Translation and Meaning of: 着せる - kiseru

The Japanese word 着せる (きせる, kiseru) is a verb that carries interesting practical and cultural meanings. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its use can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts in which this word appears, along with tips for effectively memorizing it. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides accurate information to assist in your learning.

Meaning and usage of 着せる

The verb 着せる means "to dress someone" or "to put a piece of clothing on another person." Unlike 着る (きる, kiru), which refers to dressing oneself, 着せる is used when the action is directed towards another individual. For example, a mother might say she will 着せる her child with a coat in the winter.

This verb also appears in metaphorical contexts, such as in expressions that indicate "attributing" something to someone, whether it be a blame or a characteristic. This flexibility makes 着せる a useful word both in everyday situations and in more abstract contexts.

Origin and structure of kanji

The kanji 着, present in 着せる, is composed of the radical 目 (eye) and 羊 (sheep), suggesting an idea of "fixing" or "binding." This notion is related to the act of dressing, as clothes are literally "fixed" to the body. The reading きせる (kiseru) follows the pattern of ichidan class verbs, with regular conjugations.

It is worth noting that 着せる is not an ancient or rare verb. It appears frequently in everyday conversations, especially in family contexts or related to care. Its origin has no mythological connections, but its practical usefulness keeps it relevant in modern Japanese.

Tips for memorizing 着せる

An effective way to remember 着せる is to associate it with the verb 着る (kiru). While 着る means "to dress oneself," 着せる means "to dress someone." Creating contrasting sentences can help reinforce the difference. For example: "私は服を着る" (I dress in clothes) versus "母は子供に服を着せる" (the mother dresses the child).

Another tip is to practice with real situations. If you watch anime or Japanese dramas, pay attention when characters use 着せる in dialogues. Contexts like parents helping their children dress or friends teasing each other with funny clothes are great examples of the verb in action.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 着せる

着せる: transitive causative verb
着せられる: potential passive form
着せよう: volitional imperative form
着せて: て imperative form
着せました: past form passed

Synonyms and similar words

着る (kiru) - Wear (usually used for clothing that covers the upper part of the body)
身につける (mi ni tsukeru) - Adopt (refers to using and becoming familiar with clothing or accessories, emphasizing assimilation)
被る (kaburu) - Use (particularly to cover the head, such as hats or helmets)
着用する (chakuyou suru) - Use (a more formal term, often applied in specific or official contexts)