Translation and Meaning of: 土俵 - dohyou

The word 「土俵」 (dohyou) is formed by two kanji: 「土」, which means "earth" or "soil", and 「俵」, which refers to "sack" or "mat". Together, they describe the circular platform of earth covered by a straw mat, used in sumo wrestling matches. This term captures the essence of the sumo arena, a place of tradition and competition, where contact with the ground symbolizes both the connection to ancestral culture and the physical and technical strength of the sport.

The dohyou has a rich origin in Japanese history, dating back to the Jomon period, when rituals and religious ceremonies already made use of designated combat spaces on the ground. This location became especially important during the Edo period, when sumo gained popularity and matches began to be followed as public events. The construction of the dohyou adheres to strict traditions, using natural materials and techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation, maintaining the symbolism and ritualistic integrity of the sport.

In the current context, 「土俵」 transcends sumo, being used metaphorically in other situations that involve disputes, dialogue, or competition. For example, in debates or negotiations, being in a 「どひょう」 suggests that the parties are in a "field" of equality or in a confrontation situation. This metaphor extends the use of the term to everyday life, connecting different aspects of Japanese culture. Furthermore, the word is a symbol of the balance between tradition and modernity in Japan, preserving authenticity while evolving to express new realities.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 土場 (Dobba) - Sand area, ground for activities like sumo.
• 相撲場 (Sumōba) - Specific location where sumo matches are held.
• 畳場 (Tatami-ba) - Area covered with mats, used for practices such as sumo.
• 畳俵 (Tatami-dawara) - Type of surface or space related to tatamis, usually associated with an area for martial arts activities.
• 畳場所 (Tatami-basho) - Specific location that uses tatami, which can be a combat area or a training room.

土俵

Romaji: dohyou
Kana: どひょう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: arena

Meaning in English: arena

Definition: The land area where sumo matches take place.

Example Sentences - (土俵) dohyou

See below some example sentences:

土俵に上がる

dobyo ni agaru

climb into the sumo ring.

go to the ring

• 土俵 - "sumo ring" means a circular arena where sumo wrestlers compete.
• に - a particle that indicates the location where the action takes place.
• 上がる - a verb that means "to ascend" or "to get on top of something". In this context, it means "to enter the sumo ring".