Translation and Meaning of: 単に - tanni

The Japanese word 単に (たんに) may seem simple at first glance, but its use in everyday life and in different contexts reveals interesting nuances. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding how this expression works can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical applications, as well as tips for memorizing it correctly.

The meaning and use of 単に

単に is an adverb that can generally be translated as "simply," "merely," or "just." It is used to emphasize that something does not go beyond what is being said, often minimizing the importance or complexity of an action or situation. For example, in a sentence like "単に興味があるだけです" (たんにきょうみがあるだけです), the translation would be "It's just out of curiosity."

The term frequently appears in everyday conversations and even in formal texts, but its use requires attention. Unlike other similar words, such as ただ (which can also mean "just"), 単に carries a more objective and straightforward tone, almost technical. Therefore, it is common to see it in explanations, justifications, or when someone wants to make it clear that there are no ulterior motives.

Origin and structure of the word

The word 単に is formed by the kanji 単 (which means "simple", "single", or "individual") followed by the adverbial particle に. The kanji itself has Chinese origins and is used in various other words, such as 単純 (たんじゅん – "simple") or 単位 (たんい – "unit"). This relationship helps to understand why 単に carries a sense of simplicity and objectivity.

It is worth noting that although the kanji 単 can be read in other ways (such as ひとえ in 単衣), the reading たんに is the most common when it appears as an adverb. This consistency makes learning easier, as there are no complicated variations in pronunciation to memorize.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to reinforce 単に is to associate it with situations where something is explained directly, without beating around the bush. For example, imagine someone saying that they did something "単に時間がなかったから" (たんにじかんがなかったから – "simply because I didn't have time"). This type of construction frequently appears in real dialogues, which helps internalize its usage.

Another tip is to pay attention to how the word appears in authentic materials, such as dramas, articles, or even song lyrics. Often, it comes up in contexts where there is a brief explanation or a justification without elaboration. By identifying these patterns, it becomes more natural to incorporate it into your own Japanese.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 単純に (Tanjun ni) - Simply, without complications.
• 単にして (Tan ni shite) - Simply, directly.
• 単に言えば (Tan ni ieba) - To put it simply, basically.
• 単にいうと (Tan ni iu to) - If I simply say, in summary.
• 単に言うと (Tan ni iu to) - Simply put, clearly.
• 単に言って (Tan ni itte) - Simply put, in a straightforward way.
• 単に考えると (Tan ni kangaeru to) - If we consider simply, in general terms.
• 単に考えれば (Tan ni kangaereba) - If we think simply, considering only that.
• 単に見ると (Tan ni miru to) - If observed simply, at first glance.
• 単に見れば (Tan ni mireba) - If you look at it simply, at first.
• 単に述べると (Tan ni noberu to) - If expressed in simple terms, in summary.
• 単に述べれば (Tan ni nobe reba) - If I simply declare it clearly.
• 単に述べて (Tan ni nobete) - Simply stated, in simple terms.
• 単に言っても (Tan ni itte mo) - Even if it simply says, directly.

単に

Romaji: tanni
Kana: たんに
Type: adverb
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: simply; just; just; just

Meaning in English: simply;merely;only;solely

Definition: Has a simple form and easy-to-understand characteristics.

Example Sentences - (単に) tanni

See below some example sentences:

このシールは簡単に付く。

Kono shiiru wa kantan ni tsuku

This sticker sticks easily.

This sticker is easily attached.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this" or "this here"
• シール - noun meaning "sticker" or "label"
• は - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 簡単に - adverb meaning "easily" or "simply"
• 付く - verb meaning "to adhere" or "to stick"