Translation and Meaning of: 揃える - soroeru

The Japanese word 揃える[そろえる] is a versatile verb that appears in various everyday contexts. If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding its meaning and use can be very helpful. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic translation to cultural nuances and practical tips for memorization.

Besides meaning "to align" or "to organize," 揃える has applications that reflect Japanese values such as order and harmony. We will see how it is used in common phrases, its writing in kanji, and even curiosities about its pronunciation. Whether for studies or travel, knowing this word can enrich your vocabulary.

Meaning and translation of 揃える

The verb 揃える can be translated as "align," "organize," or "complete." It is used when we want to indicate that something is being arranged in order or prepared uniformly. For example, when arranging books on a shelf or gathering a set of items, the Japanese use this word.

An interesting particularity is that 揃える also carries the idea of completeness. When someone says "道具を揃える" (dougu o soroeru), it means they are gathering all the necessary tools for a task. This dual meaning between organization and total preparation is part of everyday life in Japan, where attention to detail is valued.

Everyday use and practical examples

In daily life, 揃える appears in situations that range from the simplest to the most formal. In stores, it is common to hear employees saying "商品を揃えています" (shouhin o soroete imasu), indicating that the products are organized and available. At home, mothers may ask their children to "おもちゃを揃えて" (omocha o soroete) to put away the toys.

In the workplace, the verb takes on a more professional tone. Expressions like "書類を揃える" (shorui o soroeru) are essential when preparing documents for a meeting. This usage reflects the Japanese culture of meticulousness, where everything must be in the right place before starting any important activity.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to memorize 揃える is to associate it with concrete actions. Imagine aligning shoes at the entrance of a Japanese home - a common practice in the country. This visual helps to reinforce not only the meaning but also the cultural context behind the word. Another tip is to create flashcards with images of organized things, linking the vocabulary to everyday scenes.

Interestingly, the kanji 揃 is composed of the radical for "hand" (扌), suggesting a physical action of adjustment. Although it is not one of the more frequently used characters, it appears in useful terms like 取り揃える (torisoroeru - gather items). For students, observing these combinations can enhance understanding of how Japanese structures its vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 揃える

• 揃える - dictionary form
• 揃えます - Polite form present/future
• 揃えました - Polite past form
• 揃えない - negative form
• 揃えません - Polite negative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 整える (totonoe-ru) - Prepare, arrange, organize; used in contexts that involve precise adjustment or ordering.
• そろえる (soro-e-ru) - Gather, join, align; typically used to indicate the action of making something match or become uniform.

揃える

Romaji: soroeru
Kana: そろえる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: put things in order; to organize; for uniform; to prepare something

Meaning in English: to put things in order;to arrange;to make uniform;to get something ready

Definition: Organizing and arranging several items.

Example Sentences - (揃える) soroeru

See below some example sentences:

私は本棚を揃える必要がある。

Watashi wa hondana o sorae ru hitsuyō ga aru

I need to organize the bookcase.

I need to prepare book shelves.

• 私 - The personal pronoun that means "I" in Japanese.
• は - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, equivalent to "is" in Portuguese
• 本棚 - noun meaning "bookshelf" in Japanese
• を - object particle that indicates the direct object of the action, equivalent to "o" in Portuguese
• 揃える - verb that means "to tidy up" or "to organize" in Japanese
• 必要 - adjective that means "necessary" in Japanese
• が - subject particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, equivalent to "que" in Portuguese
• ある - verb that means "to exist" in Japanese, used to indicate the existence of something