Translation and Meaning of: 欠く - kaku

The Japanese word 欠く[かく] is a verb that carries deep meanings and various uses in everyday Japan. Whether you're studying Japanese or just curious about this expression, understanding its meaning, origin, and applications can be very helpful. In this article, we will explore everything about 欠く, from its translation to practical tips for memorizing and using it correctly. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides this information clearly and reliably for you.

Meaning and translation of 欠く

The verb 欠く[かく] is often translated as "to lack," "to be deficient," or "to be missing." It can be used in both concrete and abstract contexts, indicating the absence of something essential. For example, when someone says "時間を欠く" (jikan o kaku), it means that there is a lack of time to complete a task.

In addition, 欠く (kaku) can also express the idea of "failing to do" something important, as in "礼儀を欠く" (reigi o kaku), which refers to a lack of education or courtesy. This versatility makes the word quite commonly used in both formal and informal conversations, highlighting its relevance in the Japanese language.

Origin and writing of the kanji 欠

The kanji 欠, which forms the word 欠く, has an interesting history. It represents the idea of "lack" or "opening" and is derived from an ancient pictogram that symbolized a mouth yawning. This radical appears in other terms related to absence, such as 欠席 (kesseki - absence) and 欠点 (ketten - flaw).

It is worth noting that the kanji 欠 can also be read as "ketsu" in compounds, but its most common reading as a verb is "kaku." Understanding this etymological root helps to clarify why the word is associated with ideas of lack or incompleteness, making it easier to memorize.

How to use 欠く in daily life

In Japan, 欠く is a word that frequently appears in everyday situations, especially in contexts that require formality. If you are in a work environment, for example, you might hear phrases like "この計画は詳細を欠いている" (kono keikaku wa shousai o kaite iru), indicating that the plan lacks important details.

Another common use is in fixed expressions, such as "常識を欠く" (joushiki o kaku), which means "lack of common sense". Mastering these language patterns not only improves your vocabulary but also helps to avoid faux pas in conversations with natives. Therefore, it is worth practicing with real and contextualized examples.