Translation and Meaning of: 淡水 - tansui

The Japanese word 淡水 [たんすい] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. In addition, we will see some practical tips for memorizing it and understanding its context in sentences and real situations.

If you've ever wondered what 淡水 means or how to use it correctly, this guide will help you. Here at Suki Nihongo, we always strive to provide clear and detailed explanations about Japanese vocabulary, and this time will be no different. Let's get straight to the point, without beating around the bush, so you can learn efficiently.

Meaning and origin of 淡水

The word 淡水 is composed of two kanjis: 淡 (tan), which means "light" or "gentle," and 水 (sui), which means "water." Together, they form the term that translates as "freshwater." This combination is quite logical, since freshwater is less salty and "gentler" than seawater.

The use of 淡水 dates back to the period when Japan began to systematize its writing, incorporating terms that accurately described natural elements. Unlike some words that have undergone radical changes over the centuries, 淡水 has maintained its original meaning, still being used today to refer to rivers, lakes, and other sources of freshwater.

Everyday use and practical examples

In daily life, 淡水 appears in contexts such as geography, biology, and even in discussions about ecology. For example, when talking about freshwater fish, it is common to hear 淡水魚 (たんすいぎょ, "freshwater fish"). This type of usage shows how the word is rooted in both technical and casual discussions.

Another practical example is in travel. If you are in Japan and want to ask about a nearby lake or river, you can use 淡水 in your question. Phrases like "Is there a freshwater lake nearby?" demonstrate how the term is applicable in real situations.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 淡水 is to associate the kanjis that compose it with their meanings. As mentioned, 淡 brings the idea of something diluted or soft, while 水 means water. Together, they form the mental image of "soft water," that is, fresh water. This technique of breaking down kanjis is useful for many other words in Japanese.

Interestingly, 淡水 also appears in place names in Japan, such as the city of Tansui in some regions. Although not extremely common, this usage reinforces the importance of the term in describing geographical characteristics. Knowing this can help further cement the word in your vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 清水 (Shimizu) - Clean water, usually used to refer to natural pure water.
• 純水 (Jun sui) - Pure water, often referring to distilled or chemically treated water to remove impurities.
• 無色透明な水 (Mushoku toumei na mizu) - Colorless and transparent water, a technical description of water that has no color or turbidity.
• きれいな水 (Kirei na mizu) - Beautiful water, emphasizing the clean and pleasant appearance of the water.

淡水

Romaji: tansui
Kana: たんすい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Fresh water

Meaning in English: fresh water

Definition: Water that accumulates in the soil and has a salt concentration different from seawater.

Example Sentences - (淡水) tansui

See below some example sentences:

淡水は台湾の北部にある美しい港町です。

Dansui wa Taiwan no hokubu ni aru utsukushii koumachi desu

Danshui is a beautiful port city located in the northern part of Taiwan.

Tamami is a beautiful port city in the northern part of Taiwan.

• 淡水 - Name of the city of Tamsui
• は - Topic particle
• 台湾 - Taiwan
• の - Possessive particle
• 北部 - Region norte
• に - Location particle
• ある - Verb "to be" in the present
• 美しい - Adjective "beautiful"
• 港町 - harbor
• です - Verb "to be" in the present