Translation and Meaning of: 暗示 - anji

If you've ever watched an anime or read a manga, you've probably come across the word 暗示 [あんじ] at some point. It appears in dialogues about strategies, mysteries, or even in everyday situations, but what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will delve into the etymology, usage, and origin of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it and curiosities that go beyond the dictionary. If you're here because you want to better understand the meaning of 暗示 or how to use it in sentences, know that we will also discuss its pictogram and practical examples for you to study in Anki or another spaced repetition system.

The term 暗示 is more than just a simple translation for "hint" or "suggestion." It carries cultural and even psychological nuances, depending on the context. Many people search on Google not only for the meaning but also for how to differentiate it from similar words or how to apply it in real conversations. And that’s exactly what you will discover here, straightforward and with accurate information.

Etymology and Origin of 暗示

The word 暗示 is composed of two kanji: 暗 (あん - an), which means "dark" or "hidden", and 示 (じ - ji), which can be translated as "to show" or "to indicate". Together, they form the idea of something that is "shown indirectly" or "implied". This combination is not random—it accurately reflects the concept behind the word, which involves conveying a message without stating it openly.

Interestingly, the use of 暗示 dates back to the Edo period, when indirect communication was valued in Japanese culture. At that time, being too direct could be considered rude, so people used 暗示 to convey messages more subtly. This cultural trait still persists today, especially in formal situations or when one wants to avoid conflicts.

Common Uses and Contexts

Have you ever received a look from someone that seemed to say more than words could express? Well, that's a type of 暗示 non-verbal communication. In Japan, this word is often used in contexts where the message needs to be conveyed discreetly, whether in personal relationships, business, or even in the plots of dramas and books. For example, a teacher may give 暗示 about the content of a test without revealing exactly what will be covered.

Another interesting use is in psychology and advertising. Japanese ads often employ 暗示 to influence the consumer without them clearly realizing it. If you've ever seen a commercial that doesn't directly talk about the product but creates an atmosphere that associates it with something positive, know that this is a practical application of the concept.

Tips for Memorizing and Curiosities

If you are struggling to remember how to write 暗示, a useful technique is to associate the first kanji (暗) with "something hidden" and the second (示) with "to show." Imagine that you are discreetly revealing a secret—this mental image can help cement the meaning. Another tip is to create flashcards with everyday phrases, like 「彼は暗示で伝えた」 (He conveyed it through a suggestion).

A fun fact is that 暗示 appears quite often in guessing games or riddles, which are popular in Japan. Furthermore, it is frequently used in suspense manga, where characters leave subtle clues for the reader to decipher. If you are a fan of this genre, paying attention to these details can be a great way to absorb vocabulary naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 示唆 (shisa) - Suggestion or hint.
• 仄めかし (honomekashi) - Insinuation or subtle allusion; light implication.
• ほのめかし (honomekashi) - Insinuation or subtle allusion; light implication. (hiragana form)
• ほのめき (honomeki) - A glimmer or hint; a slight suggestion.
• 仄示 (honomiji) - Indication or subtle suggestion.
• あてこすり (atekosuri) - Insinuation or implicit allusion, often provocative.
• あてこむ (atekome) - Insinuation or reference to something indirectly.
• ほのめかす (honomekasu) - Insinuate or suggest something.
• ほのめく (honomeku) - Emit a slight signal or indication; shine faintly.

暗示

Romaji: anji
Kana: あんじ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: tip; suggestion

Meaning in English: hint;suggestion

Definition: to suggest something.

Example Sentences - (暗示) anji

See below some example sentences:

彼女は暗示を与えた。

Kanojo wa anji o ataeta

She gave a suggestion.

• 彼女 - means "she" in Japanese.
• は - topic particle in Japanese, which indicates that the subject of the sentence is "she".
• 暗示 - means "suggestion" in Japanese.
• を - object particle in Japanese, which indicates that "suggestion" is the direct object of the sentence.
• 与えた - means "gave" in Japanese, in the past tense.