Translation and Meaning of: 裸 - hadaka

The Japanese word 裸[はだか] carries meanings and nuances that go beyond a simple translation. If you are looking to understand its usage in daily life, its origin, or how it is perceived in Japanese culture, this article will explore all of that in a clear and straightforward manner. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate information for students and enthusiasts of the Japanese language, so let’s dive into the details of this fascinating expression.

Meaning and usage of 裸 [はだか]

In its most basic form, 裸 means "naked" or "bare," referring to the absence of clothing. However, its use goes beyond the literal sense. It can appear in metaphorical contexts, such as in 裸の心 (hadaka no kokoro), which describes an exposed heart, unprotected. This versatility makes the word common in both informal conversations and artistic expressions.

It is worth noting that, unlike Portuguese, where "nu" can carry negative connotations in certain contexts, 裸 is more neutral in Japanese. It is often used in everyday situations, such as in 裸足 (hadashi), which means "barefoot," or in expressions like 裸一貫 (hadaka ikkan), indicating someone who starts from scratch, without resources.

Origin and writing of the kanji 裸

The kanji 裸 is composed of the radical 衤(showing a relation to clothing) and the component 果 (which suggests completeness or result). This combination reflects the idea of something completely exposed, without covering. Despite its structure, it's important to note that 裸 is not one of the oldest kanji in Japanese, having been incorporated into the language with a well-defined meaning.

Interestingly, although the kanji itself is not one of the most complex, its kun'yomi reading (はだか) is used more commonly in daily life than the on'yomi (ラ). This means that students need to pay special attention to its pronunciation, as it does not follow the common patterns of other kanjis with similar components.

Cultural and Social Context

In Japan, nudity is not necessarily taboo as it is in many Western cultures. Public baths (sentō) and hot springs (onsen) are spaces where 裸 is socially accepted, as long as one follows the local etiquette rules. This acceptance is reflected in the use of the word, which does not carry the same stigma that "nude" may have in other languages.

On the other hand, in professional or formal contexts, references to nudity are avoided. Expressions like 裸の付き合い (hadaka no tsukiai), which describe a relationship without reservations, are more common in close circles. This duality shows how the word adapts to different spheres of Japanese life, always maintaining its semantic core of exposure and truth.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 裸体 (Hadaka) - Bare body
• 無防備 (Muboubi) - Defenseless; unprotected
• 無遮蔽 (Mushahei) - Uncovered; exposed
• 無遮断 (Musadan) - Uninterrupted; continuous

裸

Romaji: hadaka
Kana: はだか
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: naked; nude; laid-back

Meaning in English: naked;nude;bare

Definition: I am not wearing any clothes.

Example Sentences - (裸) hadaka

See below some example sentences:

裸のままで出かけるのは恥ずかしいです。

Hadaka no mama de dekakeru no wa hazukashii desu

It is shameful to go naked.

It is embarrassing to go naked.

• 裸のままで出かける - going out without clothes
• のは - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 恥ずかしい - ashamed, embarrassed
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present

裸足で走るのは危険です。

Hadashi de hashiru no wa kiken desu

Running barefoot is dangerous.

It is dangerous to run barefoot.

• 裸足で走る - run barefoot
• のは - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 危険 - dangerous
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present