Translation and Meaning of: 丸い - marui

The Japanese word 「丸い」 (marui) is an adjective that means "round" or "circular." This word is often used to describe shapes that have no angles or edges, such as a ball or a ring. It is also common in descriptions of everyday objects, like plates and full moons. The word has a visual character, often evoking a sense of wholeness and perfection, which is associated with the symmetry of circular figures.

Etymologically, 「丸い」 derives from the kanji 「丸」 (maru), which is a noun and can be translated as "circle" or "sphere". The ending 「い」 indicates that the word is an i-adjective, one of the two forms of adjectives in Japanese. The kanji 「丸」 is composed of the radical 「丶」 (ten) and the phonetic part 「九」 (kyuu), which together form the symbol for circularity. This demonstrates how the concept of circularity is rooted in the language and writing of Japanese.

In addition to describing geometric shapes, "marui" can also be used in metaphorical or abstract contexts. For example, it can refer to something complete or harmonious, suggesting an absence of edges or conflicts. In some regions of Japan, the word can be used to describe friendly and welcoming expressions or faces. This is due to the idea that circular shapes are softer and more appealing than angular shapes.

Cultural variations and uses

「丸」 (Maru): Used for circles, but also found in contexts as an indication of something correct or appropriately completed, similar to a "confirmation" check mark.
「丸み」 (Marumi): Noun that can denote something that has roundness or softness, like the curve of a hill or the surface of an object.
"丸ごと" (Marugoto): A word that means "whole" or "to complete," used to describe when something is done without taking away parts or divisions.

In Japanese culture, the round shape often symbolizes harmony and balance. This symbolism appears both in art and philosophy. Round objects are often associated with good luck and the cycle of nature, reflecting the importance of harmonious balance in daily life. Thus, 「丸い」 (marui) encapsulates this cultural appreciation for forms that promote unity and continuity.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

円形の (Enkei no) - Circular shape, generally used to describe objects that are round.
丸形の (Maru kata no) - Round shape, often used to emphasize physical form.
丸っこい (Marukkoi) - Roundy generally suggests a cute or friendly appearance.
丸っぽい (Maruppoi) - It has a round aspect, it can be used in a more vague way in design.
丸みを帯びた (Marumi o obita) - With rounded contours, it refers to an object that has curved shapes.
丸くなった (Maruku natta) - It has become round, indicating a change to a round shape.
丸くなる (Maruku naru) - Become round, the process of transformation into a circular shape.
丸く切る (Maruku kiru) - Cut into a round shape, used in cooking or crafts.
丸く描く (Maruku kaku) - Drawing in a round shape, applicable in art and design.
丸くなっている (Maruku natte iru) - It is round, emphasizing the current state of an object.
丸くなっていた (Maruku natte ita) - It was round, referring to the previous state of an object.
丸くなりました (Maruku narimashita) - It has become round (formal), often used in formal or educational contexts.