Translation and Meaning of: 次ぐ - tsugu

The Japanese word 次ぐ [つぐ] is a verb that carries important meanings in everyday life and culture in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding its usage, translation, and context can be essential to expanding your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the meaning of 次ぐ, its origin, how it is used in sentences, and some tips for memorizing it effectively. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and accurate explanations for those who wish to truly learn Japanese.

Meaning and translation of 次ぐ

The verb 次ぐ [つぐ] has as its main meaning "to follow," "to come after," or "to succeed." It is often used to indicate a sequence, whether in time, in a hierarchy, or in an order of events. For example, it can describe someone who takes a position after another person or an event that occurs soon after another.

In translations to Portuguese, 次ぐ can appear as "succeed," "proceed," or "be in sequence." However, its use goes beyond the literal sense, as it also reflects the importance of order and continuity in Japanese culture. This notion of succession is valued in various aspects of society, from business to family traditions.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 次ぐ is 次, which by itself means "next" or "following." It is composed of the radical 欠 (which represents "opening" or "lack") and the component 冫 (related to "ice" or "cold"). Although these elements do not have a direct connection to the current meaning, the evolution of the kanji over time has solidified its association with the idea of sequence.

It is worth noting that 次 also appears in other words, such as 次回 (next time) and 次第 (depending on). This versatility reinforces its importance in the Japanese vocabulary and helps to understand why 次ぐ is so commonly used in daily life.

Everyday use and practical examples

In Japan, 次ぐ is used in both formal and informal situations, especially when discussing succession or order. A common example is in the workplace, where an employee may "succeed" a colleague in a higher position. It also appears in sports contexts, such as when a team holds second place in a competition.

In addition, the word is used in fixed expressions and proverbs, demonstrating its relevance in the Japanese language. Its tone is neutral, functioning both in casual conversations and in more serious speeches. For those who are learning, observing its use in news or Japanese dramas can be a great way to reinforce its meaning.

Tips for memorizing 次ぐ

An effective way to remember 次ぐ is to associate it with the kanji 次, which appears in many other words related to sequence and order. Creating flashcards with practical sentences also helps, especially if they are based on real situations, such as "He succeeded the president" (社長を次いだ).

Another tip is to pay attention to how the word is used in different contexts, whether in songs, series, or even in newspaper headlines. The more you familiarize yourself with its usage, the more natural it will be to incorporate it into your active vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 次ぐ

• 次ぐ - Present form
• 次がれる - potential form
• 次ぎます - Polished form

Synonyms and similar words

• 続く (tsuzuku) - Continue; proceed (referring to something that extends over time)
• 続ける (tsuzukeru) - Continue; maintain (to act in a way that something proceeds, usually in an action context)
• 継ぐ (tsugu) - Heritage; to succeed (to take over the continuation of something, like a legacy or tradition)
• 継続する (keizoku suru) - Continue; persist (to maintain an action or state, emphasizing continuity)

次ぐ

Romaji: tsugu
Kana: つぐ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: to classify beside; come

Meaning in English: to rank next to;to come after

Definition: To be followed. This is done continuously.

Example Sentences - (次ぐ) tsugu

See below some example sentences:

彼は次ぐ者がいない。

Kare wa tsugu mono ga inai

He has no one to succeed him.

He doesn't have the next one.

• 彼 - The Japanese personal pronoun that means "he" is "彼" (kare).
• は - topic particle that indicates the theme of the sentence, in this case "he"
• 次ぐ - Japanese verb that means "to follow", "to come after" or "to surpass"
• 者 - Japanese noun meaning "person"
• が - subject particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, in this case "person"
• いない - Japanese verb in negative form that means "does not exist" or "there is not"

私は電話を取り次ぐことができます。

Watashi wa denwa o toritsugu koto ga dekimasu

I can pass the call.

I can hand over the phone.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case "I"
• 電話 (denwa) - noun meaning "telephone"
• を (wo) - particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence, in this case "telefone"
• 取り次ぐ (toritsugu) - The verb "to transfer (a phone call) to another person"
• こと (koto) - noun indicating an action or abstract event, in this case, "transfer a call"
• が (ga) - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, in this case "I"
• できます (dekimasu) - Verb that means "to be able to"