Translation and Meaning of: 目覚し - mezamashi

The word 「目覚し」 (mezamashi) is a Japanese term that carries the meaning of "alarm clock" or something that awakens. This word is commonly used to refer to a clock that has the function of helping people wake up in the morning. The construction of the term is interesting, as it combines two elements: 「目」 (me), which means "eye", associated with vision or wakefulness, and 「覚し」 (zashi), derived from the verb 「覚ます」 (samasu), which means "to wake up" or "to awaken". Together, these parts form the idea of something that "awakens the eyes", or in other words, something that brings us out of a state of sleep.

Etymologically, the radical 「目」 is used in various words related to vision or the act of seeing, reinforcing the association of this body part with perception and a state of alertness. Meanwhile, the radical 「覚」 is linked to the idea of "awareness" or "memory," and in the context of 「目覚し」, it suggests the transition from sleep to wakefulness. This term is a fascinating combination that represents a simple yet essential concept in people's daily lives: the daily transition from sleep to a state of alertness.

The use of 「目覚し」 in Japanese culture goes beyond the simple function of waking up. Historically, before modern alarm clocks, it was common to use natural methods to wake up, such as sunlight. However, with urbanization and the growing dependence on fixed working hours, the 「目覚し時計」 (mezamashi dokei), or "alarm clock," became indispensable. This evolution reflects not only technological changes but also cultural shifts, where time management becomes crucial in an increasingly synchronized world.

Moreover, "目覚し" can be seen in metaphorical contexts, where something can be a "waker" in the sense of opening a person's eyes to a new reality or understanding. This broadening of meaning demonstrates the flexibility and depth that compound words and concepts in the Japanese language often carry, providing a rich field for cultural exploration and understanding.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 起床時計 (Kishou Tokei) - Alarm clock (more general, may include bedside clocks).
• 目覚まし時計 (Mezamashi Tokei) - Alarm clock (with a specific function to wake up).
• 目覚まし鐘 (Mezamashi Kane) - Alarm bell (usually used in more traditional contexts or in temples).
• 目覚ましアラーム (Mezamashi Araamu) - Alarm clock (referring to modern electronic alarms).

目覚し

Romaji: mezamashi
Kana: めざまし
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Alarm clock

Meaning in English: alarm-clock

Definition: What happens to wake up from sleep.

Example Sentences - (目覚し) mezamashi

See below some example sentences:

目覚しをセットしました。

Mezamashi wo setto shimashita

I set the alarm clock.

I set the alarm.

• 目覚し (mezamashi) - Alarm clock
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• セット (setto) - adjust, configure
• しました (shimashita) - past tense of the verb "to do"