Translation and Meaning of: 泳ぎ - oyogi

The Japanese word 泳ぎ (およぎ, oyogi) is essential for anyone looking to learn the language or understand more about Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in daily life. Additionally, we will see tips for memorizing the term and curiosities that make this word even more interesting. If you are looking for reliable information about 泳ぎ, you have come to the right place!

Meaning and usage of 泳ぎ

泳ぎ is a noun that means "swimming" or "the act of swimming." It derives from the verb 泳ぐ (およぐ, oyogu), which means "to swim." This word is often used in sports contexts, water activities, or even in everyday expressions. For example, if someone says 泳ぎが上手 (およぎがじょうず, oyogi ga jouzu), it means that the person is good at swimming.

In Japan, swimming is a very popular activity, both as a sport and as a life skill. Many schools include swimming lessons in their curriculum, and competitions such as the National Swimming Championship are widely followed. Therefore, 泳ぎ is a word that frequently appears in conversations and educational materials.

Origin and writing of the kanji 泳

The kanji 泳 is composed of the radical 氵(さんずい, sanzui), which is related to water, and the component 永 (えい, ei), meaning "eternal" or "long". This combination suggests the idea of continuous movement in water, effectively representing the act of swimming. The kanji itself is classified as intermediate level, often taught in Japanese elementary education.

It is worth noting that 泳ぎ is one of the words that exemplifies how radicals help to understand the meaning of kanji. Knowing that the radical 氵 is present in other terms related to water, such as 海 (うみ, umi - "sea") and 池 (いけ, ike - "pond"), can aid in memorization.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 泳ぎ is to associate it with concrete images or situations. For example, thinking of someone swimming in a pool or in the sea can help solidify the term. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as 今日は泳ぎに行きます (きょうはおよぎにいきます, kyou wa oyogi ni ikimasu - "Today I'm going swimming").

An interesting fact is that, in Japan, many school swimming competitions are called 泳ぎ大会 (およぎたいかい, oyogi taikai). These events are taken seriously and are often broadcast on local TV, demonstrating how Japanese culture values sports and discipline from an early age.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

水泳 (Suiei) - Swimming
水中運動 (Suichuu Undou) - Water exercise (general, may include activities beyond swimming)
水中泳ぎ (Suichuu Oyagi) - Swim underwater (emphasizes the action of swimming)
水泳競技 (Suiei Kyōgi) - Swimming competition (emphasizes the competitive aspect)
水泳運動 (Suiei Undou) - Swimming activities (may include swimming as a form of exercise)