Translation and Meaning of: 捩る - nejiru

The Japanese word 捩る (ねじる, nejiru) is a verb that describes a common physical action but carries interesting nuances in the Japanese language and culture. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its meaning, usage, and context can be more helpful than you might think. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic translation to cultural details and practical memorization tips.

In addition to meaning "to twist" or "to turn," 捩る appears in everyday situations and even in specific expressions. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides real examples of how this word is used. Let's delve into the details so you can use it with confidence.

Meaning and usage of 捩る (ねじる)

The verb 捩る is often translated as "twist," "turn," or "contort." It is used to describe physical actions, such as twisting a cloth to remove water or turning a cap to open a bottle. However, its use is not limited to objects. It can also describe bodily movements, such as twisting the wrist or contorting in pain.

In more abstract contexts, 捩る can appear in expressions that suggest distortion or manipulation. For example, 話を捩る (はなしをねじる, hanashi o nejiru) can mean "twist the words" or "twist a story." This type of usage shows how the word goes beyond its literal meaning, entering the metaphorical realm.

Origin and writing of the kanji 捩

The kanji 捩 is composed of the hand radical (扌), which indicates manual action, combined with the component 戾, which suggests twisting or returning. This combination reinforces the meaning of "twist with the hands." The kun'yomi reading ねじる (nejiru) is the most common, but the kanji can also be read as レイ (rei) in some less frequent compounds.

It is interesting to note that the kanji 捩 is not one of the most common in everyday Japanese. Often, speakers choose to write ねじる in hiragana, especially in informal contexts. This does not diminish its importance but reflects a trend in the Japanese language to simplify certain writings in daily life.

Tips for memorizing and using ねじる

An effective way to memorize ねじる is to associate it with physical actions you perform regularly. Think of twisting a wet towel or opening a bottle - these are perfect situations to practice using the word. Creating flashcards with images of these actions can help reinforce the vocabulary visually.

Another valuable tip is to pay attention to the verb when it appears in animes or dramas. Often, characters use ねじる in everyday scenes or during physical conflicts. This audiovisual context creates a stronger memory than simply studying the word in isolation. Suki Nihongo offers real examples of sentences that can enrich your learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 捩る

• 捩る 捩られます- Forma passiva
• 捩る 捩られる- Forma potencial
• 捩る 捩れます- Forma potencial passiva
• 捩る 捩った- Forma passada
• 捩る 捩ります- Forma presente/futura

Synonyms and similar words

• ねじる (nejiru) - to twist
• 曲げる (mageru) - Fold (usually at an angle)
• ねじ曲げる (nejimageru) - Bend and twist (combination of actions)
• 扭る (nyuru) - Twist (in a circular or more intense manner)

捩る

Romaji: nejiru
Kana: ねじる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: to torture; to fight

Meaning in English: to torture;to wrest

Definition: Twisting things, twisting them.

Example Sentences - (捩る) nejiru

See below some example sentences:

私は指を捩りました。

Watashi wa yubi o nejirimashita

I crooked my finger.

• 私 (watashi) - Japanese personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 指 (yubi) - Japanese noun that means "finger"
• を (wo) - object particle indicating the direct object of the action
• 捩りました (nejirimashita) - Japanese verb that means "to twist".