Translation and Meaning of: 煙草 - tabako

The Japanese word 煙草[たばこ] is often associated with tobacco, but its history and use go beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and cultural contexts in which this word appears. If you are learning Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding how たばこ is used in everyday life can be quite helpful.

In addition to uncovering the etymology of the word, we will address how it is perceived in Japan, its frequency in everyday conversations, and even tips for memorizing it more easily. Whether for studies or cultural interest, this guide will help clarify questions about 煙草[たばこ] in a direct and precise manner.

Meaning and origin of 煙草[たばこ]

The word 煙草[たばこ] specifically refers to tobacco, whether in the form of leaves, cigarettes, or cigars. Its kanji, 煙 (kemuri, "smoke") and 草 (kusa, "herb"), literally describe a "herb that produces smoke." This composition is quite clear and helps to understand why the term was chosen to represent the product.

According to historical records, たばこ entered the Japanese vocabulary during the Edo period (1603-1868), when tobacco was introduced to the country by Portuguese merchants. The pronunciation "tabako" has roots in the Spanish term "tabaco," which in turn comes from the Taino language spoken by indigenous peoples of the Caribbean. This linguistic journey shows how the word carries global influences.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, the consumption of たばこ was much more common than it is today. For decades, smokers could be seen everywhere, from bars to offices. However, with public health campaigns and stricter laws, the number of smokers has significantly decreased in recent decades.

Despite this, the word still appears frequently, especially in establishments that sell cigarettes or in discussions about regulations. Places like konbini (convenience stores) often have sections dedicated to たばこ, and vending machines were common until recently. The decline in use has not erased the term's presence in everyday life.

Tips for memorizing 煙草[たばこ]

An effective way to memorize a word is to associate its kanji with its meaning. As already mentioned, 煙 (smoke) + 草 (grass) create a clear image of what tobacco is. This visual decomposition helps to remember not only the writing but also the meaning behind it.

Another tip is to practice with real examples, such as signs in stores or advertisements. Simple sentences like "たばこを吸います" (I smoke tobacco) can be useful for consolidating your learning. Additionally, observing the context in which the word appears — whether in news about taxes or in notices for smoking areas — reinforces your memorization in a natural way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• タバコ (Tabako) - Product made from tobacco leaves.
• 紙巻き (Kamimaki) - Cigarette rolled in paper.
• 煙管 (Ebine) - Pipe, a type of pipe used for smoking tobacco.
• 煙草製品 (Tabako seihin) - Tobacco products.
• 煙草葉 (Tabako ba) - Tobacco leaves.
• 煙草類 (Tabako rui) - Tobacco category or tobacco-related products.
• 煙草燃料 (Tabako nenryou) - Tobacco-based fuel.
• 煙草草 (Tabako kusa) - Tobacco plant.
• 煙草葉巻き (Tabako hapaki) - Cigar rolled with tobacco leaf.
• 煙草煙 (Tabako kemuri) - Smoke released when burning tobacco.
• 煙草葉製品 (Tabako ha seihin) - Products made from tobacco leaves.
• 煙草葉類 (Tabako ha rui) - Varieties or types of tobacco leaves.
• 煙草製造物 (Tabako seizoubutsu) - Products made from tobacco.
• 煙草製品類 (Tabako seihin rui) - Tobacco product categories.
• 煙草製品種類 (Tabako seihin shurui) - Types of tobacco products.
• 煙草種類 (Tabako shurui) - Tobacco varieties.
• 煙草製品品目 (Tabako seihin hinmoku) - Tobacco product items.
• 煙草製品種別 (Tabako seihin shubetsu) - Classification of tobacco products.
• 煙草製品種類別 (Tabako seihin shurui-betsu) - Separation of tobacco products by type.
• 煙草製品の一種 (Tabako seihin no isshu) - A type of tobacco product.

煙草

Romaji: tabako
Kana: たばこ
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n1, jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: (PT:) (n) (United Kingdom) Tobacco (PT: Tobacco); cigarettes

Meaning in English: (pt:) (n) (uk) tobacco (pt: tabaco);cigarettes

Definition: Cigarettes. Product made from dried leaves that is lit and smoked or chewed.

Example Sentences - (煙草) tabako

See below some example sentences:

煙草を吸うのは健康に悪いです。

Tabako wo suu no wa kenkou ni warui desu

Smoking cigarettes is harmful to health.

Smoking tobacco is bad for your health.

• 煙草 (tabaco) - noun
• を (partícula de objeto) - particle
• 吸う (fumar) - verb
• のは (partícula de tópico) - particle
• 健康 (saúde) - noun
• に (partícula de destino) - particle
• 悪い (ruim) - adjective
• です (verbo ser/estar) - verb