Translation and Meaning of: 連れ - tsure

The Japanese word 連れ[つれ] is a versatile term that frequently appears in everyday life and culture in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its meaning, usage, and nuances can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic translation to the cultural contexts in which this word stands out, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

Meaning and translation of 連れ

Tsure [つれ] can be translated as "companion" or "person who accompanies." It is used to refer to someone who is together in an activity, trip, or event. For example, if you go to a restaurant with a friend, he is your つれ. The word carries an informal and everyday tone, being common in daily conversations.

It is worth noting that 連れ is not limited to people. In some contexts, it can indicate objects or animals that accompany someone, although this usage is less common. The flexibility of the term makes it useful in various situations, from casual meetings to more specific descriptions.

Origin and writing in kanji

The kanji 連 means "to connect" or "to link," while れ is a particle that helps form nouns. Together, they convey the idea of something or someone that is linked to another. This composition reflects well the meaning of the word, as つれ always implies a relationship of companionship.

Although kanji is the most common, つれ can also be written only in hiragana, especially in informal contexts or when the writer wants to simplify the message. This duality in writing is common in many Japanese words and does not change the meaning.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, 連れ is a word frequently used to describe social situations. It appears in conversations about outings, group trips, or even in public notices, such as "連れ込み禁止" (no accompanying persons allowed). Its colloquial tone makes it ideal for everyday dialogues, but it rarely appears in formal texts.

An interesting curiosity is that 連れ sometimes takes on a deeper meaning in cultural contexts. For example, in traditional festivals, the word can be used to describe groups that share a joint experience, reinforcing social bonds. This aspect reflects the Japanese appreciation for harmony and the collective.

Tips for memorizing 連れ

An effective way to solidify 連れ is to associate it with real-life situations. Think of moments when you went out with friends or family and try to use the word mentally. Phrases like "Are you bringing someone to the movies today?" help internalize the term.

Another tip is to observe the kanji 連. Its radical 車 (car) can serve as a visual cue, since cars often transport people together. This association, while not etymologically accurate, can help with memorization for beginner students.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 仲間 (nakama) - Partner, friend
• 仲間入り (nakama iri) - To be integrated as a member of a group
• 同伴 (douhan) - Accompaniment, being with someone
• 連れ合い (tsureai) - Spouse, partner
• 連れ出し (tsuredashi) - Take someone outside
• 連れ去り (tsuresari) - To lift or kidnap someone
• 連れ去る (tsuresaru) - Take away (referring to another person)
• 連れ帰る (tsurekaeru) - Take someone back home
• 連れて行く (tsurete iku) - Take someone to a place
• 連れて来る (tsurete kuru) - Bring someone to a place
• 連れて行くこと (tsurete iku koto) - The act of taking someone to a place
• 連れて来ること (tsurete kuru koto) - The action of bringing someone to a place

連れ

Romaji: tsure
Kana: つれ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: Partner; company

Meaning in English: companion;company

Definition: to go together. Or someone to go with.

Example Sentences - (連れ) tsure

See below some example sentences:

私は友達を連れて行きます。

Watashi wa tomodachi o tsurete ikimasu

I will take my friend together.

I take my friends.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 友達 (tomodachi) - noun meaning "friend"
• を (wo) - grammatical particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence
• 連れて行きます (tsurete ikimasu) - verb meaning "to take along" or "to accompany", conjugated in the present/future polite tense