Translation and Meaning of: 弛む - tarumu

The Japanese word 弛む [たるむ] is a verb that carries interesting nuances in the language, often associated with something that loses tension or firmness. Whether in physical contexts, like a rope that loosens, or figurative ones, like relaxed discipline, understanding its meaning and usage can enrich your vocabulary in Japanese. In this article, we will explore everything from its origin and writing to practical examples, all to help you master this expression with confidence.

Meaning and use of 弛む

The verb 弛む describes something that loses its original tension, either in a concrete or abstract way. For example, an overly stretched rubber band can 弛む (loosen), just like someone's concentration after hours of studying. This versatility means that the word appears in everyday situations and even in discussions about productivity.

It is worth noting that 弛む is not an overly formal term, but it also doesn’t sound too casual. It appears in daily conversations and even in more serious texts, such as manuals or articles on discipline. Its kanji, 弛, is less common than others, but its reading (たるむ) is relatively easy to memorize for students.

Origin and writing of the kanji 弛

The kanji 弛 is composed of the radical 弓 (bow) and 也 (an ancient character that indicated “to be”). Together, they suggest the idea of a bow losing its flexibility — a perfect image for the concept of "loosening." This visual etymology helps to understand why the word is used both for physical objects and for abstract situations.

Although 弛 is not one of the most common kanji in modern Japanese, its use is stable in specific contexts. Dictionaries like 広辞苑 and platforms like Jisho.org reinforce its presence as a valid and relevant term, especially in descriptions of state or changes in condition.

Tips for memorizing and using 弛む

An effective way to solidify 弛む is to associate it with practical situations. Imagine a clothesline that, over time, 弛んでしまった (became loose). Or think of a team that, after an intense project, a 弛んだ雰囲気 (relaxed atmosphere) took over. These images create strong mental connections.

Another tip is to practice with short and direct phrases, such as 緊張が弛む (the tension dissipates) or ベルトが弛んだ (the belt loosened). Repeating them aloud or writing them on flashcards can speed up learning. Suki Nihongo, by the way, offers examples like this in its dictionary, making it easier to consult.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 弛む

• 弛む - Dictionary form 辞書形
• 弛まない - Negative 否定
• 弛みましょう - Polite 丁寧
• 弛んで - Past form 過去形

Synonyms and similar words

• 緩む (yurum) - Awaken; let go; loosen.
• 緩める (yurumeru) - To make something loosen; to loosen (something in use).
• 緩まる (yuramaru) - To be relaxed; to have the tension reduced; to relax.
• 緩やかになる (yuruyaka ni naru) - Become gentle; become less active; reduce rigidity.

弛む

Romaji: tarumu
Kana: たるむ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: loosen; release; to relax

Meaning in English: to slacken;to loosen;to relax

Definition: To lose strength and relax. Relax.

Example Sentences - (弛む) tarumu

See below some example sentences:

筋肉が弛むとリラックスできる。

Kin'niku ga yurumu to rirakkusu dekiru

You can relax when your muscles are loose.

• 筋肉 (kin'niku) - Muscle
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 弛む (yurumu) - relax, loosen
• と (to) - conditional particle
• リラックス (rirakkusu) - to relax
• できる (dekiru) - to be able to, can

私たちは時々弛みが必要です。

Watashitachi wa tokidoki yurumi ga hitsuyōdesu

We need moments of relaxation sometimes.

Sometimes we need laxity.

• 私たち - 私たち
• は - Japanese topic particle
• 時々 - "sometimes" in Japanese
• 弛み - "relaxamento" in Japanese
• が - Subject particle in Japanese.
• 必要 - "Necessário" in Japanese
• です - The verb "to be" in Japanese, used to indicate a formal or polite statement.