Translation and Meaning of: 掛かる - kakaru

The Japanese word 掛かる [かかる] is a versatile and frequently used verb in everyday life, with meanings that vary according to the context. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about this expression, understanding its uses and nuances can be very helpful. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and how this word is applied in different situations, along with tips for memorizing it efficiently.

Meaning and uses of 掛かる

掛かる is a verb that can have several meanings, depending on the situation in which it is used. One of the most common meanings is "to be hung" or "to be suspended," as in 壁に絵が掛かっている (a picture is hanging on the wall). However, it can also mean "to take time" or "to cost," as in この仕事は時間が掛かる (this job will take time).

Another interesting use is in the sense of "being at stake" or "depending on something," as in 命が掛かっている (life is at stake). This variety of meanings makes 掛かる an essential word for anyone wanting to master everyday Japanese.

Origin and structure of kanji

The kanji 掛 is composed of the radical 手 (hand) and the component 卦 (division, symbol), suggesting the idea of "holding" or "fastening something." This construction well reflects some of its meanings, such as "to hang" or "to apply." The origin of the kanji traces back to ancient Chinese, where it already carried meanings related to suspension and the action of placing something in a location.

It is worth noting that, although the kanji is the same in different contexts, its reading can vary. For example, in compound words like 電話を掛ける (make a phone call), the pronunciation changes to かける, but it maintains a semantic relation to the idea of "connect" or "apply."

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 掛かる is to associate it with concrete situations. Imagine a picture hanging on the wall or a phone being used to make a call. These images help to fix the main meanings. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as カーテンが掛かっている (the curtain is hanging) or このプロジェクトはお金が掛かる (this project will cost money).

Furthermore, paying attention to the contexts in which the word appears in animes, dramas, or songs can help internalize its uses. For example, in scenes where someone says 時間が掛かるよ (it's going to take time), you reinforce the association with the meaning of "taking time."

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 掛かる

掛かる - intransitive verb
掛かります - polite form
掛かった - affirmative past
掛からない - Negative
掛かれ - imperative

Synonyms and similar words

費やす (hiyasu) - Waste or use resources, such as time or money.
費用がかかる (hiyō ga kakaru) - Causes expenses; implies that there are costs involved.
時間がかかる (jikan ga kakaru) - It takes time; it indicates that something is not immediate.
必要とする (hitsuyō to suru) - Requir; indicates that something is necessary.
要する (yōsuru) - To need; generally used in contexts of requirements.
負担する (futan suru) - Assume a responsibility or cost.
負う (ou) - Assume a load or responsibility.
負担を強いる (futan o shiiru) - To impose a load or responsibility on someone.
手間がかかる (tema ga kakaru) - To take effort or work; indicates a task that is time-consuming.
手間を要する (tema o yōsuru) - Requires effort; similar to 手間がかかる, but focusing on the need for effort.
かかる (kakaru) - Take time or cost in general.
負担をかける (futan o kakeru) - To impose a burden or responsibility on someone.
負担を負う (futan o ou) - Assume a responsibility or cost.
負担をかかえる (futan o kakaeru) - To bear a responsibility or burden that is carried.
負担を背負う (futan o seou) - To bear the burden or responsibility.
負担を引き受ける (futan o hikiukeru) - Accept or take on a responsibility.
負担を負担する (futan o futan suru) - Repetition of the act of carrying a load, emphasizing the responsibility.
負担をかかる (futan o kakaru) - Involve costs or responsibilities.
負担を負わせる (futan o owaseru) - Transfer a responsibility or burden to another person.
負担を負わす (futan o owasu) - Import a load; similar to 負担を負わせる, but with a more direct nuance.
負担を負わせる (futan o owaseru) - Repetition with the same meaning of transferring responsibility.
負担を負わす (futan o owasu) - Repetition with the same meaning of imposing a burden.