Translation and Meaning of: 繋がり - tsunagari

The Japanese word 繋がり (tsunagari) is a term that goes far beyond its literal translation. It represents connections, bonds, and relationships, whether between people, ideas, or even objects. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese, along with curiosities that help understand its cultural importance. If you are learning Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding 繋がり can enrich your perspective on the language and Japanese society.

Meaning and usage of 繋がり

繋がり is often translated as "connection" or "bond," but its meaning encompasses more than just physical relations. It can refer to emotional ties, social networks, or even continuity between events. For example, in a conversation, someone might say "私たちの繋がりは強い" (watashitachi no tsunagari wa tsuyoi), which means "our connection is strong."

In a professional context, the word is also used to talk about networking or important contacts. Companies value 繋がり as an essential part of business, demonstrating how the term is rooted in various aspects of life in Japan.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 繋 is composed of elements that suggest the idea of "tying" or "linking". Its radical, 糸 (ito), means "thread", reinforcing the notion of something that unites. The rest of the character brings the idea of continuity, which perfectly aligns with the concept of 繋がり as something that keeps things interconnected.

It is worth noting that the reading つながり (tsunagari) is the most common, but the same kanji can be read as "kei" in compound words, such as 連繋 (renkei), which means "connection" or "association." This shows how a single ideogram can have different applications depending on the context.

Cultural and Social Importance

In Japan, 繋がり is a concept deeply connected to the notion of community and group harmony. Family ties, friendships, and even professional relationships are seen as part of a larger network, where each connection has its value. This explains why the word appears so often in discussions about society as well as in everyday conversations.

In animes and dramas, for example, it is common to see characters emphasizing the importance of maintaining or recovering 繋がり, especially in stories that address themes such as friendship and teamwork. This media representation reinforces how the term is present in the Japanese collective imagination.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 縁 (En) - Relationship, connection that unites people or things, often associated with destiny.
• 絆 (Kizuna) - Deep emotional bonds between people that highlight the affective connection.
• コネクション (Konekushon) - Connection, often used in a more social or professional context.
• コミュニケーション (Komyunikēshon) - Communication, the act of transmitting information between individuals.
• 交流 (Kōryū) - Interaction, exchange between people, cultures, or ideas.
• つながり (Tsunagari) - Connection refers to the bonds or ties that unite people, places, or events.

繋がり

Romaji: tsunagari
Kana: つながり
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: connection; link; relationship

Meaning in English: connection;link;relationship

Definition: To connect and unite something.

Example Sentences - (繋がり) tsunagari

See below some example sentences:

繋がりを大切にしましょう。

Tsunagari wo taisetsu ni shimashou

Let's value our connections.

Let's value the connection.

• 繋がり (tsunagari) - connection, relationship
• を (wo) - object particle
• 大切 (taisetsu) - important, valuable
• に (ni) - target particle
• しましょう (shimashou) - Kindly form of the verb "fazer", indicating a suggestion or invitation