Translation and Meaning of: 勝つ - katsu
The Japanese word 勝つ[かつ] is an essential verb for anyone learning the language, especially for those interested in competitions, sports, or even daily challenges. Its main meaning is "to win" or "to gain," but there are interesting nuances worth exploring. In this article, we will better understand how this word is used, its origin, and even tips for memorizing it effectively.
In addition to being a common word in everyday conversations, 勝つ also frequently appears in animes, manga, and games, making it even more relevant for Japanese learners. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese perceive the idea of victory or how this word is applied in different contexts, keep reading to discover all of this and much more.
Meaning and usage of 勝つ [かつ]
The verb 勝つ is mainly used to express victory in competitions, battles, or any type of confrontation. It can be applied in both sports situations and in personal discussions or challenges. For example, if someone wins a chess match, they can say "チェスに勝った" (chesu ni katta), which means "I won at chess."
However, its use is not limited to formal competitions. Japanese people also use 勝つ in broader contexts, such as overcoming difficulties or even resisting temptations. This versatility makes it a very useful word in the vocabulary of those studying Japanese.
Origin and writing of the kanji 勝
The kanji 勝 is composed of the radical for "meat" (月) and the component 朕, which was historically associated with something superior or elevated. This combination suggests the idea of overcoming, winning, or being above others. The etymology reinforces the sense of conquest and dominance, which is present in the current meaning of the word.
It's worth noting that 勝つ (katsu) is a group 1 (godan) verb, which means its conjugation follows a specific pattern. For example, in the past form, it becomes 勝った (katta), while in the negative form, it is 勝たない (katanai). Knowing these variations is essential for using the word correctly in different situations.
Tips for memorizing 勝つ
An effective way to memorize 勝つ is to associate it with competitive situations, such as games or sports. If you enjoy animes, you have probably heard characters saying phrases like "絶対に勝つ！" (zettai ni katsu!), which means "I will win for sure!". This type of expression helps to remember the word more naturally.
Another tip is to practice writing the kanji 勝, paying attention to its strokes and components. The radical 月 (meat) can be a starting point to remember that winning often requires physical effort, while the rest of the character reinforces the idea of superiority. Repeating the word in real contexts, such as in games or personal challenges, also helps with memorization.
Curiosities about 勝つ in Japanese culture
In Japan, the notion of victory is deeply tied to values such as discipline and perseverance. Therefore, 勝つ is not just about winning, but also about the effort to achieve a goal. This concept often appears in motivational speeches, sports training, and even in corporate environments.
Additionally, the word is widely used in popular expressions, such as 勝ち組 (kachigumi), which refers to successful people or "the winning team." This term reflects the importance that Japanese society places on competitiveness and merit. Knowing how to use 勝つ correctly can help better understand these cultural aspects.
Vocabulary
Expand your vocabulary with related words:
Synonyms and similar words
- 勝利する (shouri suru) - Achieve victory, triumph in a competition or situation.
- 勝ち取る (kachi toru) - To conquer or gain something through effort, usually in a competitive context.
- 優勝する (yuushou suru) - Winning a championship or tournament, emerging as the champion.
- 負かす (makasu) - Defeating someone in a competition or confrontation.
- 打ち勝つ (uchikatsu) - Overcoming or triumphing over an obstacle or adversity.
Related words
shinogu
overcome; endure; bear; prevent (rain); to avoid; to mark; endure; to challenge; to stand out; to eclipse
Romaji: katsu
Kana: かつ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4
Translation / Meaning: win
Meaning in English: to win
Definition: Defeat your opponent in a competition, game, etc.
Quick Access
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How to Write in Japanese - (勝つ) katsu
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (勝つ) katsu:
Example Sentences - (勝つ) katsu
See below some example sentences:
Seigi wa katsu
Justice will prevail.
Justice prevails.
- 正義 (seigi) - "justice"
- は (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case, "justice"
- 勝つ (katsu) - means "to win"
Senshu wa katsu tame ni renshū shinakereba narimasen
Athletes must train to win.
Players must practice to win.
- 選手 - player/athlete
- は - Topic particle
- 勝つ - win
- ために - for
- 練習 - train/practice
- しなければなりません - must/needs to do
Shinri wa tsuneni katsu
The truth always prevails.
The truth always prevails.
- 真理 (shinri) - truth
- は (wa) - Topic particle
- 常に (tsuneni) - always
- 勝つ (katsu) - to win, to gain
Kanojo wa watashi ni masutte iru
She is surpassing me.
She is above me.
- 彼女 (kanojo) - she
- は (wa) - Topic particle
- 私 (watashi) - I
- に (ni) - particle indicating the target of the action
- 勝っている (katteiru) - is winning
Katsu koto ga dekiru!
I can win!
You can win!
- 勝つ - Verb that means "to win"
- こと - Noun that means "thing"
- が - Particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
- できる - Verb that means "to be able to"
- ！ - Exclamation mark that indicates enthusiasm or emphasis
Iryoku ga aru buki wa kyouteki ni mo kateru
Uma arma com poder pode derrotar até mesmo inimigos fortes.
Powerful weapons can also defeat strong enemies.
- 威力がある (いりょくがある) - Powerful
- 武器 (ぶき) - Weapon
- は - Topic particle
- 強敵 (きょうてき) - Strong enemy
- にも - Particle that indicates inclusion
- 勝てる (かてる) - Win
Kachi wo mezashite ganbarimasu
I will strive to achieve victory.
I will do my best to win.
- 勝ち - victory
- を - object particle
- 目指して - aiming, looking
- 頑張ります - I will do my best, I will strive.
Shōhai wa toki ni unmei o kimeru
Victory is sometimes destiny.
- 勝敗 - victory or defeat
- は - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
- 時に - sometimes
- 運命 - destination
- を - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
- 決める - decide
Other Words of this Type: noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: noun
yurusu
to allow; authorize; to approve; exempt (from a fine); excuse (from); trust in; to forgive; absolve; apologize; release; leave it out.
