Translation and Meaning of: 爪 - tsume

If you are learning Japanese or have curiosity about the language, you may have come across the word 爪[つめ]. It is simple, but carries interesting meanings and uses in everyday Japanese life. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, writing in kanji, and how it appears in cultural and linguistic contexts. Additionally, we will see practical tips for memorizing it and understanding its role in common expressions.

Meaning and usage of 爪[つめ]

The word 爪[つめ] means "nail," referring to both the nails on hands and feet. It is a common term used in everyday conversations as well as in medical or beauty contexts. For example, in manicure salons in Japan, it is common to hear phrases like 「爪を切ってください」 ("Please cut my nails").

In addition to its literal meaning, 爪[つめ] can appear in idiomatic expressions and proverbs. A well-known example is 「爪に火をともす」, which means "to be extremely frugal" – a vivid image of someone so economical that they would use the flame of a fingernail to illuminate something. This type of usage demonstrates how the Japanese language leverages concrete terms to convey abstract ideas.

Origin and writing of the kanji 爪

The kanji 爪 has an interesting visual history. It represents the shape of a curved claw or nail, and its ancient drawing on oracle bones in China already showcased this representation. This character is an example of a pictographic kanji, where the writing imitates the appearance of the object it describes.

Although it is a simple kanji, it appears as a radical in other characters related to body parts or actions involving "grabbing." For example, in the kanji 爬 (to crawl), the radical 爪 suggests the motion of scratching or clinging to a surface. This connection helps students memorize not only 爪 but also other kanjis that use it as a component.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 爪[つめ] is to associate its kanji with a curved nail or claw. Visualizing the shape can make memorization easier, especially since the bottom stroke resembles the curvature of a nail being cut. This technique is useful for those who are starting to learn kanjis based on pictograms.

Interestingly, in Japan, taking care of nails goes beyond aesthetics. There’s even a term, 「爪切り恐怖症」 (fear of cutting nails), which shows how this simple act can have deeper cultural meanings. Moreover, in some regions, it is believed that well-groomed nails bring luck, reflecting the importance of personal presentation in Japanese society.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 爪 (tsume) - Nail; tip of a sharp object.
• つめ (tsume) - Nail; tip of a sharp object.
• ツメ (tsume) - Nail; tip of a sharp object.

爪

Romaji: tsume
Kana: つめ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: nails or claw; talon; hoof

Meaning in English: fingernail or toenail;claw;talon;hoof

Definition: Hard and sharp parts made of dead skin at the tips of the fingers and toes.

Example Sentences - (爪) tsume

See below some example sentences:

爪を研ぐ者は利を得る。

Tsume wo togu mono wa ri wo eru

He who sharpens his claws gets benefits.

The person who sharpens nails becomes profitable.

• 爪 (tsume) - nail, claw
• を (wo) - Particle that indicates the object of the action
• 研ぐ (togu) - sharpen, grind
• 者 (mono) - person
• は (wa) - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 利 (ri) - benefit, profit
• を (wo) - Particle that indicates the object of the action
• 得る (eru) - obtain, gain

Translation - "Those who sharpen their claws gain profit."

能ある鷹は爪を隠す。

Nō aru taka wa tsume o kakusu

A skilled hawk hides your claws.

Noh Hawk hides the claws.

• 能ある鷹 - "capable eagle"
• は - Topic marking particle
• 爪 - "claws"
• を - direct object particle
• 隠す - "hide"