Translation and Meaning of: 着手 - chakushu

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 着手[ちゃくしゅ]. It frequently appears in formal and professional contexts, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used in daily life in Japan, and why it is so important to understand its cultural context. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and precise explanations for those who want to master the language.

What does 着手 mean and when should it be used?

着手 [ちゃくしゅ] is a term that means "to initiate" or "to give start to something," especially in the sense of beginning a project, task, or work. Unlike words like 始める (hajimeru), which have a more generic use, 着手 carries a nuance of deliberate and planned action. It is often used in corporate, academic, or bureaucratic environments, where there is a need for formality.

An interesting detail is that 着手 is not limited to just the physical beginning of an activity. It can also indicate the moment when someone mentally commits to a task. For example, in a business meeting, a boss might say: "このプロジェクトに着手しましょう" (Let's start this project), conveying both the action and the strategic decision behind it.

The origin and the kanjis of 着手

The word 着手 is composed of two kanji: 着 (chaku), which means "to arrive" or "to wear," and 手 (shu), representing "hand." Together, they convey the idea of "putting hands on something," or in other words, starting to take action. This combination effectively reflects the practical sense of the word, which goes beyond the abstract concept of beginning.

It is worth noting that 着 also appears in other terms related to concrete actions, such as 到着 (tōchaku - arrival) and 着手金 (chakushu-kin - initial fee). This kanji has a strong connection to the idea of realization, which reinforces the use of 着手 in situations where the beginning is tangible and measurable.

How is 着手 perceived in Japan?

In Japan, 着手 is a word associated with responsibility and commitment. Its use in professional contexts reflects important cultural values, such as the importance of planning before taking action. When someone says they will 着手 on a project, there is an expectation that this person has already considered deadlines, resources, and possible obstacles.

Interestingly, this word rarely appears in casual conversations. Its more formal tone makes it more common in corporate emails, documents, or speeches. For everyday situations, Japanese people tend to prefer simpler verbs, such as 始める or やり始める (yarihajimeru). This distinction is useful for students who want to sound natural in different contexts.