Translation and Meaning of: 注目 - chuumoku

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, you have probably come across the word 注目[ちゅうもく]. It appears frequently in conversations, news, and even in animes, but what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this expression, as well as understand how it fits into everyday Japanese life. If you are looking for a reliable dictionary to deepen your studies, Suki Nihongo is a great option to consult terms like this.

Meaning and translation of 注目

The word 注目[ちゅうもく] is made up of the kanjis 注 (concentrate, pour) and 目 (eye), combining to convey the idea of "focusing the gaze" or "paying attention." In English, it can be translated as "attention," "highlight," or "close observation." Unlike other similar expressions, it carries a more active tone, suggesting that something or someone is being deliberately observed.

An interesting detail is that 注目 is not limited to just the visual sense. It can also indicate mental attention, as when something gains relevance in a discussion. For example, if a new product is "drawing attention" in the market, the Japanese may say that it is 注目を集めている (chūmoku o atsumete iru).

How and when to use 注目 in everyday life

In daily life, 注目 appears in various contexts. It can be used to highlight trends, such as in "最近注目の映画" (the movie that is currently in the spotlight), or even in public notices, like signs that ask for ご注目ください (please pay attention). It is a versatile word, but its use is often related to situations where there is an intentional focus.

It is worth noting that, although it is common in news and announcements, 注目 is not as frequent in informal conversations. Japanese people tend to opt for simpler expressions like 見て (mite – look) or 聞いて (kiite – listen) when they want to quickly get someone’s attention. On the other hand, in formal texts or reports, 注目 is more prevalent.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 注目 is to associate its kanjis with the action of "pouring your eyes" onto something – after all, 注 refers to liquid and 目 to vision. This mental image helps to remember that the word is related to observing with interest. Another tip is to practice with phrases like 注目の的 (target of attention) or 注目度 (level of attention), which are common in journalistic articles.

Culturally, 注目 reflects an interesting aspect of Japanese society: the value placed on careful observation before acting. It's no surprise that the word is often used in contexts where analysis and discernment are important, such as in technological launches or public debates. If you watch animes or dramas, you have probably heard it in scenes where a character or event becomes central to the plot.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 注視 (chūshi) - Observar atentamente
• 着目 (chakumoku) - Focus attention; pay attention
• 注意 (chūi) - Cuidado; atenção
• 注意深い (chūibukai) - Cautious; careful
• 注意する (chūi suru) - Pay attention; take care
• 見る (miru) - Ver; olhar
• 見つめる (mitsumeru) - Olhar fixamente
• 見守る (mi mamoru) - Observe carefully; watch
• 目を向ける (me o mukeru) - Directing the gaze; focusing
• 目を引く (me o hiku) - Call attention
• 目を奪う (me o ubau) - Captivating attention; fascinating
• 目を惹く (me o hiku) - Attract attention in an appealing way
• 目を引かせる (me o hikasero) - Make it attention-grabbing
• 目を奪われる (me o ubawareru) - To be captivated; to be fascinated
• 目を惹かせる (me o hikaseru) - To attract the eye; to provoke interest.
• 目を引くような (me o hiku you na) - Something that grabs attention
• 目を奪うような (me o ubau you na) - Something fascinating; something captivating
• 目を惹くような (me o hiku you na) - Something that catches the eye
• 目を引かせるような (me o hikasero you na) - Something that draws attention
• 目を奪われるような (me o ubawareru you na) - Something that is capable of captivating
• 目を惹かせるような (me o hikaseru you na) - Something that provokes visual attraction

注目

Romaji: chuumoku
Kana: ちゅうもく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: Notice; attention; observation

Meaning in English: notice;attention;observation

Definition: Being focused and interested in people and things.

Example Sentences - (注目) chuumoku

See below some example sentences:

注目されることは素晴らしいことです。

Chūmoku sareru koto wa subarashī koto desu

Being noticed is a wonderful thing.

It's great to be noticed.

• 注目されること - "being noticed" or "being recognized"
• は - Topic particle
• 素晴らしいこと - "wonderful thing" or "something excellent"
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form