Translation and Meaning of: 手遅れ - teokure

The Japanese word 手遅れ[ておくれ] carries a deep meaning and practical utility in everyday life. If you've ever wondered what it means, how to use it, or even its origin, this article will answer those questions. We will explore everything from the basic meaning to cultural curiosities, all so you can truly understand this expression. Here at Suki Nihongo, our Japanese dictionary, we believe that learning goes beyond translation – it's about context and real usage.

Significado e tradução de 手遅れ

手遅れ is a word that can be translated as "too late" or "past the time." It describes situations where an action or intervention has missed the right moment to be effective. Imagine trying to fix a problem when there is no longer a solution – that is the feeling that 手遅れ conveys.

Unlike simply saying "late," this expression carries a more definitive tone, almost of resignation. It’s not just about time, but about the impossibility of changing the outcome. For example, in medical contexts, it may indicate that a treatment will no longer be effective.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word is formed by two kanjis: 手 (hand) and 遅れ (delay). Together, they create the idea of something that "slipped through the hands" due to tardiness. This combination is not random – it reflects the Japanese cultural perception that opportunities require action at the right moment.

Interestingly, the kanji 遅 appears in other words related to time, such as 遅刻 (chikoku - delay) and 遅い (osoi - slow). This visual connection can aid in memorization. According to the Kanjipedia dictionary, the radical 辶 (movement) in 遅 reinforces this very notion of something that moves away in time.

Cultural usage and frequency

In Japan, 手遅れ ( teokure ) is more than just a word – it’s a concept that reflects social values. Japanese culture values timing and prevention, making this expression particularly relevant. It frequently appears in discussions about health, business, and even personal relationships.

In dramas and animes, you can hear 手遅れ in dramatic scenes when characters realize they missed the moment to act. This recurrence in the media shows how the term is rooted in the Japanese mindset. It's not about pessimism, but about recognizing when circumstances have surpassed the point of no return.

Practical tips for use

To use 手遅れ correctly, remember that it usually describes irreversible situations. A common construction is 手遅れになる (to become too late). Avoid using it for common delays – reserve it for cases where there is truly nothing more to be done.

In everyday speech, 手遅れ often carries a tone of regret or warning. It can be used both to speak about oneself ("手遅れだった" - it was too late) and to warn others ("手遅れになる前に" - before it's too late). This flexibility makes the word useful in various contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 遅すぎる (Osugiru) - Too late.
• 遅れる (Okureru) - Be late.
• 遅延する (Chien suru) - Delay; to cause a delay (usually used in transportation contexts).
• 遅滞する (Chitai suru) - To be late; delay (more formal).
• 遅れがち (Okuregachi) - Prone to being late; tendency to be late.
• 遅れ気味 (Okuregimi) - A little late; in a state of delay.
• 遅れ込む (Okurekomu) - To end up being late; to delay in a more unexpected sense.
• 遅れをとる (Okure o toru) - Fall behind; not being able to keep up.
• 遅れを生じる (Okure o shōjiru) - Generate a delay; resulting in a delay.
• 遅れを招く (Okure o maneku) - Cause a delay; bring a delay.
• 遅れを来す (Okure o kinasu) - Cause a delay; result in a delay (more formal).
• 遅れをこうむる (Okure o kōmuru) - To endure a delay; to suffer due to a delay.
• 遅れをともなう (Okure o tomonau) - To be accompanied by a delay; to be associated with a delay.
• 遅れをともなわせる (Okure o tomonawaseru) - Causing something to come with a delay.

手遅れ

Romaji: teokure
Kana: ておくれ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Too late; late treatment

Meaning in English: too late;belated treatment

Definition: Things are running behind and there's nothing you can do about it.

Example Sentences - (手遅れ) teokure

See below some example sentences:

手遅れになる前に行動しなければならない。

Teokure ni naru mae ni koudou shinakereba naranai

You have to act before it's too late.

• 手遅れになる - means "too late," "irreversible."
• 前に - means "before".
• 行動 - means "action", "movement".
• しなければならない - means "must do", "has to do".