Translation and Meaning of: 握る - nigiru

The Japanese verb 「握る」 (nigiru) is quite common and has various nuances of use in the language. Etymologically, the word is composed of the kanji 「握」, which incorporates the meaning of holding or grasping. This kanji is also related to the act of grabbing firmly with the hand, carrying radicals that refer to the hand and a strong action, like a closed hand or a fist. The reading of this word is “nigiru” when in hiragana, following the kunyomi reading pattern used for native Japanese readings.

In the definition, the expression 「握る」 means to grasp or hold firmly, typically used in physical contexts, such as holding something in hand. Common examples include holding a doorknob or a microphone. However, the meaning of 「握る」 can also have figurative uses, such as "having control" over a situation or issue. This versatility of meaning reflects the richness of the Japanese language in the use of verbs that can be employed in various ways depending on the context.

Historically, 「握る」has ancient roots in the Japanese language, evident from its use in traditional cultural contexts, such as in the preparation of 「握り寿司」 (nigiri sushi), a type of sushi that is shaped by hand. This association with one of Japan's most iconic dishes illustrates the cultural importance of the act of shaping or forming with hands. This link to cuisine is a practical and tangible example of how language and culture intertwine.

Moreover, variations such as 「握り拳」 (nigirikobushi), which means closed fist, and 「手を握る」 (te o nigiru), translated as shake hands, expand the use of the word through more specific expressions, adding nuances and broadening its linguistic scope. The richness of the verb 「握る」 goes beyond its direct translation, reflecting not only physical actions but also social and cultural implications, especially in modern and traditional Japan.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 握る

握る: basic form
握ら: imperative form
握ります: polite form
握った: Past form
握るな: form of prohibition

Synonyms and similar words

握り (Nigiri) - A way to hold something, usually with the hand, like a grip.
にぎる (Nigiru) - Hold or grasp firmly.
捕る (Toru) - Capture or grab something, usually in motion.
把握する (Haaku suru) - To understand something can also mean to hold.
掴む (Tsukamu) - Grab or hold something firmly.
捉える (Toraeru) - Capture or hold something actively.
捕まえる (Tsukamaeru) - To take or capture something, often used to refer to holding something in the sense of capturing.
手に入れる (Te ni ireru) - Obtain or acquire something, often used in contexts of conquest.
手にする (Te ni suru) - To have or hold something in your hands.
手中にする (Techuu ni suru) - To put something in your hands, implying control or possession.
手に持つ (Te ni motsu) - Hold something in your hands, emphasizing the act of holding.
手に取る (Te ni toru) - To take something with the hands, the action of taking in a gentler manner.