Translation and Meaning of: 鋏 - hasami

The Japanese word 鋏 (はさみ, hasami) is a common term that represents an object found in almost every home: scissors. But does this simple utensil hide deeper meanings in the Japanese language and culture? In this article, we will explore everything from its basic meaning to curiosities about its use, writing, and even tips for memorizing the kanji. If you are learning Japanese or are just interested in the language, understanding words like this can be an important step.

In addition to being a practical object, scissors (はさみ) have an interesting role in Japan, appearing in expressions and even in artistic contexts. Let's unveil how this word is used in everyday life, its origin, and even how to differentiate it from similar terms. Here at Suki Nihongo, we strive to provide accurate and useful information for those who want to truly master Japanese.

The meaning and writing of 鋏 (はさみ)

The word 鋏 (はさみ) specifically refers to scissors, whether they are for household, craft, or professional use. The kanji 鋏 is composed of the metal radical (金) combined with 夾, which suggests the idea of "squeezing" or "holding." This combination makes sense, as scissors are metal tools that operate through pressure.

It is worth noting that, although the kanji exists, many Japanese people write はさみ in hiragana in everyday life, especially in informal contexts. This happens with various words whose kanjis are considered complex or less commonly used. If you are just starting to learn Japanese, you can choose to write in hiragana without any issues, but recognizing the kanji is useful for reading more formal texts.

The use of はさみ in Japanese culture and daily life.

In Japan, scissors are not just tools, but they also hold significance in areas such as origami and ikebana (flower arrangement). Artisans who work with paper or fabric often have hasami specific to each material, highlighting the importance of the object in the precision of these traditional arts.

An interesting curiosity is that, unlike some Western countries, there are no common superstitions about scissors in Japan. While in Brazil some avoid opening scissors without cutting something due to superstition, in Japan the object is viewed more practically. This reflects a culture that values tools for their actual use, without attributing mystical meanings to them.

How to memorize and use 鋏 (はさみ) correctly

For those learning Japanese, a tip to memorize the kanji 鋏 is to associate its metal radical (金) with the material of the scissors, while the right part (夾) can remind you of two blades coming together. This visual association helps reinforce the writing. As for the pronunciation, "hasami" is a straightforward word without complex tones, making it easier for students.

When using the word, remember that はさみ is a common noun and does not have derived verb forms. If you want to say "cut with scissors," use the verb 切る (きる, kiru) accompanied by はさみで. For example: はさみで紙を切る (cut paper with scissors). Avoid confusing it with similar words like ナイフ (knife) or カッター (cutter), which have different uses.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ハサミ (hasami) - Scissors (used in broader contexts)
• はさみ (hasami) - はさみ (hasami)
• シザーズ (shizāzu) - Scissors (the term most commonly used in English, often in specific contexts such as hairstyling)

鋏

Romaji: hasami
Kana: はさみ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: scissors

Meaning in English: scissors

Definition: A sharp blade. Or a tool for cutting fabric, paper, etc.

Example Sentences - (鋏) hasami

See below some example sentences:

鋏を使って紙を切ります。

Hagane o tsukatte kami o kirimasu

I cut the paper with scissors.

Cut the paper using scissors.

• 鋏 (hasami) - scissors
• を (wo) - Particle indicating the direct object of the action.
• 使って (tsukatte) - using
• 紙 (kami) - paper
• を (wo) - Particle indicating the direct object of the action.
• 切ります (kirimasu) - cut