Translation and Meaning of: 高い - takai

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 高い (たかい - takai). It is common in everyday vocabulary and appears in various contexts, from informal conversations to more formal situations. In this article, we will explore its meaning, practical uses, and some interesting facts that can help you memorize it more easily.

In addition to being a fundamental word for those who want to communicate in Japanese, 高い also carries interesting cultural nuances. Is it used only for high prices? How do Japanese people use it in different situations? Let's answer these questions and show how this word fits into everyday life in Japan.

The meaning and uses of 高い

In its most basic form, 高い (takai) means "high" or "expensive." When used to describe physical objects, such as buildings or mountains, it indicates height. In economic contexts, it refers to high prices. This duality of meanings is common in many languages, but in Japanese, the context always makes clear which sense is being used.

An interesting detail is that 高い is not limited to material things. It can also describe abstract qualities, such as "high reputation" (評判が高い - hyouban ga takai) or "great expectation" (期待が高い - kitai ga takai). This versatility makes the word frequently appear in newspapers, conversations, and even in animes.

How to memorize 高い effectively

A useful technique to remember 高い is to associate it with concrete situations. For example, imagine yourself in Tokyo, looking at the SkyTree, the tallest tower in Japan. Mentally repeat "SkyTree wa takai desu" (The SkyTree is tall). This visual association helps to cement the meaning of "tall."

Another tip is to create flashcards with everyday sentences, such as "このりんごは高いですね" (kono ringo wa takai desu ne - These apples are expensive, aren't they?). According to research on language learning, the brain retains words better when they are placed in real contexts, rather than in isolation.

The cultural perception behind 高い

In Japan, where modesty is valued, using 高い to compliment someone can be delicate. Saying "あなたの能力は高い" (anata no nouryoku wa takai - Your ability is high) sounds like a compliment, but in certain work environments, a Japanese person may respond with humility, downplaying their own merits. This behavior reflects deep cultural values.

Interestingly, in shops and markets, it's common to hear customers saying "高い！" upon seeing prices, even if they aren't actually complaining. It's almost an automatic expression, like a social habit. Foreign tourists are sometimes surprised by this reaction, but it is part of the shopping dynamics in Japan.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

高価 (kouka) - High price, expensive
高額 (kougaku) - High value; large amount of money
高値 (takane) - High price; high value
高め (takame) - A bit high; relatively high
高級 (koukyuu) - High quality; luxurious
高度 (koudou) - High altitude; also used in contexts of complexity or sophistication
高貴 (kouki) - Noble; elevated in dignity or status
高尚 (koushou) - High in morality; of noble feelings
高嶺 (takane) - High peak; a high level or standard
高峰 (kouhou) - Peak; height or maximum point