Translation and Meaning of: 碁 - go

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about Japanese culture, you may have come across the word 碁[ご]. Although it seems simple, it carries deep meanings and an interesting history. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and even some tips for memorizing it. If you want to better understand Japanese vocabulary, Suki Nihongo is the best dictionary to help you on this journey.

The meaning and origin of 碁[ご]

The word 碁[ご] refers to the board game known as Go in the West. Unlike other games, Go is one of the oldest board strategies, with over 2,500 years of history. Its origins date back to China, but it was in Japan that the game developed and gained elevated cultural status, being practiced by samurai and even influencing military strategies.

The kanji 碁 is composed of the radical 石 (stone), which refers to the pieces of the game, and by 其, which used to represent a board. This combination not only describes the physical object of the game but also reinforces its strategic and tactical nature. It is worth noting that although it is a short term, ご is widely recognized in Japan, especially among board game enthusiasts.

How 碁[ご] is used in Japan today

In contemporary Japan, Go is still very popular, both as a pastime and as a competitive discipline. There are specialized schools, professional tournaments, and even mangas that explore the game, such as "Hikaru no Go." Many Japanese people view Go not just as a game, but as a way to develop patience, logical reasoning, and even philosophical principles.

An interesting fact is that, although it is a traditional game, Go has also gained ground in the digital world. Online platforms and apps allow players from around the world to compete in matches, keeping the word ご relevant even among younger generations. If you visit Japan, you can find Go houses (碁会所) where practitioners gather to play.

Tips for memorizing and using 碁[ご]

If you're learning Japanese and want to remember this word, a good strategy is to associate the kanji 碁 with the stones (石) used in the game. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "碁を打つ" (go o utsu - play Go). Since the game has a short and straightforward name, it's easy to incorporate it into your everyday vocabulary.

For those who want to go further, watching Go matches or even playing a few rounds can help reinforce the term. Many Japanese language learners find that by immersing themselves in cultural aspects like this, the learning process becomes more natural and enjoyable. And if you need more examples or explanations, Suki Nihongo offers a complete collection to enrich your studies.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 囲碁 (igo) - Strategy board game known as Go.
• イゴ (igo) - Transliteration of the game of Go, usually used in more informal contexts.
• 着碁 (chakigo) - Starting position in the game of Go.
• 盤碁 (bango) - Regarding the board used to play Go.
• 囲石 (iishi) - The stone that is placed to enclose the territory.
• 碁盤 (goban) - Go board.
• 碁石 (goseki) - Pieces of stone used in the game of Go.
• 碁会所 (go-kaisho) - Place where Go players gather.
• 碁士 (goshi) - Professional Go player.
• 碁界 (gokai) - Go World, the community of players and their events.
• 碁聖 (gosei) - Title given to the most skilled player in Go.
• 碁王 (go-o) - Top title in Go competitions.
• 碁道 (godo) - Path or philosophy behind the game of Go.
• 碁歴 (goreki) - The history or journey of a Go player.
• 碁文化 (go bunka) - Culture related to Go.
• 碁書 (gosho) - Books about the game of Go.
• 碁具 (gogu) - Equipment used in the game of Go.
• 碁宴 (goen) - Banquet or party around the game of Go.
• 碁戦 (gosen) - Go game, competition between players.
• 碁指し (go-zashi) - The person who makes the moves in Go.
• 碁譜 (gofu) - Record of the moves made in a game of Go.

碁

Romaji: go
Kana: ご
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: GO (Territory capture board game)

Meaning in English: Go (board game of capturing territory)

Definition: Go is a board game that uses black and white stones to move one by one alternately on the board.

Example Sentences - (碁) go

See below some example sentences:

碁を打つのが好きです。

Go wo utsu no ga suki desu

I like to hit Go.

• 碁 - means "go", a Japanese board game
• を - object particle
• 打つ - verb meaning "to throw" or "to hit"
• の - particle of possession or explanation
• が - subject particle
• 好き - adjective meaning "to like"
• です - auxiliary verb that indicates politeness or formality