Translation and Meaning of: 繰り返す - kurikaesu

The Japanese word 繰り返す [くりかえす] is an essential verb for anyone learning the language, especially due to its meaning and application in everyday life. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in different contexts. Additionally, we will provide tips for memorizing it and curiosities about its use in Japanese culture. If you seek to better understand this expression, you have come to the right place!

Meaning and use of 繰り返す

繰り返す means "to repeat" or "to do something again". It is a common verb in Japanese, used in both everyday situations and more formal contexts. For example, it can be applied to indicate the repetition of an action, such as "to repeat a word" (言葉を繰り返す) or "to redo a process" (手順を繰り返す). Its versatility allows it to appear in various situations.

In addition to its literal meaning, 繰り返す also carries an idea of continuity, often associated with cycles or patterns. In conversations, it can be used to ask someone to repeat a phrase or even to describe events that repeat over time. This dual application makes the word even more interesting for language learners.

Origin and writing in kanji

The word 繰り返す is composed of two kanji: 繰 (which refers to "rolling" or "going through something") and 返 (which means "to return"). Together, they reinforce the idea of something that comes back or repeats. This combination is not random, as it effectively reflects the meaning of the verb. It is worth noting that the kun'yomi reading (くりかえす) is more common in everyday use, while the on'yomi appears in compound terms.

An interesting detail is that the kanji 繰 also appears in other words related to movement or repetition, such as 繰り越す (to transfer to the next period) and 繰り上げる (to advance). This connection between the characters helps to better understand the structure of the Japanese language and how the radicals relate to each other.

Tips for memorization and cultural use

To memorize 繰り返す, an effective strategy is to associate it with situations where repetition is evident, such as songs with choruses or daily routines. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, like "この練習を繰り返してください" (Please repeat this exercise). Constant use in real contexts facilitates retention.

In Japanese culture, the idea of repetition is linked to values such as perseverance and continuous improvement, often observed in practices like martial arts training or the study of calligraphy. 繰り返す is not just a verb, but a concept that reflects important aspects of the Japanese mindset. Its use goes beyond the linguistic, entering the philosophical and cultural realm.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• くりかえす (kurikaesu) - Repeat something several times
• 反復する (hanpuku suru) - Repetition of a process or action, usually in the context of learning
• リピートする (ripīto suru) - Repeat, often used in informal contexts related to music or media.
• 再度する (saido suru) - Start over, emphasizing a new beginning or attempt.
• 繰り返し行う (kurikaeshi okonau) - Execute repeatedly, emphasizing the aspect of continuity.

繰り返す

Romaji: kurikaesu
Kana: くりかえす
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: repeat; do something again

Meaning in English: to repeat;to do something over again

Definition: To do the same actions or words repeatedly.

Example Sentences - (繰り返す) kurikaesu

See below some example sentences:

私は同じことを繰り返すとすぐに飽きます。

Watashi wa onaji koto wo kurikaesu to sugu ni akiramasu

I get bored quickly when I do the same thing over and over again.

I get bored as soon as I repeat the same thing.

• 私 (watashi) - I
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 同じ (onaji) - Mesmo, igual
• こと (koto) - thing
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 繰り返す (kurikaesu) - repeat
• と (to) - Quote particle
• すぐに (sugu ni) - immediately
• 飽きます (akimasu) - to get bored, tired

歴史は繰り返す。

Rekishi wa kurikaesu

History repeats itself.

History repeats itself.

• 歴史 - word in Japanese that means "history"
• は - particle in Japanese that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 繰り返す - word in Japanese that means "repeat"

繰り返すことは学びの基礎です。

Kurikaesu koto wa manabi no kiso desu

Repetition is the basis of learning.

• 繰り返す - repeat
• こと - thing
• は - Topic particle
• 学び - learning
• の - Possessive particle
• 基礎 - base/foundation
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present

周期は定期的に繰り返されます。

Shuuki wa teikiteki ni kurikaesaremasu

Cycles repeat regularly.

The cycle is repeated regularly.

• 周期 - Period
• は - Topic particle
• 定期的に - regularly
• 繰り返されます - is repeated

疲労が溜まっている。

Hirou ga tsumatteiru

I'm accumulating fatigue.

I am tired.

• 疲労 - Fatigue, tiredness
• が - subject particle
• 溜まっている - accumulating, accumulating