Translation and Meaning of: 点く - tsuku

The Japanese word 点く[つく] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. If you've ever wondered about its meaning, origin, or how to use it in daily life, this article will explore all of that clearly and practically. Additionally, we will see how this word is perceived in Japanese culture and in which contexts it appears most frequently.

Whether for those studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding verbs like 点く[つく] helps to uncover a bit more of everyday life in Japan. Here, you will find accurate information, relevant examples, and even tips to memorize its correct usage.

Meaning and usage of 点く[つく]

The verb 点く[つく] is commonly translated as "to light" or "to turn on," especially when referring to lights, fire, or electronic devices. For example, it's common to hear phrases like 電気が点く (でんきがつく), which means "the light turns on." This everyday usage makes the word quite present in basic Japanese vocabulary.

However, 点く[つく] can also appear in more abstract contexts, such as when something "starts" or "comes into operation." This versatility makes it important to pay attention to the context of the sentence to grasp the exact meaning. In many cases, the word is associated with something that begins to operate or emit light suddenly.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 点, which composes the word 点く [つく], has Chinese origins and carries the meaning of "point" or "spot." This character is frequently used in words related to light or small sources of energy, which explains its association with the act of lighting. The reading つく (tsuku) is one of several possibilities for this kanji, demonstrating how the Japanese language blends Chinese influences with native pronunciations.

It is worth noting that 点く[つく] is an intransitive verb, meaning it describes an action that happens on its own, without the need for a direct agent. This differs from transitive verbs like 付ける (つける), which means "to turn on" in the sense of someone performing the action. This distinction is important to avoid confusion when forming correct sentences.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to reinforce the meaning of 点く[つく] is to associate it with everyday situations where things "light up" on their own. For example, think of a lamp that turns on when you enter a room or a computer screen that automatically turns on. This mental image helps to engrave the concept of something that activates without direct intervention.

Another tip is to pay attention to the kanji 点 in other words, such as 点灯 (てんとう), which means "lighting." This pattern of repetition of the character in terms related to light reinforces its connection to the verb 点く (つく). Over time, identifying these elements becomes more natural and accelerates the learning of Japanese vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 点く

• 点きます - Polite polite form
• 点くでしょう - Polite form in the future
• 点かない - negative form
• 点いた - past form
• 点きますか - Polite way of asking

Synonyms and similar words

• 灯る (Aburu) - Light up, illuminate
• 燃える (Moeru) - Burning, fiery
• 点火する (Tenka suru) - Light (formal)
• 点灯する (Tentō suru) - Turn on (lights)
• 点くる (Tukuru) - Light (in the recent past)
• 点くらむ (Tenkuram) - Fade (light)
• 点くらめる (Tenkurameru) - Stay obscure (light)

点く

Romaji: tsuku
Kana: つく
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: catch fire; (electricity) comes

Meaning in English: to catch fire;(electricity) comes on

Definition: It represents the light emitted by fire or light.