Translation and Meaning of: 害する - gaisuru

The Japanese word 害する [がいする] is a verb that carries a strong and specific meaning. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about less common terms, understanding its usage and context can be essential. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and how this word is applied in daily life, as well as tips for memorizing it correctly. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides detailed information for those who want to master vocabularies like this.

Meaning and use of 害する

害する means "to harm," "to cause damage," or "to negatively affect." Unlike more generic words like 傷つける (to hurt), 害する has a more formal tone and is often used in serious contexts, such as discussions about health, the environment, or social relations. For example, it may appear in news about pollution that "harms public health" (公衆衛生を害する).

Although it is not an extremely common verb in everyday life, its use appears in academic texts, official documents, and reports. Precisely because it has a more serious connotation, it is rare to see it in casual conversations. However, if you are reading an article about environmental impacts or legislation, it is quite possible that you will come across this word.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 害 is composed of the radical 宀 (roof) and 口 (mouth), but its origin is not directly linked to these elements. In the Kangorin dictionary, its etymology refers to the idea of "cutting" or "damage," reinforcing the sense of harm. This same kanji appears in other words such as 害虫 (harmful insect) or 害悪 (maleficence), always maintaining the notion of something harmful.

It is worth noting that 害する is the verbal form derived from this kanji, following the common structure of noun + する to create verbs. This pattern is useful for recognizing other similar terms, such as 勉強する (to study) or 旅行する (to travel). If you already know the kanji 害, it becomes easier to associate it with the corresponding verb.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 害する is to relate it to concrete situations where damage is evident. Think of sentences like "smoking harms health" (喫煙は健康を害する) or "pollution affects the ecosystem" (汚染は生態系を害する). Contexts like these help to remember not only the meaning but also the gravity of the term.

Another tip is to note that 害する is rarely used for light matters. Saying that someone "hurt your mood" would be more natural with 気分を悪くさせる, for example. This nuance is important to avoid sounding artificial or exaggerated. If you're in doubt, opting for more colloquial synonyms can be a safe choice.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 害する

害する - base form
害さします - polite conjugation
害させます - Causative
害しました - past
害しません - Negative

Synonyms and similar words

害を与える (gai o ataeru) - Cause harm or damage.
損害を与える (songai o ataeru) - Cause financial or material damage.
損傷を与える (sonshō o ataeru) - Cause physical harm or injury.
損害をもたらす (songai o motarasu) - Generate or cause financial or material damage.
損傷をもたらす (sonshō o motarasu) - To provoke or cause physical harm.
悪影響を与える (aku eikyou o ataeru) - Cause negative or harmful effects.
悪影響をもたらす (aku eikyou o motarasu) - Generate or bring negative effects.