Translation and Meaning of: 捕る - toru

The Japanese word 捕る[とる] is a verb that carries practical meanings and interesting cultural nuances. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding its correct usage can prevent confusion and enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts in which this word appears, along with tips for memorizing it effectively. The Suki Nihongo dictionary provides clear examples for those who want to master the term in real situations.

Meaning and usage of 捕る

捕る [とる] means "to capture" or "to catch," usually referring to animals, fish, or even people in specific contexts. Unlike other similar verbs, such as 取る (to take in the sense of grabbing an object), 捕る has a more active sense of hunting or apprehension. For example, fishermen use this word when talking about catching fish, while authorities may employ it when describing the capture of a suspect.

In everyday life, the term frequently appears in news about crimes or in conversations about fishing. Its application is more common in formal records or narratives but also arises in informal dialogues when the subject is capture. It is worth noting that, although it is a useful verb, it is not one of the most frequent in daily use, appearing more in specific contexts.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 捕 is composed of the radical 扌(てへん), which indicates action with the hands, combined with 甫 (ho), which used to suggest the idea of spreading or covering. Together, they convey the notion of "grasping with the hands." This etymology reinforces the practical sense of the verb, linked to the physical action of capturing. Sources like Kanjipedia and 漢字源 confirm this construction, showing how the character evolved to represent the current concept.

It's interesting to compare 捕る with other verbs that share the same radical, such as 捕まえる (to catch firmly). Although they share the idea of seizing, 捕る has a more decisive tone, almost always involving movement or pursuit. This subtlety is important for students who want to avoid common mistakes when choosing between similar terms.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to reinforce 捕る is to associate it with concrete situations, such as scenes from anime where characters are fishing or police officers are arresting criminals. Series like "Detective Conan" or "Golden Kamuy" use the term in such contexts, helping to visualize its real use. Another tip is to create flashcards with images of capture – the brain retains words better when linked to visible actions.

Culturally, the verb reflects Japanese values such as precision and efficiency. In old proverbs, though rare, it appears in lessons about patience (like in hunting). There are no modern slang terms derived from it, but its kanji is part of technical terms, such as 逮捕 (daiho, "arrest"). To practice, try to create simple sentences like 魚を捕る ("catch a fish") – Suki Nihongo has examples like this for practice.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 捕る

捕る - base form
捕ります - Polished form
捕った - past form
捕れば conditional form
捕れる - potential form

Synonyms and similar words

捕まえる (tsukamaeru) - Capture, seize; generally used in the context of catching something or someone.
捕捉する (hosaku suru) - Capture, apprehend; more technical, often used in contexts of capture in science or research.
捕獲する (hokaku suru) - Capture; often used in relation to animals or objects in collection contexts.