Translation and Meaning of: 苦労 - kurou

The Japanese word 苦労 (くろう, kurou) carries a deep and everyday meaning at the same time. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese express the idea of difficulty, effort, or suffering, this is one of the key words. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in Japan, from informal conversations to more serious contexts. Whether you are a Japanese language student or just curious about the culture, understanding 苦労 can open doors to a richer understanding of the language.

In addition to uncovering the literal translation, let's dive into practical examples, cultural curiosities, and even tips for memorizing this word. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, has gathered accurate information so that you not only memorize but also internalize the real use of 苦労. Shall we begin?

Meaning and translation of 苦労

苦労 (くろう) is often translated as "suffering," "difficulty," or "hard effort." However, its meaning goes beyond the simple act of going through something tough. The word carries a nuance of persistence, something that requires patience and resilience. For example, when a Japanese person says "苦労した" (kurou shita), they are not just complaining, but often highlighting that they have overcome a challenge.

It's worth noting that 苦労 is not limited to major tragedies. It can be used for everyday situations, such as studying for a difficult exam or dealing with a complicated project at work. This versatility means that the word appears in various contexts, from casual conversations to motivational speeches.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The writing of 苦労 in kanji reveals much about its meaning. The first character, 苦, means "bitterness" or "suffering," while 労 can be translated as "work" or "fatigue." Together, they paint the picture of an effort that is not easy, but often leads to personal growth. This combination is not random—it reflects deep values of Japanese culture, where hard work and perseverance are highly valued.

Interestingly, the pronunciation くろう (kurou) has a sound that some associate with something heavy or difficult. While this is subjective, it can be a useful hint for students to memorize the word. A proven fact is that 苦労 appears in classic Japanese texts, showing that its usage dates back centuries, always with this essence of a challenge overcome.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, talking about 苦労 is not seen as merely negative. Often, sharing experiences of hardship is a way to create bonds, showing that everyone faces challenges. You might hear phrases like "苦労は買ってでもせよ" (kurou wa katte demo seyo), a proverb that means something like "It is worth going through difficulties." This reveals how the culture views suffering as a path to maturity.

The word is quite common in everyday life, appearing in dramas, songs, and even in business conversations. A boss might say to a new employee: "最初は苦労するだろう" (saisho wa kurou suru darou), indicating that the first times will be tough, but are part of the process. This cultural acceptance of difficulty as something natural and even necessary differentiates the use of 苦労 from simple synonyms in other languages.

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Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 苦難 (kunan) - Difficulty, a situation of extreme suffering.
• 苦痛 (kutsuu) - Pain, physical or emotional suffering.
• 苦悩 (kunou) - Anguish, mental suffering, and emotional torment.
• 苦心 (kushin) - Commitment, agonizing effort in search of a solution.
• 苦しむ (kurushimu) - To suffer, to go through suffering or pain.

苦労

Romaji: kurou
Kana: くろう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: problems; difficulties

Meaning in English: troubles;hardships

Definition: To go through hardships or difficulties.

Example Sentences - (苦労) kurou

See below some example sentences:

ご苦労様です。

Gokurousama desu

It means "Thank you for your hard work." It is a common expression used to thank someone for their effort or work done.

Thank you for your hard work.

• ご - Japanese honorific prefix
• 苦労 - hard work, difficulty
• 様 - Japanese honorific suffix
• です - Verb "to be" in the present tense

苦労は報われる。

Kurou wa mukuwareru

Difficulties are rewarded.

• 苦労 - means "difficulty" or "suffering".
• は - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case "苦労".
• 報われる - verb that means "to be rewarded" or "to be gratified."