Translation and Meaning of: 研ぐ - togu

The Japanese word 研ぐ (とぐ) is a verb that carries interesting practical and cultural meanings. If you are learning Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding its use and context can enrich your knowledge. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and everyday uses of this word, as well as curiosities that can assist in memorization.

Found in everyday situations, 研ぐ has a direct application in activities such as cooking and crafting. Whether it's for sharpening a knife or polishing an object, its use reflects aspects of Japanese culture that value precision and care. Let's dive into the details of this word and discover how it fits into the language and lives of the Japanese people.

Meaning and usage of 研ぐ

The verb 研ぐ (とぐ) has two main meanings. The first is "to sharpen," as in the case of knives or blades. This usage is common in culinary contexts, where keeping utensils well-sharpened is essential. The second meaning is "to polish" or "to refine," applied to objects like swords or even personal skills.

In everyday phrases, you might hear something like 包丁を研ぐ (sharpen a knife) or 技を研ぐ (refine a technique). The word also appears in more abstract contexts, such as in the refinement of ideas or talents. This duality between the concrete and the abstract makes 研ぐ a versatile term in the Japanese language.

Origin and components of kanji

The kanji 研 is composed of the radical 石 (stone) and 开 (to open). This combination suggests the idea of "working a stone" or "sculpting," which relates to the meanings of sharpening and polishing. Its origin dates back to Ancient Chinese, where the character also carried notions of lapidation and refinement.

It is worth noting that 研ぐ is not an extremely common verb, but it appears frequently in specific contexts. Its use is more connected to traditional activities, such as cooking and sword making, areas where Japan has great historical and cultural expertise.

Trivia and memorization tips

An interesting way to memorize 研ぐ is to associate it with actions that require precision. Think about the rhythmic motion of sharpening a knife or the care taken when polishing a valuable object. This connection with meticulous gestures can help embed the meaning in your mind.

In Suki Nihongo, you will find practical examples and sentences that illustrate the use of 研ぐ in real-life situations. The word also appears in proverbs and expressions that reflect Japanese values, such as the importance of continuous improvement. These cultural details make learning richer and more contextualized.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 研ぐ

• 研ぎます - Polite form keigo
• 研ぐ - Neutral form 普通形
• 研いだ - past form
• 研ごう - Volitive form
• 研がせる - causative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 磨く (Migaku) - Polish or brush something, like teeth or surfaces.
• 研ぎ (Togi) - Sharpening usually refers to honing blades.
• 磨き (Migaki) - The act or result of polishing, also used to describe a fine finish.
• 研ぎ出す (Togi dasu) - Start sharpening, emphasizing the beginning of the sharpening process.
• 磨き上げる (Migaki ageru) - Polish to a high level, indicating a highly refined finish.

研ぐ

Romaji: togu
Kana: とぐ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: sharpen; grind; Summish; improve; to polish; Wash (rice)

Meaning in English: to sharpen;to grind;to scour;to hone;to polish;to wash (rice)

Definition: Improving the sharpness of pointed objects

Example Sentences - (研ぐ) togu

See below some example sentences:

爪を研ぐ者は利を得る。

Tsume wo togu mono wa ri wo eru

He who sharpens his claws gets benefits.

The person who sharpens nails becomes profitable.

• 爪 (tsume) - nail, claw
• を (wo) - Particle that indicates the object of the action
• 研ぐ (togu) - sharpen, grind
• 者 (mono) - person
• は (wa) - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 利 (ri) - benefit, profit
• を (wo) - Particle that indicates the object of the action
• 得る (eru) - obtain, gain

Translation - "Those who sharpen their claws gain profit."