Translation and Meaning of: 澄む - sumu

The Japanese word 澄む [すむ] is a term rich in meaning and applications, often associated with clarity and purity. If you are learning Japanese or are curious about this expression, understanding its use and context can enrich your vocabulary and cultural understanding. In this article, we will explore the meaning of 澄む, its origin, practical examples, and how it is perceived in Japan.

In addition to being a common verb in everyday life, 澄む carries nuances that reflect Japanese values, such as appreciation for nature and simplicity. Whether for students of the Japanese language or enthusiasts of the culture, knowing this word can open doors to more authentic communication. Let's dive into the details that make 澄む such a special expression.

Meaning and usage of 澄む

澄む is a verb that means "to become clear," "to become pure," or "to clarify." It is often used to describe liquids, such as water, that become transparent after impurities settle. For example, one can say that a river is 澄んでいる (clear) after the rain passes and the dirt settles.

In addition to its literal meaning, 澄む also has a figurative sense, applied to emotions and mental states. When someone is calm or has a serene mind, one can say that their heart is 澄んでいる. This duality between the physical and the emotional makes the word a versatile tool in the Japanese language.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 澄 is composed of the water radical (氵) and the component 登, which suggests elevation or ascent. This combination reinforces the idea of something that purifies as it rises, like impurities that separate from water when it rests. The etymology reflects well the current meaning of the word, related to clarity and purity.

It is worth noting that 澄む is one of the many Japanese verbs that describe states of transparency and clarity. Its kanji writing is essential to differentiate it from phonetically similar words, such as 住む (to live) or 済む (to finish). Mastering this character helps avoid confusion in learning.

Cultural usage and common expressions

In Japan, 澄む is not just an everyday word, but also a concept present in traditions and arts. For example, in the tea ceremony, the water used must be 澄んでいる, symbolizing purity and harmony. Similarly, natural landscapes such as lakes and rivers are often described with this term in poetry and literature.

An interesting expression that includes 澄む is 心が澄む (kokoro ga sumu), which means "the heart calms down." This phrase captures the idea of mental and emotional clarity, something valued in practices like meditation and martial arts. Understanding these usages helps to recognize how the Japanese language connects the physical to the spiritual.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 澄む

• 澄む - dictionary form
• 澄まない - Negative
• 澄んでいる - Continuous form
• 澄んだ - simple past
• 澄みます - Formal
• 澄んでください - imperative

Synonyms and similar words

• 澄み渡る (sumiwataru) - To expand or spread clearly, usually used to describe the clear and bright sky.
• 透き通る (sukitōru) - Being transparent means indicating clarity in something that can be seen through.
• 澄み切る (sumikiru) - To be completely clear or clean, both in relation to the mind and the space or environment.
• 澄みきる (sumikiru) - Similar to 澄み切る, emphasizes the idea of being completely clear or purified.

澄む

Romaji: sumu
Kana: すむ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Clean (for example, climate); transparent

Meaning in English: to clear (e.g. weather);to become transparent

Definition: It seems that the water is transparent.

Example Sentences - (澄む) sumu

See below some example sentences:

澄んだ空気が心を落ち着かせる。

Sumunda kūki ga kokoro o ochitsukaseru

The clean air calms the mind

• 澄んだ (Sumunda) - clear, clean
• 空気 (kūki) - I'm sorry, but there seems to be no text provided for translation. Please share the content you'd like translated from Portuguese to English.
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 心 (kokoro) - mind, heart
• を (o) - direct object particle
• 落ち着かせる (ochitsukaseru) - calm down