Translation and Meaning of: 取り組む - torikumu

The Japanese word 取り組む (とりくむ) is a verb that carries a deep and practical meaning in everyday life in Japan. If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding how and when to use it can enrich your vocabulary and cultural understanding. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and most common uses of 取り組む, as well as tips for memorizing it correctly.

While many Japanese words have direct translations in Portuguese, 取り組む goes beyond a simple equivalence. It reflects a mindset of dedication and tackling challenges, something valued in Japanese society. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to explain not just the translation, but also the cultural context that makes this word so special.

The meaning and uses of 取り組む

取り組む is frequently translated as "to tackle," "to dedicate oneself to," or "to engage in." Unlike more generic verbs, it implies a continuous and focused effort on something challenging. For example, it can be used to describe someone who is working hard on an important project or studying for a difficult exam.

In the Japanese corporate environment, it is common to hear phrases like 新しいプロジェクトに取り組んでいる (I am working on a new project). This usage demonstrates not only action but also persistence. The word appears in academic, sports, and even personal contexts, always with this nuance of intense commitment.

The origin and structure of 取り組む

Etymologically, 取り組む is formed by the kanjis 取 (to take) and 組 (group, to unite), suggesting the idea of "grabbing something and working together." This composition reflects well the current meaning, as it involves both the initial action of facing a challenge and the ongoing process of dealing with it.

Interestingly, the verb did not always have the same meaning. During the Edo period, it was more associated with physical combat, such as in sumô. Over time, the meaning expanded to encompass any type of serious effort. This evolution shows how the Japanese language adapts words to reflect social changes.

Tips to memorize and use 取り組む

An effective way to internalize 取り組む is to associate it with situations that require prolonged effort. Think of tasks that you cannot solve quickly, such as learning a musical instrument or mastering complex software. These are perfect scenarios to apply the verb.

Another tip is to observe its use in Japanese dramas and animes, where it frequently appears in dialogues about overcoming challenges. Hearing the word in context helps internalize not only its meaning but also the correct intonation. Repeating phrases like 毎日日本語の勉強に取り組んでいます (I am dedicating myself to studying Japanese every day) can solidify the learning.

The cultural importance of 取り組む

In Japan, the concept behind 取り組む goes beyond language - it is a social value. The idea of persevering in the face of obstacles is rooted in philosophies like bushido and in the Japanese work ethic. Companies and schools often encourage this mindset, which explains the ubiquity of the term.

This verb also reflects how the Japanese view the process of continuous improvement (kaizen). It’s not just about starting something, but about maintaining constant engagement. Understanding this nuance can help Japanese learners use the word more authentically, getting closer to the way natives employ it in daily life.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 取り組む

• 取り組む - ます form --> form ending in "masu"
• 取り組みます - ます form present
• 取り組ませる - forma causativa
• 取り組まれる - forma passiva
• 取り組める - forma potencial

Synonyms and similar words

• 取り組み (torikumi) - Effort, undertaking, or project that one is involved in.
• 取りかかる (torikakaru) - Start doing something, begin a job.
• 取りかかり (torikakari) - The beginning or the approach to a task.
• 取り掛かる (torikakaru) - Start or begin working on something.
• 取り組みます (torikumimasu) - Polite way to say that you are getting involved in an effort.
• 取り組みましょう (torikumimashou) - Let's get involved in a joint effort or project.
• 取り組んで (torikunde) - Being involved or engaged in an activity.
• 取り組んでいる (torikunde iru) - Indicates that someone is currently engaged in an effort.
• 取り組んでいます (torikunde imasu) - Polite form that indicates someone is involved in a task.
• 取り組んでいる人 (torikunde iru hito) - Person involved in a project or effort.
• 取り組んでいる人たち (torikunde iru hitotachi) - Group of people engaged in an effort.
• 取り組んでいる方 (torikunde iru kata) - Person who is engaged in a project (respectful form).
• 取り組んでいる方々 (torikunde iru katagata) - Group of people in a similar situation, respectful.
• 取り組むこと (torikumu koto) - The act of engaging or getting involved in something.

取り組む

Romaji: torikumu
Kana: とりくむ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: confront; fight; to engage in a struggle

Meaning in English: to tackle;to wrestle with;to engage in a bout;to come to grips with

Definition: Face a specific task or problem seriously.

Example Sentences - (取り組む) torikumu

See below some example sentences:

熱意を持って取り組むことが成功の鍵です。

Netsui wo motte torikumu koto ga seikou no kagi desu

Working with enthusiasm is the key to success.

• 熱意 (netsui) - enthusiasm, passion
• を (wo) - object particle
• 持って (motte) - having, possessing
• 取り組む (torikumu) - address, deal with
• こと (koto) - Thing, fact
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 成功 (seikou) - success
• の (no) - Possession particle
• 鍵 (kagi) - key
• です (desu) - Verb "to be" in the present tense

真剣に取り組みましょう。

Majime ni torikumimashou

Let's approach this seriously.

Let's work seriously.

• 真剣に - adverb that means "seriously"
• 取り組み - Noun meaning "approach", "way of dealing with something"
• ましょう - auxiliary verb indicating future action, in this case, "we will do"

私の部門は新しいプロジェクトに取り組んでいます。

Watashi no bumon wa atarashii purojekuto ni torikunde imasu

My department is working on a new project.

• 私の部門 - "Watashi no bumon" means "my department" in Japanese.
• は - "wa" is a Japanese grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 新しい - "atarashii" means "new" in Japanese.
• プロジェクト - "purojekuto" is a word in Japanese that means "project".
• に - "ni" is a Japanese grammatical particle that indicates the direction or target of an action.
• 取り組んでいます - "torikundeimasu" is a verbal form in Japanese that means "we are working hard."