Translation and Meaning of: 整える - totonoeru

The Japanese word 「整える」 (totonoeru) is quite rich in meaning and usage in the Japanese language. Its etymology dates back to a combination of kanji 「整」 which refers to “organizing” or “adjusting” and is often used to describe the act of putting something in order. The verb 「える」 (eru) acts as a verbalizing component, transforming the idea of organization into a concrete action.

The expression can be translated in several ways, such as "arrange," "prepare," "adjust," or even "tune," depending on the context in which it is used. It is extremely versatile, applying to both physical contexts and more abstract situations. For example, you can use 「整える」 to talk about tidying up a space, like a room, or balancing aspects of personal and spiritual life, like "mentally prepare."

The origin of this verb is deeply rooted in the Japanese cultural need for order and harmony, values that permeate many aspects of daily life and Japanese thought. The ability to「整える」 things is considered a commendable trait, and the practice of organizing or adjusting is seen not just as a routine task but as an art that can lead to personal improvement.

Common Uses and Applications of 「整える」

• In fashion or personal care contexts, such as when dressing or styling hair, the phrase「髪を整える」(kami wo totonoeru) is used to indicate that someone is fixing or tidying up their hair.
• In food preparation, where it speaks of "料理を整える" (ryouri wo totonoeru) when adjusting the flavor of a dish or the final presentation.
• In business environments, when organizing documents or preparing a presentation: 「資料を整える」 (shiryou wo totonoeru).

In all these examples, the essence of 「整える」 remains the same: bringing something to a desired state of order and harmony. It is not just about fixing or cleaning, but seeking a balance that translates the concept of perfection that is often culturally valued. This ability to 「整える」 becomes an essential component for a successful and harmonious life in the Japanese context.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 整える

• 整える - dictionary form
• 整えます - Formal or polite form
• 整えよう - Potential or volitional form
• 整えた - past form
• 整えて - Form "て" of the verb

Synonyms and similar words

• 整備する (Seibi suru) - Maintenance, proper preparation of something.
• 修復する (Shuufuku suru) - Restoration, repair of something damaged.
• 調整する (Chousei suru) - Adjustment, modification to achieve an appropriate state.
• 整理する (Seiri suru) - Organization, efficient arrangement of items.
• 修繕する (Shuzen suru) - Repair, structural repair focused.
• 調和する (Chouwa suru) - Harmony, balance between different elements.
• 調節する (Chousetsu suru) - Regulation, control of parameters for optimal operation.
• 整頓する (Seiton suru) - Methodical organization and space cleaning.
• 整形する (Seikei suru) - Modeling, shaping something into a desired form.
• 調える (Tonoeru) - Adjust or prepare something appropriately.
• 修理する (Shuuri suru) - Repair, fixing of equipment or objects.

整える

Romaji: totonoeru
Kana: ととのえる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: colocar em ordem; se preparar; para organizar; ajustar

Meaning in English: to put in order;to get ready;to arrange;to adjust

Definition: To keep things in order.

Example Sentences - (整える) totonoeru

See below some example sentences:

髪を整える

Kami wo totonoeru

Fix the hair.

Prepare your hair

• 髪 (kami) - cabelo
• を (wo) - object particle
• 整える (tottaeru) - arrange, comb

下地を整える必要があります。

Shimoji wo totonoeru hitsuyou ga arimasu

It is necessary to prepare the base.

You need to adjust the base.

• 下地 (shitaji) - base, foundation
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 整える (tottaeru) - tidy up, prepare
• 必要 (hitsuyou) - necessary
• が (ga) - subject particle
• あります (arimasu) - there is, there is

体制を整える必要がある。

Taisei wo totonoeru hitsuyou ga aru

It is necessary to establish a system.

It is necessary to prepare the system.

• 体制 - means "system" or "structure" in Japanese.
• を - object particle in Japanese, indicating that "体制" is the object of the sentence.
• 整える - verb that means "adjust" or "organize" in Japanese.
• 必要 - Adjective meaning "necessary" or "essential" in Japanese.
• が - Subject particle in Japanese, indicating that "必要" is the subject of the sentence.
• ある - verb meaning "to exist" or "to have" in Japanese, indicating that the action of "整える" is necessary.

態勢を整える必要がある。

Taisei wo totonoeru hitsuyou ga aru

It is necessary to adjust the posture.

You need to be ready.

• 態勢 - posture, position, attitude
• を - direct object particle
• 整える - arrange, adjust, prepare
• 必要 - necessity, essential
• が - subject particle
• ある - existir, ter

軍備を整える必要がある。

Gunbi wo totonoeru hitsuyou ga aru

It is necessary to prepare the Armed Forces.

It is necessary to prepare the weaponry.

• 軍備 - armament, military equipment
• を - direct object particle
• 整える - prepare, organize, tidy up
• 必要 - necessity, essential
• が - subject particle
• ある - exist, have