Translation and Meaning of: 掌 - tanagokoro

The Japanese word 掌[たなごころ] carries a poetic and cultural meaning that goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore its significance, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese life. If you've ever wondered what this word represents or how to memorize it effectively, keep reading to discover interesting facts and practical tips.

Meaning and origin of 掌[たなごころ]

掌[たなごころ] is a word that means "palm of the hand" in Japanese. The kanji 掌, by itself, already carries the idea of control or dominance, which relates to the function of the palm as an active part of the hand. The reading たなごころ is an example of kun'yomi, the native Japanese pronunciation of the character.

Interestingly, the word also appears in more literary and poetic contexts, often associated with delicate feelings or actions. Unlike 手のひら[てのひら], which is more common in everyday life, 掌 has a slightly more refined and even metaphorical tone in certain situations.

Cultural use and frequency in Japanese

Although it is not as common as 手のひら, 掌 appears in expressions and texts that seek a more expressive effect. For example, in poems and songs, it can be used to convey the idea of something being held with care or affection. This nuance gives the word greater emotional weight in certain contexts.

In everyday life, the Japanese tend to use 手のひら to refer to the palm of the hand more directly. However, knowing 掌 is useful for those who want to deepen their vocabulary and understand nuances of the Japanese language, especially in literary or artistic materials.

Tips for memorizing 掌[たなごころ]

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate the kanji 掌 with the idea of "controlling" or "holding." Since the palm of the hand is used to pick up objects, this connection can help reinforce the meaning. Another tip is to create flashcards with examples of sentences that use 掌, such as in poetic or descriptive contexts.

Additionally, listening to music or reading texts that contain this word can reinforce your learning. Repeated exposure to 掌 in different situations makes it easier to internalize the term and its usage specifics.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 手のひら (tenohira) - Palm of the hand
• 手掌 (shoshou) - Palm of the hand; more formal term
• 手の甲 (ten no kou) - Back of the hand

掌

Romaji: tanagokoro
Kana: たなごころ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: the palm

Meaning in English: the palm

Definition: Palm.

Example Sentences - (掌) tanagokoro

See below some example sentences:

満場掌声を浴びる。

Manjou shousai wo abiru

Receive applause from the entire audience.

I will be exposed to the full voice.

• 満場 - means "the entire audience" or "everyone present at the venue".
• 掌声 - means "applause".
• を - particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence.
• 浴びる - verb meaning "to receive" or "to bathe". In this case, it is being used in the figurative sense of "receiving" the applause.

私の掌には未来が描かれている。

Watashi no tenohira ni wa mirai ga egakarete iru

The future is drawn in the palm of my hand.

The future is drawn in my palm.

• 私の (watashi no) - my
• 掌に (tenohira ni) - in the palm of the hand
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 未来が (mirai ga) - future (subject)
• 描かれている (egakarete iru) - is being drawn/painted