Translation and Meaning of: 点々 - tenten

The Japanese word 点々[てんてん] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. In this article, we will explore its meaning, everyday use, and even some curiosities that can help with memorization. If you've ever wondered how this word is applied in real contexts or what its origin is, keep reading to learn more in the best Japanese dictionary, Suki Nihongo.

Meaning and usage of 点々[てんてん]

点々[てんてん] is a word that describes something dotted or marked with small points. It can be used for both visual patterns, like fabrics or drawings, as well as to indicate a series of dispersed elements. For example, when talking about stars in the sky, one might say "空に点々と星が見える" (there are dotted stars in the sky).

Moreover, 点々 also appears in more abstract contexts, such as to describe feelings or events that arise sporadically. This versatility makes the word useful in various situations, from casual conversations to more poetic descriptions.

Origin and writing of kanjis

The origin of 点々 is directly linked to the kanji 点, which means "point" or "spot." The repetition of the character, common in Japanese to emphasize plurality or continuity, reinforces the idea of multiple points scattered. This type of construction is frequent in words that describe patterns or irregular distribution.

It is worth noting that 点 by itself is a commonly used kanji, appearing in terms such as 地点 (geographical point) or 重点 (emphasis). The duplication in 点々, therefore, expands its original meaning, creating a more vivid mental image of dispersion or repetition.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 点々 is to visually associate it with its meaning. Imagine a leaf full of small dots or a starry sky – this visual connection helps to solidify the term. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "紙に点々を描く" (draw dots on the paper), to internalize its usage.

Interestingly, 点々 also appears in unexpected contexts, such as in Japanese cuisine. Dishes like takoyaki, with their characteristic little balls, can be described using this word. This type of everyday application shows how the term is rooted in the culture and daily life of Japan.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 散々 (sanzan) - Extremely, very; it can imply great suffering or wear.
• ばらばら (barabara) - Scattered, disordered; parts are dispersed and disorganized.
• 斑々 (banban) - Stained, with spots; refers to something that has stains or color variations.
• 散在 (sanzai) - To be scattered; mirrors the idea of something that is distributed in several parts.
• 点在 (tenzai) - Be precisely located; it refers to specific points in a space.
• 点々と (tentento) - Spotted, stained; refers to a pattern of dots or stains.
• 点在する (tenzai suru) - To be located in several places; the act of being spread out in various locations.

点々

Romaji: tenten
Kana: てんてん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Here and there; little by little; sporadically; scattered in drops; point; point

Meaning in English: here and there;little by little;sporadically;scattered in drops;dot;spot

Definition: It seems that similar or equal things are spread far apart from each other.

Example Sentences - (点々) tenten

See below some example sentences:

点々と星が輝く夜空が美しいです。

Ten ten to hoshi ga kagayaku yozora ga utsukushii desu

The night with shining stars dotted is beautiful.

The night sky where the star shines is beautiful.

• 点々と - Dotted
• 星が - stars
• 輝く - shining
• 夜空が - night sky
• 美しいです - pretty