Translation and Meaning of: 思い付く - omoitsuku

The Japanese word 思い付く (おもいつく, omoitsuku) is a verb that carries a fascinating and useful meaning for those learning the language. If you have ever wondered how to say "to have an idea" or "to remember something" in Japanese, this expression is the key. In this article, we will explore its meaning, usage in daily life, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently.

In addition to being a common term in conversations, 思い付く also appears in animes, dramas, and even in song lyrics, making it even more relevant for students. If you want to truly master Japanese, understanding words like this makes all the difference. Here at Suki Nihongo, our detailed dictionary helps you learn in a practical and straightforward way.

"思い付く" means "to come up with" or "to think of" in English.

思い付く is a verb that can be translated as "to have an idea," "to remember something," or "to occur to someone." It is formed by the combination of 思い (omo-i), which means "thought" or "feeling," and 付く (tsu-ku), which indicates "to adhere" or "to connect." Together, these kanji convey the idea of something that suddenly arises in the mind.

A simple usage example would be: いいアイデアを思い付いた (ii aidea o omoitsuita), which means "I had a good idea." This verb is often used in everyday situations, such as when someone remembers something important or has a creative insight. Unlike other similar terms, it carries a more spontaneous tone, as if the idea came naturally.

How to use 思い付く in everyday life?

In Japan, 思い付く is a very versatile verb. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, from work meetings to conversations among friends. If you are studying Japanese, it is worth practicing it in sentences like 突然思い付いた (totsuzen omoitsuita), which means "I remembered suddenly."

Another interesting characteristic is that it often appears in situations where the person was not actively trying to remember something, but the idea simply "came to mind." For example, in animes, it is common for characters to say そういえば思い付いた！ (sou ieba omoitsuita!), something like "Ah, now that I remember!" This usage reinforces the notion of something that arises naturally.

Tips for memorizing 思い付く

An effective way to cement this word is to associate it with situations where ideas come out of nowhere. Think of moments when you had a "lightbulb" moment or an unexpected solution to a problem. This emotional connection helps to memorize the term more easily. Another tip is to create flashcards with short sentences, like 彼は新しい方法を思い付いた (kare wa atarashii houhou o omoitsuita) – "He came up with a new method."

Additionally, it is worth noting that 思い付く is a group 1 (godan) verb, which means that its conjugation follows a specific pattern. Practicing its forms – such as 思い付かない (omoitsukanai, "not remembering") or 思い付いて (omoitsuite, "remembering and...") – can help internalize not only the meaning but also the grammar behind it.

The importance of 思い付く in Japanese culture

In Japan, where creativity and problem-solving are highly valued, having the ability to 思い付く is seen as a positive quality. In corporate environments, for example, employees are encouraged to share ideas that arise spontaneously, often during brainstorming sessions. This reflects a culture that fosters innovation.

Moreover, in Japanese narratives – whether in books, films, or animes – it is common for main characters to have moments of 思い付く to resolve conflicts. These sudden "insights" often become turning points in the story, demonstrating how the concept is rooted not only in the language but also in the way the Japanese tell stories.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 思い付く

• 思い付く - base form
• 思い付かない - negative
• 思い付きます - Formal
• 思い付かせる - causative
• 思い付かれる - Passive
• 思い付いて - Shape て particle

Synonyms and similar words

• 思いつく (omoitsuku) - To have an idea; to remember something.
• 思い浮かぶ (omoiukabu) - Come to mind; to imagine something vividly.
• 発想する (hassou suru) - Develop an idea or concept; think creatively.
• 思い描く (omoiegaru) - Imagine or visualize something; create a mental image.
• 思い込む (omoikomu) - To convince oneself of something; to have a firm belief about an idea.

思い付く

Romaji: omoitsuku
Kana: おもいつく
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: think of; come up with an idea; come to mind; be hit by an idea.

Meaning in English: to think of;to hit upon;to come into one's mind;to be struck with an idea

Definition: have an idea: have an idea. Suddenly, that comes to mind.

Example Sentences - (思い付く) omoitsuku

See below some example sentences:

思い付くことができた。

Omoitsuku koto ga dekita

I managed to think about it.

I could make this up.

• 思い付く - verb that means "to remember something", "to have an idea", "to occur to someone".
• こと - noun that means "thing", "fact", "event"
• が - Particle that marks the subject of the sentence
• できた - "be able to do something", "manage to accomplish something", in the past