Translation and Meaning of: 箱 - hako

Etymology and Origin

The word "箱" (hako) dates back to ancient origins in Japan, being composed of the kanji 「箱」. This kanji incorporates two important elements: 「竹」(take) which means "bamboo" and 「相」(ai) which means "mutual" or "encounter." Historically, bamboo was a common material in the making of boxes due to its abundance and durability. Thus, the composition of the kanji suggests the idea of an object, likely a box, made of bamboo for storing or transporting items, reflecting a successful meeting of resources and needs.

Definition and Usage

The term "箱" (hako) refers to a "box" or "container" in Japanese. Its use is quite broad, as it can refer to boxes of different sizes and materials. Boxes can be made of cardboard, wood, metal, or plastic, among other materials, and are used for various purposes, such as storing items, transporting goods, and even for decorative purposes.

Variations and Context

• 「箱詰め」(hakodzume)It refers to putting items in a box, usually for transportation or storage.
• 「宝箱」(takarabako)Literally "treasure box", used to describe boxes that hold valuable or interesting objects.
• 「駅弁箱」(ekibenbako)Boxes used for selling bentos (packed lunches) at train stations.

These variations show how the concept of "hako" is versatile, adapting to different contexts and everyday needs in Japan. This word is an example of the simple yet meaningful way Japanese culture incorporates its environment and history into the linguistic and practical aspects of daily life.

Culture and Influence

In Japanese culture, boxes hold importance beyond their practical use. During festivals, such as Obon, small boxes are used to store offerings and amulets. This highlights the ritualistic and respectful aspect of society towards objects and storage. A famous example is the 「歌詠み箱」 (utayomibako), a box used to store written poems, resonating with Japan's long literary tradition. The love for meticulous packaging and presentation is also seen in gift boxes and the act of "unwrap," which is considered a form of art.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 容器 (Yōki) - Receptacle, general container; it can refer to any type of container for storage.
• ボックス (Bokkusu) - Box, usually made of cardboard or wood; typically used for packing.
• ケース (Kēsu) - Case, box or pouch; commonly used for transporting or protecting objects.
• トランク (Toranku) - Trunk, chest or large box; used to store clothes and personal items, usually while traveling.
• 箱子 (Hakozi) - Box, larger or more specific terms that can refer to boxes of any kind; synonym of 箱 (Hako).

箱

Romaji: hako
Kana: はこ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: caixa

Meaning in English: box

Definition: A container to store things.

Example Sentences - (箱) hako

See below some example sentences:

この箱の中身は何ですか？

Kono hako no nakami wa nan desu ka?

What is the content of this box?

What is the content of this box?

• この - demonstrative that indicates proximity, "this"
• 箱 - noun that means "box"
• の - particle that indicates possession, "da"
• 中身 - noun that means "content"
• は - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, "about"
• 何 - interrogative pronoun that means "what"
• ですか - expression that indicates a polite question, "what is it?"

その箱は四角いです。

sono hako wa shikakui desu

This box is square.

The box is square.

• その - demonstrative pronoun meaning "that"
• 箱 - noun that means "box"
• は - topic particle indicating that the subject of the sentence is "that box"
• 四角い - adjective meaning "square"
• です - verb to be in the polite form