Translation and Meaning of: ずらっと - zurato

If you are learning Japanese, you have probably come across the word ずらっと (zuratto). This expression is used to describe something that is impressively aligned or in large quantities. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Furthermore, we will see tips for memorizing it and its cultural context.

Meaning and use of ずらっと

ずらっと is an adverb that conveys the idea of something being arranged in a line, lined up, or in large quantities in an organized manner. It can be used for both objects and people, giving the sense of something well-aligned or numerous. For example, in stores, it is common to see shelves ずらっと filled with products.

An interesting feature of this word is that it carries a visual nuance. When a Japanese person says ずらっと並んでいる (zuratto narande iru), the image that comes to mind is one of something organized and well-distributed. This expression is often used in everyday contexts, such as supermarkets, bookstores, or even at public events.

Origin and curiosities about ずらっと

The word ずらっと has its origin in the verb ずらす (zurasu), which means "to shift" or "to move." Over time, the adverbial form ずらっと emerged to describe things that are arranged in a sequence, as if they have been intentionally aligned. It is an example of how the Japanese language transforms verbs into adverbs to express specific nuances.

A curiosity is that ずらっと is more common in spoken language than in formal writing. In academic texts or official documents, other expressions may be preferred. However, in animes, dramas, and everyday conversations, it appears frequently, reinforcing its colloquial and visual character.

How to memorize and use ずらっと correctly

To memorize ずらっと, a tip is to associate it with situations where you see things lined up, like books on a shelf or people in a queue. Repeating sentences like 本がずらっと並んでいる (the books are lined up) can help reinforce the meaning. Another strategy is to create flashcards with images that represent the idea of organization in large quantities.

It's important to remember that ずらっと should not be used to describe disorganized or scattered things. Its correct usage is always related to the notion of order and quantity. Try using it when describing scenes from your daily life, such as a row of cups or a sequence of dishes in a Japanese restaurant.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 並んでいる (Narandeiru) - To be aligned, in a row.
• ずらりと (Zurari to) - In line, arranged in a row.
• ずらりと並んでいる (Zurari to Narandeiru) - Being in line, aligned, arranged in an orderly manner.
• ずらりと並んだ (Zurari to Naranda) - Aligned in a row, arranged in an orderly manner (in the past).

ずらっと

Romaji: zurato
Kana: ずらっと
Type: adverb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: in one line; In a line

Meaning in English: in a line;in a row

Definition: The definition of "Zuratto" is to place things side by side and roll them one after the other.

Example Sentences - (ずらっと) zurato

See below some example sentences:

ずらっと並んでいる

Zuratto narande iru

They are lined up in a row.

is aligned

• ずらっと - adverb that indicates a queue or alignment of objects in a disordered manner
• 並んでいる - verb that indicates that objects are lined up in a row or sequence