Translation and Meaning of: 盗む - nusumu

The Japanese word 盗む (ぬすむ, nusumu) carries a strong and specific meaning: "to steal" or "to commit theft." If you are learning Japanese or have curiosity about the language, understanding how this word is used in everyday life, its origin, and its cultural contexts can be essential. In this article, we will explore the meaning of 盗む, its writing in kanji, practical examples, and even how it appears in Japanese culture.

In addition to being a common verb in Japanese vocabulary, 盗む has interesting nuances that reflect social values and even historical aspects. Whether to avoid confusion when speaking or to better memorize the term, knowing these details makes all the difference. Let's start with the basics: what exactly does this word represent and how is it written?

Meaning and writing of 盗む

盗む is a Japanese verb that means "to steal," "to take unlawfully," or "to appropriate something illegally." Its kanji, 盗, is composed of two visual elements: 皿 (plate) and 欠 (to lack, to be deficient). This combination suggests the idea of "something that is missing" or "something that has been taken," reinforcing the sense of unlawful appropriation. Although the exact etymology may vary according to sources, this interpretation is widely accepted.

It is important to note that 盗む (nusumu) is not limited to just physical objects. In broader contexts, it can be used metaphorically, as in 心を盗む (kokoro o nusumu - to steal someone's heart). However, its most common use is still related to criminal or unethical actions, which makes it a word laden with negativity in the Japanese language.

Everyday use and cultural context

In Japan, where honesty and respect for social rules are highly valued, 盗む is a word that evokes strong disapproval. Its use in everyday conversations typically appears in contexts of caution or discussions about safety, such as 自転車を盗まれた (my bike was stolen). It is also common in news and public notices about theft.

Interestingly, the word appears in fixed expressions and proverbs, such as 盗人猛々しい (ぬすびとたけだけしい, "a bold thief"), used to describe someone who acts shamelessly after committing a wrong action. This type of use reinforces how the term is rooted in Japanese culture not only as a verb but as a moral concept.

Tips to memorize 盗む

An effective way to memorize 盗む is to associate its kanji with a mental image. As mentioned, the radical 皿 (plate) combined with 欠 (to lack) can be visualized as "someone who took a plate, leaving an empty space." This simple association helps to remember both the writing and the meaning of the word.

Another tip is to practice with short, contextual sentences, like 彼はお金を盗んだ (he stole money). Repeating the verb in real situations – even if just mentally – strengthens memorization. Furthermore, paying attention to news or dialogues in Japanese dramas where the term appears can help internalize its correct usage.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 盗み取る (nusumitoru) - Stealing something, usually in a sneaky way.
• 強奪する (gōdatsu suru) - Robbery with force or violence, assault.
• 窃盗する (settō suru) - Theft or robbery in general, the act of stealing.
• 盗み出す (nusumidasu) - Stealing something and taking it outside, to theft.
• 盗み見る (nusumimiru) - To spy or observe something stealthily, to see something one shouldn't.

盗む

Romaji: nusumu
Kana: ぬすむ
Type: Noun and verb
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: steal

Meaning in English: to steal

Definition: To take someone else's property without permission.

Example Sentences - (盗む) nusumu

See below some example sentences:

盗むは犯罪です。

Nusumu wa hanzai desu

Stealing is a crime.

• 盗む (nusumu) - verb meaning "to steal"
• は (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 犯罪 (hanzai) - noun meaning "crime"
• です (desu) - linking verb that indicates the formality of the sentence

盗みはいけません。

Nusumi wa ikemasen

Stealing is not allowed.

Do not steal.

• 盗み - "roubo" in Japanese
• は - Japanese topic particle
• いけません - "not acceptable" in Japanese, used to express a prohibition or rule
• . - full stop in Japanese