Translation and Meaning of: 賭け - kake

If you are learning Japanese or have a curiosity about the language, you may have come across the word 賭け (かけ - kake). It appears in various contexts, from everyday conversations to more intense narratives. But what exactly does this term mean? In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in Japanese culture. Additionally, we will look at practical tips for memorizing the word and understanding its significance in different situations.

Meaning and translation of 賭け (kake)

The word 賭け (kake) can be translated as "bet" or "gambling." It is directly linked to the idea of risking something valuable, whether money, reputation, or even feelings. In Japan, the term carries a connotation that goes beyond the simple act of playing, often involving significant consequences.

It is worth noting that 賭け is not limited to casinos or competitions. It can also be used metaphorically, as in situations where someone "bets" their future on an important decision. This flexibility makes the word common both in informal dialogues and in more serious discussions.

Origin and writing of the kanji 賭け

The kanji 賭 is composed of two main elements: 貝 (kaigai), which represents "shell" (formerly used as currency), and 者 (sha), which means "person." Together, they suggest the idea of someone involved in risky transactions. This combination well reflects the meaning of the word, as bets generally involve money and personal choices.

It is interesting to note that, although the term is old, its use remains relevant in modern Japanese. It appears in expressions like 賭け事 (kakegoto), which means "gambling," and even in titles of movies or dramas that address themes of risk and consequences.

How 賭け is used in daily Japanese life

In Japan, gambling is a sensitive topic due to legal and cultural restrictions. While practices like pachinko are popular, the act of "betting" (賭ける - kakeru) often carries a tone of caution or even disapproval. Therefore, it is common to see the word in contexts that highlight the dangers of impulsive decisions.

In conversations, you might hear phrases like "それは賭けだ" (sore wa kake da), which means "this is a gamble." The expression is used both literally and to describe situations where the outcome is uncertain. Whatever the case, the word always carries the notion that something is at stake.

Tips for memorizing 賭け (kake)

An effective way to fix the meaning of 賭け is to associate it with the verb 賭ける (kakeru), which means "to bet." Repeating phrases like "彼は全てを賭けた" (kare wa subete o kaketa - "he bet everything") helps to internalize the use of the term in real contexts. Another tip is to remember the radical 貝, which refers to monetary value.

For those who enjoy anime or dramas, paying attention to dialogues that involve conflicts or risky decisions can be helpful. Many stories use the word to highlight moments of tension, which makes it easier to memorize through exciting examples.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

賭ける (kakeru) - To bet; to put something of value at risk.
かける (kakeru) - It can mean 'to turn on', 'to put', or 'to play' depending on the context.
かじる (kajiru) - To chew; to gnaw.
とる (toru) - Take; grab; capture.
うかがう (ukagau) - Ask; inquire; observe.
あてにする (ate ni suru) - To count on; to depend on something or someone.
あてにかける (ate ni kakeru) - Putting hopes in someone or something.
あてにかかる (ate ni kakaru) - To be dependent on; to be at the mercy of.
あてにかかわる (ate ni kakawaru) - To relate to; to be involved in.
あてにならない (ate ni naranai) - Unreliable; you cannot count on it.
あてになる (ate ni naru) - To be reliable; to be trustworthy.
あてになるもの (ate ni naru mono) - Something reliable; something you can count on.
あてにはまる (ate ni hamaru) - To conform to; to fit into expectations.
あてにはめる (ate ni hameru) - Adjust something to meet an expectation.
あてにならぬ (ate ni naru nu) - Similar to 'あてにならない', a more archaic form.
あてにならぬもの (ate ni naru nu mono) - Something that is not trustworthy; something that cannot be relied upon.
あてにならないもの (ate ni naranai mono) - Something that is not reliable.
あてにならないこと (ate ni naranai koto) - A situation that is not trustworthy.
あてにならないことば (ate ni naranai kotoba) - Unreliable words.
あてにならない言葉 (ate ni naranai kotoba) - Words that cannot be counted; they are not trustworthy.
あてにならない人 (ate ni naranai hito) - Untrustworthy person.
あてにならない者 (ate ni naranai mono) - Untrustworthy individual.
あてにならないものばかり (ate ni naranai mono bakari) - Only things that are not trustworthy.