Translation and Meaning of: 箱 - hako

The Japanese word 箱[はこ] is a common term in everyday life in Japan, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical uses, as well as cultural curiosities that help understand how it is perceived by native speakers. If you've ever wondered how to memorize this kanji or in what contexts it appears, keep reading to find out.

Besides being a simple word, 箱[はこ] has various applications, from descriptions of objects to idiomatic expressions. Here, you will also find tips based on reliable sources to reinforce its meaning and use. The Suki Nihongo dictionary, a reference for Japanese learners, provides clear examples of how this word fits into everyday sentences.

Meaning and origin of 箱 [はこ]

The term 箱[はこ] literally means "box," referring to a container used to store or transport items. The kanji 箱 is composed of the bamboo radical (竹) at the top, which historically was used to create handmade boxes in Japan, combined with the element 相, which reinforces the idea of structure. This composition reflects the practical utility of the object in Japanese culture.

The origin of the word dates back to the Heian period (794–1185), when the term was written as "はこ" in ancient hiragana. With the introduction of Chinese kanji, the character 箱 was adopted to represent the concept, remaining so to this day. Interestingly, in regional dialects such as that of Okinawa, the pronunciation may vary to "hakō," but the meaning remains the same.

Everyday use and common expressions

In Japan, 箱[はこ] appears in everyday situations, such as in supermarkets (箱に入れてください – "please put it in the box") or in transportation (段ボール箱 – "cardboard box"). A popular expression is 箱入り娘[はこいりむすめ], which describes a "daughter raised under excessive protection," comparing her to an object kept in a box. This type of usage shows how the word goes beyond its literal meaning.

Another example is 箱膳[はこぜん], a type of traditional Japanese tray with compartments, used to serve meals. These combinations demonstrate how 箱 integrates with other terms to create specific meanings, something common in the Japanese language. In animes and dramas, the word often appears in scenes of change or organization, reinforcing its practical role in culture.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to memorize the kanji 箱 is to associate its bamboo radical (竹) with the idea of traditional boxes made from that material. Another tip is to remember that the reading "はこ" sounds like "hako," which can be linked to the sound of objects being placed in a box. This mnemonic technique is supported by teaching methods such as those in the book "Remembering the Kanji."

A little-known fact is that in kabuki theater, the term 黒子[くろこ] (a person dressed in black who assists on stage) originally referred to someone who carried equipment boxes. Although it does not use the kanji 箱, the historical relationship with the concept of "box" shows how the word influenced other areas. These details enrich learning and help reinforce vocabulary.

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: Cashier

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