Translation and Meaning of: 教え - oshie

The Japanese word 教え [おしえ] is an essential term for anyone learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. Its meaning goes beyond a simple translation, carrying important nuances in the educational and philosophical context. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, its origin, how it is used in daily life, and some tips for memorizing it efficiently. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese understand the concept of "teaching" or "lesson," this text will help you unravel these details.

The meaning and translation of 教え

教え [おしえ] is a noun that means "teaching," "lesson," or "doctrine." It derives from the verb 教える [おしえる], which means "to teach" or "to instruct." The word is often used in contexts involving the transmission of knowledge, whether in schools, martial arts, or even in family traditions. Unlike more generic terms, 教え carries a connotation of wisdom passed down from generation to generation.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you will find practical examples of how this word is used in everyday sentences. A common usage is in expressions like 先生の教え [せんせいのおしえ], which refers to the teachings of a teacher or master. It is worth noting that, although it can be translated as "lesson," it is not limited to just the academic environment and may also appear in religious or philosophical contexts.

The origin and writing of the kanji 教

The kanji 教 is composed of two main elements: 孝 (filial) and 攵 (the action of hitting). Originally, it represented the idea of "instruction through discipline," reflecting a traditional teaching method that valued strict correction. Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass broader concepts such as education and moral guidance. This historical root helps to understand why the word 教え (oshie) carries such significant weight in the Japanese language.

An interesting fact is that the kanji 教 appears in other related terms, such as 教育 [きょういく] (education) and 宗教 [しゅうきょう] (religion). If you are studying Japanese, you will notice that recognizing these patterns greatly facilitates the learning of vocabulary. A tip to memorize 教え is to associate it with situations in which someone is receiving valuable knowledge, such as advice from a mentor.

How 教え is used in Japanese culture

In Japan, the word 教え is deeply connected to the notion of respect for ancestral knowledge. Arts such as chadō (tea ceremony), shodō (calligraphy), and even martial arts follow the 教え of their founders, keeping alive methods that may have centuries of history. This cultural aspect shows how the term goes beyond its literal meaning, representing the preservation of values and techniques over time.

Another relevant point is that 教え is not restricted to great masters. Parents pass their 教え on to their children, chefs share culinary secrets with apprentices, and even colleagues share small lessons with each other. This everyday use reinforces the idea that the act of teaching is a fundamental part of social relationships in Japan. If you want to practice, try to create sentences like この教えは大切です [このおしえはたいせつです] ("This teaching is important").

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 指導 (Shidō) - Guidance, supervision
• 指示 (Shiji) - Instruction, command
• 指導する (Shidō suru) - To guide, to direct
• 教育する (Kyōiku suru) - Educate, instruct formally
• 教える (Oshieru) - Teaching, passing on knowledge
• 説明する (Setsumei suru) - Explain, make clear
• 言い聞かせる (Ii kikaseteru) - Convince through words, persuade
• 言葉を教える (Kotoba o oshieru) - Teach words, language
• 教授する (Kyōju suru) - Teaching in an academic context
• 指導者 (Shidōsha) - Leader, mentor
• 指導力 (Shidōryoku) - Leadership capacity, ability to guide
• 指導的 (Shidōteki) - Related to guidance or leadership
• 指導方針 (Shidōhōshin) - Policy of guidance or leadership

教え

Romaji: oshie
Kana: おしえ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: teachings; precept; lesson; doctrine

Meaning in English: teachings;precept;lesson;doctrine

Definition: To convey knowledge and skills about people or things.

Example Sentences - (教え) oshie

See below some example sentences:

私は日本語を教えることができます。

Watashi wa nihongo wo oshieru koto ga dekimasu

I can teach Japanese.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 日本語 (nihongo) - Japanese language
• を (wo) - direct object particle indicating the object of the action
• 教える (oshieru) - verb that means "teach"
• ことができます (koto ga dekimasu) - expression that indicates the ability or possibility of doing something