Translation and Meaning of: 跨ぐ - matagu

The Japanese word 「跨ぐ」 (matagu) is a verb that means "to cross" or "to step over," typically referring to the physical act of passing or jumping over something with legs spread apart, such as a fence or a puddle. This term is often used in informal contexts when discussing surpassing physical or figurative boundaries. The word is intrinsically linked to actions that require overcoming obstacles in a dynamic and flexible manner.

Etimologically, 「跨ぐ」 is composed of two main aspects: the base verb 「跨」 (mata), which means to cross or stretch the legs, and the verbal suffix 「ぐ」 (gu), which is used to construct the transitive verb in this case. The presence of the element 「跨」 is associated with the idea of expansive movement, which can be related to the radicals that suggest a breadth of steps or actions. This efficient combination describes a specific action in a way that captures the essence of the activity involved.

Besides its use in physical contexts, 「跨ぐ」 can appear in more abstract conversations to describe overcoming intangible barriers or challenges. This gives the word an interesting versatility, allowing discussions about personal or professional overcoming experiences. In cultural or traditional narratives, 「跨ぐ」 can be interwoven in stories of heroism, where characters overcome monumental obstacles, emphasizing courage and determination.

In everyday life, Japanese people may use 「またぐ」 to instruct children not to cross certain boundaries mischievously or to step over objects inappropriately, reinforcing social and behavioral norms. This educational aspect reflects the importance of expression in Japanese daily life, where respect and adherence to social rules are highly valued.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 跨ぐ

• 跨ぐ - basic form
• 跨げる - Potential
• 跨ぎます - Polished form
• 跨ぎます - Polished form
• 跨いだ - Past

Synonyms and similar words

• またぐ (matagu) - Transport, cross (usually an object or obstacle).
• 越える (koeru) - Crossing (more general, can refer to overcoming limits, obstacles, or borders).
• 渡る (wataru) - Crossing (refers to the act of crossing something like a street, a river).
• 越す (kosu) - Surpass, go beyond (used to describe the action of going beyond a place or situation).
• 越境する (ekkyō suru) - Crossing borders (specifically refers to crossing geographical or cultural boundaries).

跨ぐ

Romaji: matagu
Kana: またぐ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to cross

Meaning in English: to straddle

Definition: Move between two things.

Example Sentences - (跨ぐ) matagu

See below some example sentences:

川を跨ぐ

Kawa wo matagu

It means "cross the river".

crossing the river

• 川 - means "river" in Japanese
• を - Direct Object Particle in Japanese
• 跨ぐ - verb meaning "to cross" or "to cross" in Japanese