Translation and Meaning of: 拐う - sarau

The Japanese word 拐う (さらう) carries an intense and specific meaning, often associated with actions like abducting, kidnapping, or taking something by force. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about less common terms, understanding the usage and origin of this expression can be essential to avoid misunderstandings. In this article, we will explore its meaning, cultural context, and how it is perceived in Japan.

In addition to uncovering the translation of 拐う, let's analyze its writing in kanji, its frequency in everyday Japanese, and even tips for memorizing it correctly. If you're looking for accurate information about this word, the Suki Nihongo dictionary is a great reference to deepen your studies.

Meaning and usage of 拐う

The verb 拐う (さらう) is primarily used in contexts involving taking someone or something against their will, such as in kidnappings or thefts. Unlike more generic words like "to take" (連れていく), it carries a negative and violent connotation. Therefore, its usage is not common in everyday conversations, appearing more in news, stories, or legal contexts.

An important detail is that 拐う can be written only in hiragana (さらう), but the form with kanji (拐う) makes its more serious meaning clear. The kanji 拐, by itself, already refers to deception or subtraction, reinforcing the idea of coercive action. In informal situations, Japanese people tend to choose less intense expressions, reserving 拐う for extreme cases.

Origin and components of kanji

The etymology of 拐う is directly linked to the kanji 拐, which is composed of the hand radical (扌) and the component 圭, historically representing something curved or deceptive. This combination suggests the idea of "grabbing with hidden intent," which explains its use in contexts of abduction or fraud. Sources like the Kangorin dictionary confirm this relationship between the writing and the meaning.

It is worth noting that 拐 is not one of the most common kanji, appearing more frequently in words like 誘拐 (ゆうかい), which means "kidnapping." Its isolated use, as in 拐う, is less common, but still important for those who wish to master Japanese vocabulary in its entirety, especially in formal or journalistic situations.

Cultural context and care in use

In Japan, words like 拐う are treated seriously due to the gravity of the acts they describe. Their inappropriate use can cause confusion or even offense, as they are associated with serious crimes. Therefore, it is rare to hear them in everyday conversations unless the topic is related to safety or justice.

For Japanese students, it is useful to know that 拐う occasionally appears in police dramas, news about kidnappings, or legal materials. Memorizing it may be easier if associated with these specific contexts, avoiding its casual use. One tip is to create flashcards with real examples, always checking reliable sources to ensure the accuracy of the meaning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 拐う

• 拐う - base form
• 拐える - Conjunctive mood
• 拐います - polite form
• 拐え - imperative form
• 拐っていた - past form

Synonyms and similar words

• 誘拐する (yūkai suru) - Kidnapping; the act of forcibly taking someone against their will.
• 連れ去る (tsurezaru) - To take someone away; it usually refers to an involuntary action, but without the connotation of kidnapping.
• 誘い出す (sasoidasu) - Convincing someone to leave or distance themselves from a place; it can have a connotation of deceit or manipulation.

拐う

Romaji: sarau
Kana: さらう
Type: verb
L: -

Translation / Meaning: Continue; to escape; to kidnap; Kidnap

Meaning in English: to carry off;to run away with;to kidnap;to abduct

Definition: Take someone away by force, such as through kidnapping.

Example Sentences - (拐う) sarau

See below some example sentences:

彼は女性を拐うつもりだった。

Kare wa josei o sarau tsumori datta

He intended to kidnap a woman.

He intended to kidnap the woman.

• 彼 - He
• は - Topic particle
• 女性 - Woman
• を - Direct object particle
• 拐う - Kidnap
• つもり - Intention
• だった - Past tense of the verb "to be"