Translation and Meaning of: 書き取る - kakitoru

If you are learning Japanese, you may have come across the verb 書き取る (かきとる). This word may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances in its meaning and everyday use. In this article, we will explore what it really means, how it originated, and in what contexts Japanese people use it. Additionally, we will see practical tips for memorizing it and how it appears in daily situations. Whether for study or curiosity, understanding 書き取る can enrich your vocabulary and aid in communication.

The meaning and origin of 書き取る

The verb 書き取る is composed of two kanji: 書く (to write) and 取る (to take, to capture). Together, they convey the idea of "writing something that has been said or heard," which means to transcribe or take notes. This construction is common in Japanese, where verbs are often combined to create more specific meanings.

Although there are no exact historical records of when this word emerged, its formation follows a logical pattern of the Japanese language. The act of writing what is heard was essential in bureaucratic and educational contexts, which may have contributed to the development of this term. Today, it is used in both formal and informal situations, always with the idea of recording verbalized information.

How 書き取る is used in everyday life.

In Japan, 書き取る often appears in academic and professional settings. Teachers may ask students to 書き取る the content of the lesson, while secretaries often use the verb to describe the action of taking notes or minutes of meetings. The word is also useful in more casual situations, such as when someone needs to jot down a phone number dictated by a friend.

An interesting detail is that, although there are other terms for "to write" in Japanese, such as 記す (しるす) or メモする (memorar), 書き取る has a clear focus on the action of capturing spoken information. This makes it more precise in certain contexts, avoiding ambiguities.

Tips for memorizing and using 書き取る

An effective way to reinforce 書き取る is to associate it with practical situations. Think of moments when you need to jot something down quickly, like a recipe someone is explaining or instructions given orally. Repeating phrases like "先生の話を書き取る" (write down what the teacher says) also helps to internalize the verb.

Another tip is to observe the kanji 取る, which appears in other verbs such as 聞き取る (to listen and understand) or 撮り取る (to capture an image). Noticing these patterns makes it easier to learn related terms. If you use apps like Suki Nihongo, you can practice with real examples and audio from natives.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 書き取る

• 書き取る - Negative form: 書き取らない
• 書き取る - Passive form: 書き取られる
• 書き取る - Causative form: 書き取らせる
• 書き取る - Potential form: 書き取れる
• 書き取る - Imperative form: 書き取れ

Synonyms and similar words

• 記す (shirusu) - Register or jot down information in writing.
• メモする (memo suru) - Make quick notes or memos.
• ノートする (nōto suru) - Take detailed notes, usually during classes or meetings.
• 採る (toru) - Capture or collect information or data, in a broader sense.
• 筆記する (hikki suru) - Writing or composing texts, more formal and structured.

書き取る

Romaji: kakitoru
Kana: かきとる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to write; dictate; take notes

Meaning in English: to write down;to take dictation;to take notes

Definition: Write words, symbols, etc. as letters.

Example Sentences - (書き取る) kakitoru

See below some example sentences:

書き取ることは大切です。

Kakitoru koto wa taisetsu desu

Writing is important.

• 書き取る - verb that means "to write" or "to note"
• こと - noun meaning "thing" or "fact"
• は - particle that indicates the theme of the sentence, in this case "to write" or "to note"
• 大切 - Adjective meaning "important" or "valuable".
• です - linking verb that indicates the present tense and the formality of the sentence