Translation and Meaning of: 禁じる - kinjiru

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 禁じる (きんじる). It appears in various contexts, from social rules to warnings in public places. But what exactly does it mean? And how do the Japanese use it in their daily lives? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

Meaning and translation of 禁じる

The word 禁じる (きんじる) can be translated as "to prohibit," "to ban," or "to prevent." It is a verb that expresses the action of restricting or not allowing something, whether by law, rule, or personal decision. Its use is quite formal, frequently appearing in regulations, warning signs, and contexts where there is an authority establishing limits.

It is worth noting that 禁じる carries a stronger tone than simply "not allowing." When someone uses this word, there is usually a connotation that the prohibition is serious and must be respected. For example, in places like temples or public spaces, it is common to see notices like 「写真撮影を禁じる」("Photography is prohibited").

Origin and composition of kanji

The verb 禁じる is written with the kanji 禁, which itself carries the meaning of "prohibition" or "restriction." This character is composed of two elements: the radical 示 (which relates to the divine or ceremonies) and the component 林 (which means "forest"). Originally, the kanji was associated with religious taboos or restrictions imposed by authorities.

Interestingly, the kanji 禁 also appears in other words related to limits, such as 禁止 (きんし - "prohibition") and 禁煙 (きんえん - "no smoking"). This connection helps to understand why 禁じる carries such a strong weight in the Japanese language, as its root is linked to rules that must not be broken.

Cultural usage and frequency in everyday Japanese

In Japan, where social harmony and respect for rules are fundamental values, 禁じる appears in various scenarios. From signs in parks to rules in companies, the word is used to clarify what is not allowed. However, outside these formal contexts, the Japanese tend to avoid its use in daily life, preferring more indirect expressions to avoid confrontations.

An interesting fact is that, although 禁じrem is common in written texts, in colloquial speech, Japanese people often opt for alternatives like ダメ (dame) or いけない (ikenai), which sound less rigid. This difference between formal and informal language is essential for those who want to sound natural when speaking Japanese.

Tips for memorizing 禁じる

An effective way to memorize the meaning of 禁じる is to associate it with real situations where the prohibition is clear. For example, when seeing a sign that says 禁煙 (no smoking), you can remember that the kanji 禁 is present in both words. Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences like 「ここで泳ぐことを禁じる」("Swimming is prohibited here") to practice using it in context.

Additionally, it is worth noting that 禁じる (kinjiru) is a group 2 verb (ichidan), which means its conjugation follows a simpler pattern than group 1 verbs. For example, the negative form is 禁じない (kinjinai), and the past form is 禁じた (kinjita). Knowing this can help in using it correctly in different situations.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 禁じる

禁じる: affirmative form, present tense, polite form
禁じない: Negative form, present, polite form
禁じた: affirmative form, past, polite form
禁じなかった: Negative form, past, polite form
禁じよう: affirmative form, future, polite form
禁じません: negative, present, polite formal form

Synonyms and similar words

禁止する (kinshisuru) - Prohibit, prevent (act of prohibition)
禁じる (kinjiru) - Prohibit (act of restricting or blocking a behavior)
禁 (kin) - Prohibition, interdiction (broader term for something that is prohibited)