Translation and Meaning of: 担ぐ - katsugu

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 担ぐ (かつぐ, katsugu). It appears in various contexts, from everyday situations to more specific expressions. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in practice. Additionally, we will see some tips for memorizing it and curiosities about its use in Japan. All of this so that you better understand this word and how to apply it in your learning.

Meaning and usage of 担ぐ (かつぐ)

The verb 担ぐ (かつぐ) has as its main meaning "to carry on one's shoulders" or "to transport something heavy." It is often used to describe actions like carrying a suitcase, a box, or even a person, such as when a child is carried on an adult's shoulders. However, its usage goes beyond the physical sense.

In a more figurative context, 担ぐ can also mean "to take on responsibility" or "to take on a task." For example, in a work environment, someone might say they will "担ぐ" an important project. This versatility makes the word useful in different situations, both in everyday life and in more formal contexts.

Origin and writing of the kanji 担

The kanji 担 (たん, tan) is composed of the radical for hand (扌) and the component 旦 (たん, tan), which refers to the idea of "dawn" or "beginning." This combination suggests the action of taking something with the hands and carrying it forward, which connects to the meaning of "to carry" or "to assume." The etymology reinforces the idea that 担ぐ is related to actions of transport and responsibility.

It is worth noting that this kanji also appears in other words, such as 担当 (たんとう, tantou), which means "in charge" or "responsible." If you have already studied terms related to work or duties, you may have seen this kanji before. Recognizing it in different contexts helps to reinforce its meaning and use.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember the meaning of 担ぐ is to associate it with concrete situations. Imagine someone carrying a heavy backpack on their shoulders or a worker transporting boxes. This mental image can aid in memorization. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, like "彼は荷物を担いだ" (kare wa nimotsu o katsuida – "He carried the luggage").

In Japan, 担ぐ is not an extremely common word in everyday life, but it frequently appears in specific contexts such as logistics, construction, and even in idiomatic expressions. An interesting example is the term 担ぎ屋 (かつぎや, katsugiya), which refers to people who carry heavy objects professionally, such as at temples or festivals. This kind of curiosity helps to understand how the word is rooted in Japanese culture.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 担ぐ

• 担ぐ - verb in its dictionary form
• 担いだ - simple past
• 担いでいる - present continuous
• 担がせる - potential

Synonyms and similar words

• 負う (ou) - To bear a burden or responsibility.
• 抱える (kakaeru) - To load or embrace something, usually in a more intimate way.
• 持つ (motsu) - To own or hold something.
• 背負う (seou) - Carry on the back, like a burden or responsibility.

担ぐ

Romaji: katsugu
Kana: かつぐ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: shoulder carry; shoulder

Meaning in English: to shoulder;to carry on shoulder

Definition: Carrying heavy objects on the shoulders or arms.

Example Sentences - (担ぐ) katsugu

See below some example sentences:

彼は重い荷物を担ぐことができる。

Kare wa omoi nimotsu wo katsugu koto ga dekiru

He is able to carry heavy objects.

He can carry heavy luggage.

• 彼 (kare) - he (personal pronoun)
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 重い (omoi) - Heavy (adjective)
• 荷物 (nimotsu) - Luggage, cargo (noun)
• を (wo) - Direct object particle
• 担ぐ (katsugu) - To carry on one's back, to bear (verb)
• こと (koto) - Thing, fact (noun)
• が (ga) - Subject particle
• できる (dekiru) - Be able to, achieve (verb)