Translation and Meaning of: 軽い - karui

The Japanese word 軽い (かるい, karui) is a common term in everyday vocabulary, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding how and when to use this expression can enrich your communication. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of 軽い, as well as tips for memorizing and applying it correctly.

Many Japanese students have encountered 軽い in various contexts, from physical descriptions to emotional expressions. In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you can find clear examples of how this word fits into different situations. Here, we will deepen your understanding so that you can use it with confidence, whether in conversations or studies.

Meaning and translation of 軽い

軽い is often translated as "light," but its meaning can vary depending on the context. When used for objects, it refers to something with little weight, like a suitcase or a coat. In more abstract situations, it can describe an easy task, a gentle touch, or even a fleeting emotional state.

Another interesting use of 軽い is in expressions like 軽い気持ち (karui kimochi), which means "without thinking too much" or "in a nonchalant way." This versatility makes the word appear in everyday conversations, anime, and even in song lyrics. Mastering its different meanings is essential for those who want to sound natural when speaking Japanese.

Origin and writing of the kanji 軽

The kanji 軽 is composed of the radical 車 (kuruma, "car") and the phonetic part 巠 (kei), which aids in pronunciation. This combination suggests a relation to light or easy-to-move vehicles. Historically, the character was used to describe carriages that didn't require much strength to transport, reinforcing the idea of lightness.

It is worth noting that 軽い is an i-adjective, following the standard conjugation of these words in Japanese. Its opposite, 重い (omoi, "heavy"), shares the same grammatical structure, which makes learning easier when studied together. Noticing these patterns helps to memorize not only the vocabulary but also the rules of the language.

How to use 軽い in daily life

One of the most common ways to use 軽い is in physical descriptions. For example, by saying この荷物は軽い (kono nimotsu wa karui), you are stating that "this luggage is light." In restaurants, dishes with few calories can be referred to as 軽い食事 (karui shokuji), indicating a light or unsubstantial meal.

In the entertainment world, 軽い frequently appears in reviews or recommendations. A "light reading" movie or book can be described as 軽い内容 (karui naiyou). Even in interpersonal relationships, the word arises to characterize casual conversations or commitments without much formality, showing how it is rooted in Japanese communication.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 軽量 (Keiryō) - Lightweight
• 軽快 (Keikai) - Light and cheerful
• 軽薄 (Keihaku) - Superficial and frivolous
• 軽妙 (Keimyō) - Light and witty
• 軽妙洒脱 (Keimyōshadatsu) - Witty and elegant
• 軽妙無比 (Keimyōmuhi) - Unequivocal in lightness and grace

軽い

Romaji: karui
Kana: かるい
Type: adjective
L: jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: light; not serious; smaller

Meaning in English: light;non-serious;minor

Definition: Take it seriously. Also, things should be casual.

Example Sentences - (軽い) karui

See below some example sentences:

この荷物は軽いです。

Kono nimotsu wa karui desu

This luggage is light.

This luggage is light.

• この - indicates proximity, in this case, "this"
• 荷物 - means "luggage"
• は - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case, "about"
• 軽い - adjective meaning "light"
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form