Translation and Meaning of: 態々 - wazawaza

Etymology of 「態々」 (wazawaza)

The Japanese word 「態々」 (wazawaza) is composed of two kanji characters, 「態」 and a repetition, which indicates effort or deliberate intention. The kanji 「態」 alone can mean "state" or "condition," but in this context, the repetition emphasizes the intentional action or conscious effort. The expression combines these notions to convey the idea of something done purposefully or carefully, even when not necessarily needed.

Definition and Meaning

"態々" (wazawaza) is an expression used in Japanese to indicate that someone made a conscious effort to carry out an action that wasn't strictly necessary. It is often used politely when thanking someone for going above and beyond what was expected or to emphasize that something was done deliberately. The word carries a nuance of consideration and effort, highlighting that the action was done intentionally, often out of courtesy or for the benefit of another.

Cultural Uses and Applications

In Japanese culture, where courtesy and intention are highly valued, 「態々」 (wazawaza) plays an important role in the vocabulary, especially in social and professional contexts. The word is often used in situations of gratitude to express appreciation for someone's extra effort. For example, a person might say 「態々来てくれてありがとう」 (wazawaza kite kurete arigatou), which means "thank you for coming especially." This use highlights not just the action, but the effort and consideration involved.

Examples and Variations

Besides its use in expressions of gratitude, 「態々」 (wazawaza) can also be applied in contexts where one wants to emphasize that something was done with effort or deliberate intention. Other variations, such as 「わざわざ」 (the hiragana form of the word), are common in spoken language but maintain the same meaning. By sugar-coating the language, it is a way to express respect and appreciation for the actions of others, an essential quality in Japanese social interactions.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

手間暇 (temahima) - Time and effort dedicated to a task; involves a certain cost in terms of work.
面倒 (mendou) - Inconvenience; it refers to something that is burdensome or complicated, often with a negative connotation.
手数 (tesuu) - Effort or work required to carry out a task, focusing on the difficulties involved.
苦労 (kurou) - Hard work or suffering; emphasizes the struggle or suffering experienced during the completion of tasks.
労力 (rouryoku) - Effort or energy invested in a task; it can be physical or mental.

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