Translation and Meaning of: 固める - katameru

The Japanese word 固める (かためる, katameru) is a verb that carries both concrete and abstract meanings, reflecting the richness of the Japanese language. If you are looking to understand its meaning, translation, or how to use it in everyday life, this article will explore everything from its origin to practical examples. Moreover, we will unveil how this word is culturally perceived in Japan, its frequency of use, and tips for efficiently memorizing it.

Meaning and Translation of 固める

固める (かためる) can be translated as "to harden," "to solidify," or "to fix," depending on the context. In the literal sense, it describes the action of making something physical more rigid, like cement that sets or ice that forms. In a figurative sense, it can mean consolidating a decision, strengthening a relationship, or even concentrating efforts on a goal.

A common example is its use in expressions like 決意を固める (けついをかためる, ketsui wo katameru), which means "to firm up a decision." This flexibility makes the word useful in both everyday conversations and more serious discussions, illustrating how Japanese can combine precision and expressiveness.

Origin and Cultural Use

The etymology of 固める dates back to the kanji 固, which means "hard" or "firm," combined with the verbal suffix める. This kanji is composed of the radical 囗 (which represents a boundary) and 古 (old), suggesting the idea of something that remains unchanged over time. This construction well reflects the dual meaning of the word: both physical solidity and emotional stability.

In Japan, 固める is often used in contexts that value perseverance and determination. For example, in martial arts, one might say 姿勢を固める (しせいをかためる, shisei wo katameru) to indicate strengthening one’s posture. This connection with cultural values such as discipline and resilience helps explain why the word is so prevalent in the language.

Tips for Memorizing and Using 固める

An effective way to memorize 固める is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of something that needs to be "hardened," like a cake batter or an important decision. Creating your own sentences, such as 計画を固める (けいかくをかためる, keikaku wo katameru – "solidify a plan"), also helps to reinforce the vocabulary.

Another tip is to observe its usage in animes and dramas, where the word appears frequently in dialogues about overcoming challenges or preparation. As it is a Type 2 verb (ichidan), its conjugation follows regular patterns, making it easier to learn. How about practicing with Suki Nihongo, the best Japanese dictionary for real examples?

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 固める

• 固める - dictionary form
• 固められる - passive form
• 固めよう - potential form
• 固めます - polite form
• 固めなさい - imperative form
• 固めれば conditional form

Synonyms and similar words

• 固くする (kataku suru) - Harden, make firm.
• 強固にする (kyouko ni suru) - Make something strong or solid, reinforce.
• 固まる (katamaru) - To solidify, to become firm.
• 凝固する (gyouko suru) - Solidify, transition from the liquid state to the solid state, usually in a physical or chemical context.
• 固定する (kotei suru) - Fix, to establish something in a stable state or position.

固める

Romaji: katameru
Kana: かためる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: toughen up; Freeze; fortify

Meaning in English: to harden;to freeze;to fortify

Definition: To make something solid.

Example Sentences - (固める) katameru

See below some example sentences:

基礎を固めることが大切です。

Kiso wo katameru koto ga taisetsu desu

It is important to solidify the foundations.

It is important to solidify the foundation.

• 基礎 - means "foundation" or "base".
• を - object particle.
• 固める - verb meaning "to strengthen" or "to solidify".
• こと - Noun meaning "thing" or "fact".
• が - Subject particle.
• 大切 - Adjective that means "important" or "valuable".
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form.

私は餃子を固めるのが得意です。

Watashi wa gyoza wo katameru no ga tokui desu

I am good at making Gyoza very firm.

I am good at hardening Gyoza.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 餃子 (gyouza) - word meaning "guioza", a type of Japanese food
• を (wo) - direct object particle indicating the object of the action
• 固める (katameru) - verb meaning "to squeeze" or "to compact"
• の (no) - possession particle indicating that the skill described belongs to the subject of the sentence
• が (ga) - subject particle indicating that the subject is the one who possesses the skill described
• 得意 (tokui) - adjective meaning "good at" or "skilled at"
• です (desu) - linking verb indicating that the sentence is in the present tense and is affirmative