Translation and Meaning of: 染みる - shimiru

The Japanese word 染みる [しみる] is a verb that carries deep meanings and various applications in everyday life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its use and nuances can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore from the basic meaning to the cultural contexts in which this word appears, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

染みる is a term that can be translated in different ways depending on the context, including "to impregnate," "to penetrate," or even "to mark." Its use goes beyond the literal sense, often appearing in emotional or descriptive expressions. Let's unveil how this word works in practice and why it is so interesting for learners of Japanese.

Meaning and uses of 染みる

The verb 染みる has as its main meaning the idea of something penetrating or infiltrating another substance. For example, when a liquid like coffee stains a fabric, it is said that it 染みる. However, its use is not limited to the physical. It can also describe sensations that "hit deeply," like a cold that seems to enter the bones or an emotion that touches the heart.

In more abstract contexts, 染みる can be used to express that something has left a lasting mark, whether it's a memory, a lesson, or even a habit. This versatility makes the word appear in everyday conversations, literature, and even in Japanese song lyrics, demonstrating its relevance in communication.

Origin and structure of the kanji 染

The kanji 染, which is part of the word 染みる, is made up of the radicals for "water" (氵) and "nine" (九), suggesting the idea of something that spreads or mixes. Historically, this character was associated with the dyeing of fabrics, a process where color penetrates the material. Over time, its meaning expanded to include more abstract concepts, such as influences that permeate the mind or spirit.

It is worth noting that the reading しみる is one of the several possible readings for the kanji 染, which can also be read as "sen" in compounds such as 染色 (senshoku - dyeing). This duality between on'yomi and kun'yomi readings is common in Japanese and emphasizes the importance of studying kanji in their different contexts.

Tips for memorizing 染みる

An effective way to remember 染みる is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of a coffee stain on a white shirt — the visual image helps recall that the verb describes something that penetrates and leaves a mark. Another strategy is to create simple sentences, such as "このコーヒーはシャツに染みた" (This coffee stained the shirt), to practice correct usage.

Furthermore, observing the presence of 染みる in dramas, animes, or songs can solidify your understanding. Often, the word appears in emotional contexts, such as in "あなたの言葉が心に染みた" (Your words penetrated my heart), which helps to capture its deeper nuance. Repeating these examples out loud also improves pronunciation and familiarity with the term.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 染みる

• 染まる - potential form
• 染みます - Polished form
• 染まらない - negative form
• 染まった - past form

Synonyms and similar words

• 滲む (Nijimu) - to be transparent, to leak slightly
• 染み込む (Shimikomu) - absorb, filter in essence
• 浸透する (Shintō suru) - to penetrate, to infiltrate, like a liquid that spreads
• 染み出る (Shimidaru) - leave, spill, especially from a stain or liquid
• 染み入る (Shimiiru) - to dive deep, to root oneself (in feelings or memories)
• 染みつく (Shimitsuku) - to settle, to become a permanent stain
• 染み込み (Shimikomi) - absorption process, the act of infiltrating
• 染み出す (Shimidasu) - to start leaking or manifesting
• 染み込んだ (Shimikonda) - what was absorbed, infused
• 染み込んでいる (Shimikonde irū) - is absorbed, impregnated
• 染み込んだ臭い (Shimikonda nioi) - lingering scent
• 染み込んだ汗 (Shimikonda ase) - sweat-soaked
• 染み込んだ血 (Shimikonda chi) - impregnated blood
• 染み込んだ色 (Shimikonda iro) - impregnated color
• 染み込んだ痕跡 (Shimikonda konseki) - mark or trace that has been absorbed
• 染み込んだ匂い (Shimikonda nioi) - scent that was absorbed
• 染み込んだ思い出 (Shimikonda omoide) - deeply ingrained memories
• 染み込んだ感情 (Shimikonda kanjō) - deeply ingrained emotions
• 染み込んだ味 (Shimikonda aji) - flavor that was absorbed

染みる

Romaji: shimiru
Kana: しみる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to drill; to permeate

Meaning in English: to pierce;to permeate

Definition: Liquids or colors soak into the fabrics, etc.