Translation and Meaning of: 漕ぐ - kogu

The Japanese word 漕ぐ [こぐ] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. Its main meaning is related to the act of rowing, but its usage goes beyond nautical contexts. In this article, we will explore everything from writing and pronunciation to curiosities about how this word is used in everyday Japanese. If you have used Suki Nihongo to study, you know that details like these make a difference in learning.

In addition to being a useful verb for practical situations, 漕ぐ also appears in expressions and less literal contexts. Understanding these applications helps not only to memorize the word but also to perceive how it fits into Japanese culture. Let's unravel from its origin to tips on not confusing it with other similar terms.

Meaning and usage of 漕ぐ

The verb 漕ぐ has the most direct translation of "to row," referring to the movement of propelling a boat with oars. However, its use extends to other actions that involve repetitive movement or physical effort. For example, it can describe the act of pedaling a bicycle, especially in informal contexts. This semantic flexibility is common in Japanese verbs that describe cyclical movements.

In everyday situations, you may hear 漕ぐ being used both literally – as in aquatic activities – and metaphorically. An interesting example is its use in slang to indicate intense effort in a task, although this usage is more colloquial. The versatility of the word makes it common in daily dialogues, especially in regions with a strong maritime culture.

Writing and components of kanji

The kanji 漕 is composed of the water radical (氵) on the left, indicating its relation to aquatic activities, and the component 曹 on the right, which historically represented groups working together. This combination visually reinforces the idea of collective movement in water, such as the act of rowing. The presence of the water radical helps distinguish it from similar verbs that do not have this connection.

It is worth noting that 漕ぐ is a verb of group 1 (godan), which influences its conjugation. The reading こぐ is the most common, but the same kanji can have other pronunciations in compounds, such as 漕艇 (そうてい) for "rowing boat." This consistency in writing, even with varied readings, is a valuable characteristic for students looking to systematically expand their vocabulary.

Cultural context and curiosities

In Japan, where activities like kayaking and traditional boat trips are popular, 漕ぐ frequently appears in tourist guides and safety instructions. Regions like Okinawa and areas with navigable rivers tend to use this verb more in daily life. Furthermore, the term is present in the names of water festivals and rowing competitions, showcasing its cultural roots.

A verifiable curiosity is the use of 漕ぐ in manga and anime with sports or adventure themes. Works like "One Piece" and "Golden Kamuy" employ the term in nautical scenes, often with nuances of teamwork. This media exposure helps solidify the meaning of the word for students, associating it with memorable visual contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 漕ぐ

• 漕ぐ -
• 漕ぎます - polite form
• 漕ぎましょう Polite command form
• 漕いで - Casual imperative form

Synonyms and similar words

• こぐ (kogu) - slice, row
• かじる (kajiru) - munch, gnaw
• こぎわける (kogi wakeru) - remar and differentiate, distinguish while rowing
• よぎる (yogiru) - cross, pass quickly
• よいとする (yoitosuru) - to become good, to decide that something is good
• よいとすれば (yoitosureba) - if one considers it good
• よいとしたら (yoitotashitara) - if it were considered good

漕ぐ

Romaji: kogu
Kana: こぐ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to row; to dry; to bike

Meaning in English: to row;to scull;to pedal

Definition: Use your feet to move in the water.

Example Sentences - (漕ぐ) kogu

See below some example sentences:

ボートで湖を漕ぐのはとても楽しいです。

Bōto de mizuumi wo kogu no wa totemo tanoshii desu

Rowing a boat in a lake is a lot of fun.

It's a lot of fun to row a lake with a boat.

• ボート (bōto) - boat
• で (de) - in, with
• 湖 (mizuumi) - lake
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 漕ぐ (kogu) - remar
• の (no) - Possession particle
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• とても (totemo) - very
• 楽しい (tanoshii) - Fun, pleasant
• です (desu) - Verb to be/estar in the present

私はカヌーを漕ぐのが好きです。

Watashi wa kanū o kogu no ga suki desu

I like to paddle by canoe.

I like the canoeing row.

• 私 - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• カヌー - Japanese word meaning "canoeing"
• を - object particle indicating the direct object of the action
• 漕ぐ - Japanese verb meaning "to row"
• のが - particle that indicates the subject of the noun phrase
• 好き - adjective in Japanese that means "to like"
• です - linking verb that indicates formality and the present tense

舟を漕いで川を渡ります。

Fune wo koide kawa wo watari masu

I'll row a boat across the river.

Laugh the boat and cross the river.

• 舟 - boat
• を - Particle that indicates the object of the action
• 漕いで - remando
• 川 - river
• を - Particle that indicates the object of the action
• 渡ります - crossing