Translation and Meaning of: 土曜 - doyou

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 土曜 (どよう). It is part of the everyday vocabulary in Japan and is directly related to the organization of the week. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in daily life. Additionally, we will look at some cultural curiosities and tips for efficiently memorizing this word.

土曜 is an essential term for those who want to understand how the Japanese refer to the days of the week. Whether to schedule appointments, plan trips, or simply chat, knowing its correct usage is fundamental. Here at Suki Nihongo, you will find the best explanations to truly master Japanese.

The meaning and origin of 土曜

The word 土曜 means "Saturday" in Japanese. It is composed of two kanji: 土 (do), which represents "earth" or "soil," and 曜 (you), which means "day of the week." This combination follows an ancient pattern based on Chinese astrology, where each day was associated with a celestial element. In the case of Saturday, the element is Earth (土).

This system was introduced in Japan during the Nara period (710-794) and remains to this day. Unlike other languages that name the days of the week with references to gods or planets, Japanese has maintained this more abstract structure. This makes 土曜 a purely functional word, without mythological connotations.

How 土曜 is used in everyday life

In Japan, 土曜 is widely used in formal and informal contexts. You will find it in calendars, schedules, TV programs, and even on signs of businesses. For example, many restaurants have a "Saturday menu" (土曜メニュー) or special hours on that day.

An interesting detail is that 土曜日 (doyoubi), with the suffix 日 (bi), is also common. Although both terms mean "Saturday," 土曜日 is slightly more formal and often appears in official documents. On the other hand, 土曜 sounds more colloquial and is preferred in everyday conversations.

Trivia and tips for memorization

An effective way to remember that 土曜 means "Saturday" is to associate the kanji 土 (earth) with rest. In many cultures, Saturday is a day to relax and "keep your feet on the ground." Additionally, the pronunciation "doyou" can be linked to the idea of "two days before the weekend" in some areas.

In Japan, Saturday has a special significance for families and workers. Many companies close early on this day, and it's common to see people taking the opportunity to go out for a stroll or shopping. If you are visiting the country, you will notice that shopping malls and tourist attractions become busier on Saturdays.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

  • 土曜日 (Doyou) - Saturday

Related words

水曜

suiyou

Wednesday

土曜

Romaji: doyou
Kana: どよう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: Saturday

Meaning in English: Saturday

Definition: Saturday: Last day of the week, first day of the weekend.

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How to Write in Japanese - (土曜) doyou

See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (土曜) doyou:

Example Sentences - (土曜) doyou

See below some example sentences:

土曜日は休みです。

Doyōbi wa yasumi desu

Saturday is a day off.

It is closed on Saturday.

  • 土曜日 - Saturday
  • は - Topic particle
  • 休み - rest, time off
  • です - Verb to be/estar in the present

Other Words of this Type: noun

See other words from our dictionary that are also: noun

土曜