Translation and Meaning of: 其れ - sore

The Japanese word 其れ[それ] is one of the most fundamental and versatile terms in the language, appearing frequently in both everyday conversations and formal texts. If you are studying Japanese, understanding its meaning, usage, and nuances can be a significant step towards mastering basic communication. In this article, we will explore everything from the direct translation to the cultural contexts in which it arises, as well as tips for memorizing its correct usage.

As a demonstrative pronoun, 其れ refers to objects or situations close to the listener, but it also carries particularities that can confuse beginners. Its use goes beyond the basic "that" and connects with common expressions in daily life. Here, we will uncover how it works in practice and why it is so essential in Japanese vocabulary.

Meaning and translation of 其れ[それ]

In its simplest form, 其れ[それ] is translated as "that" or "it," indicating something that is close to the person being spoken to but not necessarily to the speaker. Unlike これ (kore), which points to objects close to the speaker, and あれ (are), used for things distant from both, それ occupies an intermediate space in the logic of Japanese demonstrative pronouns.

It is worth noting that, although it seems basic, the precise use of それ requires attention to the context. In dialogues, it can refer to something previously mentioned or to an object visible to the listener. This flexibility makes it indispensable in natural conversations, but it also requires practice to avoid mistakes when pointing to the correct referent.

Origin and writing of the kanji 其れ

The kanji 其 (ki/gono/sono) is an ancient character, originally used in classical China with the meaning of "that" or "your." In Japanese writing, it appears more frequently in compositions or formal terms, while the hiragana form (それ) is the most common in everyday use. Interestingly, this kanji also makes up words like 其の (sono), another widely used demonstrative.

Despite its historical origin, the kanji version of 其れ is rarely seen in modern texts, except in literary contexts or fixed expressions. For students, focusing on hiragana is more practical, as the pronunciation "sore" follows the basic phonetic rules of Japanese, without relevant dialectal variations.

Cultural use and frequency in Japanese

The word それ (sore) is one of the most frequently used in the Japanese language, appearing in virtually any type of interaction. From quick responses like "それです！" (sore desu! – "That's it!") to questions such as "それは何？" (sore wa nan? – "What is that?"), its presence is constant. This high usage makes it one of the first words learned by foreigners.

Culturally, それ also appears in expressions that reflect Japan's typical indirect communication. Phrases like "それでいいです" (sore de ii desu – "That's fine") demonstrate a polite acceptance, often avoiding confrontations. Understanding these nuances helps to realize how the Japanese use pronouns to maintain social harmony, softening assertions or refusals.

Tips for memorizing and practicing

An effective way to reinforce the use of それ is to associate it with concrete situations. Imagine pointing to an object near a friend and asking "それは誰の？" (sore wa dare no? – "Whose is this?"). Mentally repeating this type of scene creates practical connections that facilitate memorization. Anki or flashcards with real examples are also useful for training immediate recognition.

Another tip is to pay attention to dialogues in animes or dramas, where それ appears constantly. Everyday series, such as "Shirokuma Café" or "Terrace House," are great for observing its natural use. By hearing the word in context, it becomes easier to absorb not only its meaning but also the intonation and the appropriate moment to use it.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• それ (sore) - This (something close to the listener)
• あれ (are) - That (something distant from both)
• どれ (dore) - Which (used to ask about options among several)

其れ

Romaji: sore
Kana: それ
Type: demonstrative pronoun
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1, jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: this that

Meaning in English: it;that

Definition: It: A word that refers to a specific thing or topic. que.

Example Sentences - (其れ) sore

See below some example sentences:

其れ共に未来を築こう。

Sore tomo ni mirai o kizukou.

Let's build the future together.

How about we create the future together?

• 其れ共に (それともに) - together
• 未来 (みらい) - future
• 築こう (きずこう) - build, create

その本は其れが好きです。

sono hon wa sore ga suki desu

I like that book.

I like this book.

• その - demonstrative pronoun meaning "that"
• 本 - noun meaning "book"
• は - topic particle that indicates that "this book" is the subject of the sentence
• 其れ - demonstrative pronoun that means "this"
• が - subject particle that indicates that "this" is the subject of the sentence
• 好き - The adjective that means "to like" is "gostoso" or "agradável."
• です - auxiliary verb that indicates the present tense and formality of the sentence