Translation and Meaning of: ずばり - zubari

If you have ever watched an anime or spoken with a Japanese person, you may have heard the word ずばり (zubari). But what does it mean exactly? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and uses of this versatile expression in everyday life in Japan. Additionally, we will understand how it is culturally perceived and in what contexts it appears most frequently.

ずばり is one of those words that doesn't have an exact translation in Portuguese, but carries a very specific meaning. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, you will find out here how to use it naturally. And if you want to deepen your knowledge, Suki Nihongo offers one of the best online dictionaries for detailed consultations.

The meaning and translation of ずばり

"ズバリ" is a word that conveys the idea of something said directly, without beating around the bush. It can be translated as "straight to the point," "frankly," or even "to be clear." It is often used when someone asks a question or makes a statement that gets straight to the point, without any sugarcoating.

A common example is when someone asks: "ずばり、どう思いますか？" (Zubari, dō omoimasu ka?), which means something like "Straight to the point, what do you think?". The word adds a tone of frankness to the question, indicating that the person wants a sincere and objective answer. This use is highly valued in certain Japanese contexts, where clarity may be more important than excessive politeness.

The origin and etymology of ずばり

The exact origin of ずばり is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated as an onomatopoeia that imitates the sound of something being cut cleanly and quickly. This association with a precise movement helps to understand why the word came to mean "to say something directly."

Some linguists point out that ずばり may be related to the verb ずばりと切る (zubari to kiru), which means "to cut something cleanly." This connection reinforces the idea that the word is linked to decisive and unhesitant actions. Over time, its use has expanded beyond the physical meaning, also coming to describe clear and objective communication.

The cultural use and frequency of ずばり

In Japan, ずばり is a relatively common word, especially in informal conversations and in the media. It frequently appears in TV shows, interviews, and even in manga, always with the intention of highlighting questions or answers that go straight to the main point. Its tone can vary from neutral to a bit more intense, depending on the context.

Culturally, the Japanese value indirect communication in many situations, but ずばり is used precisely when one wants to break this norm. For example, in professional discussions or debates, it can be employed to avoid misunderstandings and to speed up decision-making. However, in very formal or delicate contexts, its use may be considered rude, so it's good to exercise caution.

Tips for memorizing and using ずばり

If you want to incorporate ずばり into your Japanese vocabulary, a good tip is to associate it with situations where frankness is welcome. Think of moments when someone asks something like "What's the problem, straight to the point?" or "Let's get straight to the point." These are the ideal scenarios to use the word.

Another strategy is to observe its use in dialogues from doramas or animes, where it appears quite frequently. Repeating phrases like "ずばり教えてください" (Zubari oshiete kudasai – "Please, tell me directly") can help to fix the term in memory. Over time, you'll notice when and how to use it naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ズバリ (zubari) - Directly, clearly, without beating around the bush.
• 率直に言えば (sotsujoku ni ieba) - Speaking frankly, in a straightforward manner.
• 率直に言って (sotsujoku ni itte) - When speaking frankly, clearly.
• はっきり言って (hakkiri itte) - Speaking clearly, without ambiguity.
• はっきりと言えば (hakkiri to ieba) - If I say it clearly, to emphasize.
• 正直に言えば (shoujiki ni ieba) - Honestly speaking, without hiding anything.
• 正直に言って (shoujiki ni itte) - Saying it honestly, directly.

ずばり

Romaji: zubari
Kana: ずばり
Type: adverb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: decisively; decidedly; once and for all; Without reservation; quite frankly

Meaning in English: decisively;decidedly;once and for all;unreservedly;frankly

Definition: Well, here are brief definitions of some words: - Love: deep feelings, genuine care or affection for another person. - Home: A building or place where people live. - Happiness: A state of feeling joy or contentment. - Dream: An ideal event or situation that you imagine in your mind and that is unlikely to come true. - Knowledge: Knowing information or facts about something. Please let me know if there is any other word you would like to know.