Translation and Meaning of: 測る - hakaru
The Japanese word 測る [はかる] is a verb that carries practical and everyday meanings, but also reveals interesting nuances about the language and culture of Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in languages, understanding how and when to use 測る can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, writing in kanji, and examples of real use.
In addition, we will see how this word connects with everyday situations, from scientific measurements to simple gestures, such as checking the time or the temperature. Whether to expand your knowledge or to use in conversations, 測る is one of those words worth mastering. Shall we get started?
Meaning and use of 測る [はかる]
The verb 測る has the main meaning of "to measure" or "to assess." It is used in contexts where there is a need to quantify something, whether it's a distance, time, temperature, or even feelings. For example, in phrases like 温度を測る (to measure the temperature) or 距離を測る (to measure the distance), the word appears in a direct and objective manner.
However, 測る can also be used in more subjective situations, such as when someone tries to "assess" another person's reaction (反応を測る). This flexibility makes the verb quite versatile, appearing in both informal conversations and technical texts. Its use is more common in situations involving physical measurements, but it is not limited to them.
Origin and writing in kanji
The kanji 測 is composed of the radical 氵 (related to water) and the component 則 (which conveys the idea of rule or measure). This combination suggests a historical connection with the measurement of liquids or land, something essential in agrarian societies like ancient Japan. The presence of the water radical may indicate that, originally, the term was associated with measurements of rivers or volumes.
It is worth noting that 測る is not the only Japanese verb that means "to measure". It shares space with words like 量る (for weight) and 計る (for time and quantities), each with its own particularities. Despite the subtle differences, 測る is the most comprehensive and commonly used in daily life, especially when it comes to dimensions or objective assessments.
Tips for memorizing and using correctly
An effective way to remember 測る is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of actions like measuring the length of a piece of furniture (家具の長さを測る) or checking the depth of a swimming pool (プールの深さを測る). These examples help create mental connections that make memorization easier, especially if you practice with real sentences.
Another useful tip is to pay attention to the kanji 測 in compound words, such as 測定 (measurement) or 測量 (surveying). These terms frequently appear in manuals, news, and even in animes that involve science or engineering. Recognizing the kanji in different contexts reinforces your learning and naturally expands your vocabulary.
Vocabulary
Expand your vocabulary with related words:
Synonyms and similar words
- 計る (hakaru) - measure, calculate (usually used for quantities or times)
- 量る (hakaru) - measure, weigh (more commonly used for physical quantities, such as weight or volume)
Related words
Romaji: hakaru
Kana: はかる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n2
Translation / Meaning: measure; to weight; to research; for time (sound meter estimate)
Meaning in English: to measure;to weigh;to survey;to time (sound gauge estimate)
Definition: To know the quantity or size of something.
Quick Access
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How to Write in Japanese - (測る) hakaru
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (測る) hakaru:
Example Sentences - (測る) hakaru
See below some example sentences:
Mētoru wa nagasa o hakaru tame no tan'i desu
Metro is a unit of measure for length.
The meter is a unit to measure the length.
- メートル - unit of measurement of length
- は - Topic particle
- 長さ - Length
- を - direct object particle
- 測る - measure
- ため - purpose
- の - Possession particle
- 単位 - unidade
- です - verb ser (polite form)
Hakaru koto ga taisetsu desu
Measuring is important.
It is important to measure.
- 測る - measure, evaluate
- こと - thing, subject
- が - subject particle
- 大切 - important, valuable
- です - Verb to be/estar in the present
Kakudo wo hakaru koto ga taisetsu desu
It is important to measure the angle.
- 角度 (kakudo) - angle
- を (wo) - object particle
- 測る (hakaru) - measure
- こと (koto) - abstract noun
- が (ga) - subject particle
- 大切 (taisetsu) - important
- です (desu) - Verb to be/estar
Sokuryō o okonau hitsuyō ga arimasu
It is necessary to carry out the measurement.
You need to carry out the survey.
- 測量 - measurement
- を - object particle
- 行う - accomplish
- 必要 - Necessary
- が - Subject particle
- あります - Exists
Kono monosashi de nagasa wo hakatte kudasai
Please measure the length with this ruler.
Measure the length with this ruler.
- この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this"
- 物差し - noun meaning "ruler"
- で - particle that indicates the means or tool used to carry out the action
- 長さ - noun meaning "length"
- を - Particle indicating the direct object of the action.
- 測って - verb "測る" in the affirmative imperative, which means "to measure"
- ください - verb "くださる" in the affirmative imperative, which means "please"
Ketsuatsu wo hakarimashou
Let's measure blood pressure.
- 血圧 - blood pressure
- を - object particle
- 測り - measure
- ましょう - polite form of the verb "to do"
Other Words of this Type: noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: noun
