Translation and Meaning of: 対 - tai

The Japanese word 対[たい] is a versatile term frequently used in the language, carrying meanings that range from "opposition" to "pair" or "relationship." If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding how and when to use this word can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical applications, as well as cultural curiosities that make 対[たい] a fascinating word.

For those searching on Google for information about 対[たい], this text will clarify common questions, such as its correct translation, context of use, and even tips for memorization. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides real examples and detailed explanations to aid in learning. Let's dive into the details of this word and discover why it is so relevant in Japanese everyday life.

Meaning and uses of 対 [たい]

The term 対[たい] has multiple meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. In its most basic form, it can mean "against," indicating opposition, as in 対戦[たいせん] (fight against someone). However, it can also represent a pair or combination, as in 対のイス[たいのいす] (pair of chairs). This duality of meanings makes the word especially useful in different situations.

Additionally, 対[たい] appears in everyday and formal expressions. For example, 対策[たいさく] means "countermeasure" or "solution to a problem," while 対談[たいだん] refers to a conversation between two people, often in a professional context. This variety of applications demonstrates how the word is rooted in Japanese communication.

Origin and writing of 対[たい]

The origin of the kanji 対 dates back to classical Chinese, where it originally represented the idea of "to respond" or "to correspond." Over time, its meaning evolved to include notions of opposition and parity. The radical 寸[すん] (measurement) appears in this kanji, suggesting a relationship of proportion or balance between opposing or complementary elements.

In modern writing, 対 is made up of 7 strokes and is classified as an intermediate level kanji, often found in formal and informal texts. Its most common reading is たい, but it can also be read as つい in certain contexts, such as in 対の[ついの] (a pair). This variation in pronunciation underscores the importance of studying the context in which the word appears.

Tips for memorizing 対[たい]

An effective way to memorize 対[たい] is to associate it with compound words you already know. For example, remembering 対戦[たいせん] (competition) or 対話[たいわ] (dialogue) makes it easier to identify the central meaning of the word. Another strategy is to create flashcards with practical examples, such as sentences that show its different uses.

Moreover, observing the kanji 対 in real contexts, such as in news or animes, can help reinforce its meaning. Many students report that watching Japanese content with subtitles makes it easier to learn terms like 対[たい], as repetition in varied situations consolidates memory. Suki Nihongo provides a selection of authentic examples for practice.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 相手 (aite) - Partner, opponent
• 対象 (taishou) - Target, object of analysis
• 対戦 (taisetsu) - Confrontation, competition
• 対立 (tairitsu) - Conflict, opposition
• 対策 (taisaku) - Countermeasure, strategy
• 対応 (taiou) - Response, support for a problem
• 対比 (taihi) - Comparison, contrast
• 対話 (taiwa) - dialogue, conversation
• 対処 (taisho) - Management, dealing with a situation
• 対抗 (taikou) - Competition, opposition to something

対

Romaji: tai
Kana: たい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: reason; versus; against; opposition

Meaning in English: ratio;versus;against;opposition

Definition: To point at someone.

Example Sentences - (対) tai

See below some example sentences:

この問題に対する措置を早急に取る必要があります。

Kono mondai ni tai suru sochi o sokkyū ni toru hitsuyō ga arimasu

It is necessary to take urgent measures regarding this problem.

It is necessary to take action against this problem immediately.

• この問題に対する措置 - measures in relation to this problem
• を - object particle
• 早急に - urgently, immediately
• 取る - take, adopt
• 必要があります - Is required

個別に対応します。

Kobetsu ni taiou shimasu

I will deal with this individually.

We will respond individually.

• 個別に - individually
• 対応します - respond, answer

奇数は偶数と対照的です。

Kisuu wa guusuu to taishouteki desu

Odd numbers contrast with even numbers.

• 奇数 - Odd number
• は - Topic particle
• 偶数 - even number
• と - Comparison particle
• 対照的 - contrasting, opposite
• です - verb ser/estar, indicating the polite form

対等な関係を築くことが大切です。

Taitou na kankei wo kizuku koto ga taisetsu desu

It is important to build a relationship of equality.

It is important to build equal relationships.

• 対等な - means "equal" or "equivalent".
• 関係 - means "relation" or "connection".
• を - Particle that indicates the object of the action.
• 築く - means "to build" or "to establish".
• こと - noun that indicates an action or event.
• が - Particle that indicates the subject of the sentence.
• 大切 - It means "important" or "valuable".
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form.

対話は大切です。

Taidawa wa taisetsu desu

Dialogue is important.

• 対話 (taidou) - dialogue, conversation
• は (wa) - topic particle, indicates that the subject of the sentence is "dialogue"
• 大切 (taisetsu) - important, valuable
• です (desu) - verb "to be" in the present, indicates that "dialogue" is important

対策を考えなければなりません。

Taisaku wo kangaenakereba narimasen

We need to think of preventive measures.

You have to consider measures.

• 対策 (taisaku) - preventive measure
• を (wo) - object particle
• 考える (kangaeru) - think
• なければなりません (nakereba narimasen) - must be done, it is necessary

専制主義は民主主義とは対極にある。

Senshoku shugi wa minshu shugi to wa taikyoku ni aru

Despotism is opposite to democracy.

The tube is the opposite of democracy.

• 専制主義 - political system in which power is exercised in an absolute way by a single person or group
• 民主主義 - political system in which power is exercised by the people, through elections and popular participation
• 対極 - opposite, contrary
• にある - to be in, to be present in

彼女は私に対して優しいです。

Kanojo wa watashi ni taishite yasashii desu

She is kind to me.

• 彼女 (kanojo) - She (female)
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 私に対して (watashi ni taishite) - in relation to me
• 優しいです (yasashii desu) - is kind

核兵器は絶対に使用してはいけない。

Kaku heiki wa zettai ni shiyou shite wa ikenai

Never use nuclear weapons.

• 核兵器 - nuclear weapon
• は - Topic particle
• 絶対に - absolutely
• 使用して - using
• はいけない - not allowed

私たちは困難に対して強く立ち向かわなければなりません。

Watashitachi wa konnan ni taisuru tsuyoku tachimukawanakereba narimasen

We must strongly face the difficulties.

• 私たちは - 「私たち」
• 困難に - "Difficulty" in Japanese, followed by the particle "ni" which indicates the relationship with the previous word.
• 対して - "In relation to" in Japanese
• 強く - "Strongly" in Japanese, an adverb that modifies the following verb.
• 立ち向かわなければなりません - "We need to face" in Japanese, verb in the negative conditional form indicating an obligation.