Translation and Meaning of: 好む - konomu

The Japanese word 好む[このむ] is a verb that carries interesting nuances about personal preferences and likes. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its meaning, origin, and usage can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore everything from the composition of the kanji to everyday situations in which this word appears, as well as curiosities about its application in Japanese culture.

Finding the exact translation of 好む can be a challenge, as it goes beyond just "to like." Here, you will discover how to use it correctly in sentences, its frequency in conversations, and even tips for memorizing it without confusion. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides detailed information to assist in this process.

Meaning and use of 好む

The verb 好む expresses a preference or inclination towards something, often with a more formal or literary tone than the simple 好き[すき]. While 好き is widely used in everyday conversation, 好む appears more frequently in written texts or careful speeches. For example, it can be used to describe artistic tastes, habits, or even philosophical choices.

An important characteristic is that 好む usually indicates an active preference, not just a passive one. When someone says 紅茶を好む[こうちゃをこのむ], they are asserting a conscious tendency to choose black tea, rather than simply indicating that they like it. This detail makes all the difference in communication and helps to avoid misunderstandings.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 好 is composed of two elements: 女[おんな] (woman) and 子[こ] (child). This combination suggests a relationship of affection, like a mother caring for her child. The etymology reflects the idea of something that is appreciated or valued, a concept that remains today in the use of the word.

It is worth noting that 好む is the kun'yomi (Japanese) reading of the kanji, while the on'yomi (Chinese) reading is コウ[こう], as in 好意[こうい] (goodwill). This duality is common in many kanji and understanding this difference can aid in memorization. The radical 女 appears in other characters related to emotions or human relationships, which makes it easier to associate it with concepts such as preference and taste.

Tips for memorizing and using 好む

An effective way to fixate on 好む is to associate it with situations where there is a deliberate choice. Think of sentences like 彼は静かな場所を好む[かれはしずかなばしょをこのむ] ("He prefers quiet places"), which show an active selection. Creating personal examples with your own preferences also helps to internalize the verb.

Another tip is to observe the use of 好む in authentic materials, such as articles or more formal TV programs. Unlike 好き, which is almost ubiquitous, 好む appears in specific contexts. Noticing this difference in register will enhance your ability to use it at the right moment, without sounding artificial or exaggerated.

Cultural curiosities about 好む

In Japan, the act of expressing preferences can be more subtle than in other cultures. While in the West it is common to openly declare likes, the Japanese often use 好む to indicate choices without imposing them on others. This nuance reflects values such as harmony and consideration for the group.

In traditional contexts, such as tea ceremonies or floral arrangements, 好む appears to describe styles or schools favored by masters. It is not just about personal preference but a bond cultivated over time. This depth is one of the richest aspects of the term and demonstrates how the Japanese language captures unique cultural nuances.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 好む

• 好む - Positive present
• 好みません - negative gift
• 好みました - Positive past
• 好まなかった - Negative past
• 好みます - Polite form positive present

Synonyms and similar words

• 好きである (suki de aru) - to have a taste for something
• 愛する (aisuru) - to love deeply
• 好意を持つ (koui wo motsu) - to have a good will or affection
• 好む (konomu) - prefer or like actively
• 気に入る (ki ni iru) - to like something in particular or to feel satisfied with
• 好く (suku) - to like or to have affection (more archaic format)
• 好きだ (suki da) - to like (direct affirmation)
• 好きになる (suki ni naru) - to start liking something or someone
• 気にかける (ki ni kakeru) - to care about or be considerate of someone
• 好意を抱く (koui wo daku) - to nurture good intentions or affection for someone

好む

Romaji: konomu
Kana: このむ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: like; prefer

Meaning in English: to like;to prefer

Definition: Choosing this object over others to obtain satisfaction.

Example Sentences - (好む) konomu

See below some example sentences:

私は甘いものを好みます。

Watashi wa amai mono o konomimasu

I prefer sweet things.

I like candies.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case, "I"
• 甘い (amai) - Adjective that means "sweet"
• もの (mono) - noun that means "thing"
• を (wo) - particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence, in this case, "thing"
• 好みます (konomimasu) - verb that means "to like"