Translation and Meaning of: 背負う - shou

The Japanese word 背負う (しょう) carries deep meanings and interesting uses in everyday life in Japan. If you are looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to apply it in sentences, this article will explore all of that clearly and directly. Additionally, we will dive into cultural aspects and practical tips for those studying Japanese, always based on reliable sources.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 背負う is defined as "to carry on one's back" or "to take on responsibility," but its use goes beyond the literal sense. Here, you will discover how this word appears in real contexts, its frequency in the language, and even curiosities that can help with memorization. Shall we begin?

Meaning and use of 背負う

背負う (しょう) is a verb that literally means "to carry something on one's back," such as a backpack or a child. However, its figurative meaning is equally important: it represents the idea of taking on responsibilities, burdens, or even the weight of others' expectations. This duality makes the word applicable in both physical and emotional situations.

In Japan, it's common to hear 背負う in professional or family contexts, where someone "carries" the future of a company or the honor of the family. For example, an athlete might 背負う the hopes of their country during a competition. This semantic flexibility makes the word versatile and often used in serious or motivational conversations.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 背 (せ) means "back" or "rear," while 負 (ふ) relates to "defeat" or "to carry." Together, they convey the idea of "bearing something on one's back," whether literally or metaphorically. This combination is not random: it reflects the Japanese cultural view that responsibilities are like weights we carry with us.

It is interesting to note that 背負う is composed of commonly used kanji, which makes its recognition easier even for beginner students. The reading しょう (shou) is less frequent than the standard form せおう (seou), but it appears in certain contexts and fixed expressions. Being able to identify both pronunciations is useful for those who want to master the language.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 背負う is to associate it with concrete images. Imagine someone carrying a heavy burden on their back – this scene well represents the literal and figurative meaning of the word. Another tip is to practice with sentences that alternate between physical and abstract senses, such as "背負う a backpack" and "背負う an important project."

In Japan, this word appears frequently in inspiring speeches or narratives about overcoming challenges. If you watch animes or dramas, pay attention when characters talk about taking on difficult missions or duties – often, 背負う will be present. This contact with real usage helps to internalize not only the vocabulary but also its cultural weight.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 背負う

• 背負います - polite form
• 背負っています - Polite manner with continuity
• 背負いました - Polite form in the past
• 背負っています - Form educated in the past with continuity
• 背負わない - negative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 負う (ou) - Load, bear (a responsibility or burden)
• 抱える (kakaeru) - Embrace, carry (something physically or figuratively, such as worries)
• 担う (ninau) - Take on, assume (particularly in responsibilities or roles)
• 負担する (futan suru) - Bear, support (a burden or cost)

背負う

Romaji: shou
Kana: しょう
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: be burdened; continue from behind or shoulder

Meaning in English: to be burdened with;to carry on back or shoulder

Definition: suportar something.

Example Sentences - (背負う) shou

See below some example sentences:

私たちは未来を背負う。

Watashitachi wa mirai wo seou

We carry the future.

• 私たちは - 「私たち」
• 未来を - "Future" in Japanese, followed by the particle "wo" which indicates the object of the sentence.
• 背負う - "To take on" in Japanese, in the sense of assuming responsibility.