Translation and Meaning of: 玉 - gyoku

The Japanese word 玉[ぎょく] carries profound meanings and various applications in the language. If you are looking to understand its usage, translation, or origin, this article will explore all of that clearly and directly. Here at Suki Nihongo, we prioritize accurate and helpful information for students and curious minds about the Japanese language.

Gyoku (玉) is not just a common term, but also a kanji that appears in relevant cultural expressions and contexts. Let's uncover its basic meaning and curiosities about how it is used in everyday life in Japan. Whether to expand your vocabulary or satisfy your linguistic curiosity, this guide has what you need.

Meaning and usage of 玉[ぎょく]

In its most basic form, 玉[ぎょく] means "jewel" or "precious stone", especially those of high value like emeralds and jades. However, its use goes beyond the literal sense. The term can symbolize something valuable, whether a physical object or even a cherished person.

In Japanese daily life, 玉[ぎょく] appears in compound words like 宝玉[ほうぎょく] (precious jewel) or 玉ねぎ[たまねぎ] (onion), showcasing its versatility. Interestingly, in the second example, the kanji 玉 takes on a more metaphorical meaning, referring to the rounded shape of the vegetable.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 玉 has an interesting history. Its ancient form represented strands of jade beads tied together, a symbol of status in ancient China. Over time, this representation evolved into the current character, which still retains the association with valuable objects.

In modern writing, 玉 consists of the radical 王 (king) and an additional stroke that suggests a hanging jewel. This structure helps to memorize its main meaning. Japanese students often associate this kanji with round and precious things, a useful tip for retention.

玉[ぎょく] in Japanese culture

In Japanese tradition, precious stones like jade (represented by 玉) have always held cultural significance. They appear in historical artifacts, temple ornaments, and even as symbols of protection. This cultural value is reflected in the linguistic use of the word to this day.

In animes and mangas, 玉[ぎょく] often describes magical objects or powerful artifacts, reinforcing its connotation of value and rarity. This representation in popular media helps to keep the association of the term with special and unique things alive in the minds of modern speakers.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 球 (kyuu) - Sphere, ball
• 球体 (kyuutai) - Spherical body
• 玉子 (tamago) - Egg (usually refers to chicken eggs)
• 玉石 (gyoku-seki) - Precious stones or jade stones
• 玉玉 (gyoku gyoku) - It refers to jewels or precious spheres, often repeated for emphasis.
• 玉製品 (gyoku seihin) - Products made of jade or precious stones
• 玉類 (gyoku rui) - Category of gems or jewelry
• 玉物 (gyoku mono) - Objects made of jade or precious materials
• 玉器 (gyoku ki) - Utensils or objects made of jade
• 玉髄 (gyoku zui) - Jadeite, a variety of jade
• 玉鉱 (gyoku kou) - Jade mines or gemstones
• 玉鋼 (gyoku kou) - Jade steel, an alloy.
• 玉鋼材 (gyoku kouzai) - Materials made of jade steel
• 玉鋼板 (gyoku kouban) - Jade steel plates
• 玉鋼製品 (gyoku kouseihin) - Products made of jade steel

玉

Romaji: gyoku
Kana: ぎょく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: rei (将棋)

Meaning in English: king (shogi)

Definition: A small, round object.

Example Sentences - (玉) gyoku

See below some example sentences:

玉は美しい宝石です。

Gyoku wa utsukushii houseki desu

The ball is a beautiful gem.

• 玉 - means "precious stone" or "sphere" in Japanese
• は - Japanese topic particle
• 美しい - The adjective that means "pretty" or "beautiful" in Japanese is "美しい" (utsukushii).
• 宝石 - means "precious stone" or "jewel" in Japanese
• です - verb "to be" in Japanese, indicating a statement or declaration