Translation and Meaning of: 記す - shirusu

The Japanese word 記す (しるす) carries a deep and utilitarian meaning in the language. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its use, origin, and context can be essential. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic meaning to curiosities about how this word is perceived in Japan. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides details that go beyond simple translation.

Meaning and use of 記す

記す is a verb that means "to record", "to note", or "to leave marked". It is often used in formal and written contexts, such as documents, diaries, or historical records. Unlike more casual words like 書く (to write), 記す carries a more solemn and permanent tone.

A classic example is its use in monuments or commemorative plaques, where one wishes to immortalize information. If you have ever visited a temple in Japan, you may have seen this word in inscriptions that record important events. This nuance of permanence is what differentiates 記す from other similar terms.

Origin and components of kanji

The kanji 記 is composed of two elements: 言 (language) and 己 (oneself). Together, they suggest the idea of "expressing something through writing so that it remains." This composition reflects well the meaning of the word, as it is related to enduring records.

Etymologically, 記す has roots in classical Chinese, but it has been adapted to Japanese with a more specific usage. While in Chinese the character can have broader applications, in Japanese it has mainly consolidated for contexts of formal or memorial recording.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 記す is to associate it with situations where information needs to be preserved, such as in contracts or important notes. An interesting curiosity is that this verb rarely appears in everyday conversations, being more common in written texts or formal speeches.

Another detail is that 記す is sometimes confused with 印す (mark), but while the former refers to written records, the latter is more related to physical or symbolic marks. This subtle difference is important for those who want to use the word correctly.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 記す

記す - 記す
• 記します formal conjugation
• 記す informal conjugation
• 記さない negative
• 記される passive

Synonyms and similar words

• 書く (kaku) - Write
• ノートにとる (nōto ni toru) - Tomar notas
• メモする (memo suru) - Fazer anotações
• 記録する (kiroku suru) - Registrar informações

記す

Romaji: shirusu
Kana: しるす
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to observe; to write

Meaning in English: to note;to write down

Definition: To write down information, facts, etc.

Example Sentences - (記す) shirusu

See below some example sentences:

私は毎日の出来事を日記に記す。

Watashi wa mainichi no dekigoto wo nikki ni shirusu

I record daily events in a diary.

I write my daily events in my diary.

• 私 - Japanese personal pronoun that means "I"
• は - topic particle that indicates that the subject of the sentence is "I"
• 毎日 - noun that means "every day"
• の - possessive particle that indicates that "every day" belongs to "exit"
• 出来事 - noun that means "event" or "occurrence"
• を - object particle that indicates that "event" is the direct object of the action "to write"
• 日記 - noun meaning "diary"
• に - particle indicating that "diary" is the destination of the action "to write"
• 記す - verb that means "to write" or "to record"

暗記が必要です。

Anki ga hitsuyou desu

I need memorization.

• 暗記 (anki) - memorization
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 必要 (hitsuyou) - necessary
• です (desu) - Verb to be/estar in the present