Translation and Meaning of: 猿 - saru

The Japanese word 猿[さる] is one of those that quickly catches the attention of those learning the language. Whether due to the intriguing kanji or the simple sound, it sparks curiosity about its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japan. In this article, we will explore all of this, from the basic translation to cultural details that make this word more interesting than it seems.

If you've ever wondered how the Japanese view monkeys or if 猿 appears in popular expressions, you're in the right place. Here at Suki Nihongo, we've gathered accurate information so that you can understand not only the vocabulary but also the context behind it. Let's start with the basics and then dive into curiosities that go beyond the dictionary.

Meaning and use of 猿

猿 means "monkey" in Japanese, but not just any monkey. The word usually refers to primates like the Japanese macaques (Nihonzaru), which are famous for appearing in mountainous regions and even in hot springs. Unlike in English, where "monkey" can be generic, 猿 has a more specific use in the Japanese language.

In everyday conversations, 猿 can appear in various contexts. For example, when visiting a zoo or talking about nature. It is also common in expressions like "猿知恵" (saruchie), which means "monkey's wit" and describes someone clever, but not necessarily wise. This kind of nuance shows how the word goes beyond the literal translation.

Origin and writing of the kanji 猿

The kanji 猿 is composed of two radicals: 犭(けものへん), which relates to animals, and 袁, which originally represented long clothing. The combination suggests the image of an agile animal, perhaps due to the association with quick movements. The etymology is not entirely clear, but sources like Kanjipedia confirm this interpretation.

It's worth noting that 猿 is not the only kanji for "monkey" in Japanese. The character 猴 also exists, but it is less common and appears more in literary contexts or scientific names. For those who are learning, focusing on 猿 is the most practical choice, as it dominates everyday usage and even media.

Monkeys in Japanese culture

Monkeys have a special place in Japanese folklore. A famous example is the proverb "猿も木から落ちる" (saru mo ki kara ochiru), which means "even monkeys fall from trees". The phrase is used to remind that even experts make mistakes, showing how the animal becomes a metaphor for human lessons.

Additionally, the snow monkeys of Jigokudani are tourist icons. They appear in documentaries and even in advertising campaigns, reinforcing the image of 猿 as part of Japan's natural identity. If you have seen pictures of them in onsens, you know how strong and internationally recognized this symbolism is.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 猴 (Saru) - Monkey; generic term for monkeys.
• 猩猩 (Shinshin) - Orangutan; a large primate known for its reddish fur.
• 猿猴 (Enkou) - Monkey, usually used to refer to monkeys in general.
• 猿猩 (Eshin) - Gorilla or orangutan; emphasis on similarity to humans.
• 猿類 (Etsurai) - Group of primates that includes monkeys and apes.

猿

Romaji: saru
Kana: さる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: monkey

Meaning in English: monkey

Definition: A mammal from the monkey family.

Example Sentences - (猿) saru

See below some example sentences:

猿も木から落ちる

Saru mo ki kara ochiru

Even monkeys fall from trees.

Even monkeys fall from trees

• 猿 (saru) - monkey
• も (mo) - also
• 木 (ki) - tree
• から (kara) - of
• 落ちる (ochiru) - fall