases like "極めて重要な問題" (an extremely important issue) or "極めて稀なケース" (an extremely rare case). By linking the word to contexts where the intensity is clear, it becomes easier to remember it.
Another tip is to practice writing the kanji 極, paying attention to its components. Remember that it represents something that is at the limit, like a peak or an extreme. This visualization can help internalize not only the meaning but also how the word is used in Japanese.
Vocabulary
Expand your vocabulary with related words:
Synonyms and similar words
- 極度に (Kyokudo ni) - Extremely; to an extreme degree.
- 非常に (Hijō ni) - Very; extremely; at a high level.
- 非常に高度な (Hijō ni kōdo na) - Extremely advanced; at a very high level.
- 極端に (Kyokutan ni) - In an extreme way; to an extreme degree.
- 極度の (Kyokudo no) - In an extreme state; extreme.
- 極めて高度な (Kiwamete kōdo na) - Extremely advanced; high level of complexity/sophistication.
- 極めて重要な (Kiwamete jūyō na) - Extremely important; highly relevant.
- 極めて深刻な (Kiwamete shinkoku na) - Extremely serious; of great severity.
- 極めて困難な (Kiwamete konnan na) - Extremely difficult; of great difficulty.
- 極めて複雑な (Kiwamete fukuzatsu na) - Extremely complex; very complicated.
- 極めて専門的な (Kiwamete senmonteki na) - Extremely specialized; high level of specialization.
- 極めて熟練した (Kiwamete jukuren shita) - Extremely skilled; high level of skill.
- 極めて効果的な (Kiwamete kōkateki na) - Extremely effective; very good effect.
- 極めて強力な (Kiwamete kyōryoku na) - Extremely powerful; of great strength.
- 極めて危険な (Kiwamete kiken na) - Extremely dangerous; high risk.
- 極めて珍しい (Kiwamete mezurashii) - Extremely rare; very uncommon.
- 極めて美しい (Kiwamete utsukushii) - Extremely beautiful; of great beauty.
- 極めて優れた (Kiwamete sugureta) - Extremely excellent; of high quality.
- 極めて有用な (Kiwamete yūyō na) - Extremely useful; of great utility.
- 極めて興味深 (Kiwamete kyōmibukai) - Extremely interesting; of great curiosity.
Romaji: kiwamete
Kana: きわめて
Type: adverb
L: jlpt-n1
Translation / Meaning: overly; extremely
Meaning in English: exceedingly;extremely
Definition: Very, exaggerated.
Quick Access
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Sentences
How to Write in Japanese - (極めて) kiwamete
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (極めて) kiwamete:
Example Sentences - (極めて) kiwamete
See below some example sentences:
Kyokumete utsukushii keshiki desu
It is an extremely beautiful landscape.
It is a very beautiful view.
- 極めて - extremely
- 美しい - beautiful
- 景色 - landscape
- です - is
Other Words of this Type: adverb
See other words from our dictionary that are also: adverb