Translation and Meaning of: 修理 - shuuri

The Japanese word 修理 [しゅうり] is a very useful term in everyday life, especially for those who need to deal with repairs and fixes. Whether it's about fixing a household appliance or even solving a more complex problem, this word frequently appears in daily conversations. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in the Japanese language, as well as provide practical examples to facilitate learning.

In addition to being a common word, 修理 plays an important role in both formal and informal situations, making it essential for language learners. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese talk about repairs or how to memorize this term efficiently, keep reading to discover all this and a bit more.

Meaning and use of 修理 in Japanese

修理 means "repair" and is used to describe the action of fixing something that is broken or defective. It can be applied to objects such as electronics, furniture, cars, and even larger structures like buildings. The word consists of the kanji 修 (shū), which refers to "correcting" or "improving," and 理 (ri), which is related to "logic" or "principle." Together, they convey the idea of restoring something to its original state.

In everyday life, it is common to hear phrases like 「自転車を修理する」 (jitensha o shūri suru – to repair a bicycle) or 「修理に出しました」 (shūri ni dashimashita – I took it for repair). The term also appears in specialized establishments, such as mechanical workshops and electronics repair shops, reinforcing its practical utility.

Origin and components of the kanjis 修理

The origin of 修理 dates back to classical Chinese, where the kanjis were already used with similar meanings. The kanji 修 appears in words like 修正 (shūsei – correction) and 修復 (shūfuku – restoration), always with the notion of adjustment or improvement. On the other hand, 理 is found in terms like 理論 (riron – theory) and 管理 (kanri – management), indicating a logical or systematic basis.

It is worth noting that, although 修理 is a common word, it is not used to describe temporary or makeshift repairs. In Japan, there is a cultural distinction between fixing something permanently (修理) and just "making do" (which would be closer to 直す – naosu). This difference reflects the appreciation for precision and durability in Japanese culture.

Tips for memorizing and using 修理 correctly

An effective way to remember 修理 is to associate it with practical situations, such as imagining a sign saying "修理中" (shūri-chū – under repair) in a store or hearing the term in animes and dramas that feature characters working in workshops. Another tip is to create flashcards with example sentences, such as 「スマホの修理にいく」 (sumaho no shūri ni iku – I’m going to repair the smartphone), to reinforce the context.

Moreover, it is important to note that 修理 is a noun, but it can be transformed into a verb with the addition of する (suru – to do). This flexibility makes it easier to use in different grammatical constructions. Being a neutral word, it can appear in both casual conversations and professional settings, as long as it is used appropriately.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 直し (naoshi) - Correction, repair, adjustment
• 修繕 (shūzen) - Repair, fixing, usually referring to structures or objects
• 修復 (shūfuku) - Restoration, usually used in artistic or historical contexts
• リペア (ripea) - Repair, an English term used in Japan to indicate general repairs.

修理

Romaji: shuuri
Kana: しゅうり
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: repairing; to repair

Meaning in English: repairing;mending

Definition: To restore things to their original condition and make them usable again.

Example Sentences - (修理) shuuri

See below some example sentences:

この機械は壊れる前に修理しなければならない。

Kono kikai wa kowareru mae ni shūri shinakereba naranai

This machine needs to be repaired before breaking.

This machine must be repaired before it breaks down.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this"
• 機械 - noun meaning "machine"
• は - topic particle indicating that the subject of the sentence is "this machine"
• 壊れる - verb meaning "to break" or "to spoil"
• 前に - expression meaning "before"
• 修理 - noun meaning "repair" or "mending"
• しなければならない - an expression that indicates an obligation or need to do something, in this case, "it must be fixed"

修理が必要です。

Shuuri ga hitsuyou desu

I need repairs.

Repair is required.

• 修理 (shuuri) - repair, fix
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 必要 (hitsuyou) - necessary
• です (desu) - Verb to be/estar in the present