Translation and Meaning of: 調べる - shiraberu

If you are studying Japanese, you have probably come across the verb 調べる (しらべる). This word is essential for those who want to communicate in their daily life or even to research information. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical uses, as well as curiosities that can help with memorization. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides valuable details for those who want to master this term.

Meaning and usage of 調べる

調べる is a Japanese verb that means "to investigate," "to research," or "to verify." It is frequently used in both formal and informal contexts, ranging from everyday situations to professional environments. For example, if you need to check a train schedule or research a topic for a paper, 調べる is the right word.

Additionally, this verb can appear in different situations, such as in conversations about studies, business, or even in medical consultations. Its versatility makes it one of the most useful words for Japanese learners. It is worth noting that, although it has a meaning close to "to search," 調べる carries a more active nuance of analysis or verification.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 調 (ちょう) means "harmony," "tone," or "to investigate," while べる is the verbal form. The combination of these elements suggests an action of organizing or examining something carefully. This relationship between the ideograms helps to understand why the verb is so commonly used in contexts that require precision.

Interestingly, the radical of 調 is 言 (ことば), which is related to speech and communication. This reinforces the idea that investigating or verifying often involves dialogue and the exchange of information. This etymological connection can be a good tip for remembering the meaning of the word.

Tips for using 調べる in everyday life

An effective way to remember 調べる is to use it in simple everyday sentences. For example, if you are learning a new word, you can say: "この言葉を調べます" (I will research this word). Another tip is to associate it with real situations, such as when you need to confirm information on the internet or in a book.

Additionally, it is worth paying attention to how the Japanese use this verb in series, movies, or news broadcasts. Observing its use in different registers — from casual conversations to formal language — helps to understand its nuances and practical applications. Over time, 調べる will become a natural part of your active vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 調査する (Chōsa suru) - Investigate or conduct detailed research.
• 探る (Saguru) - Explore or investigate, usually in a careful and subtle manner.
• 捜す (Sasagu) - Search or look for often refers to the search for something specific.
• 調べ出す (Shirabe dasu) - Start investigating or looking for information.
• 確かめる (Tashikameru) - Confirm or verify information.
• 調べ上げる (Shirabeageru) - Investigate until the end, obtain all necessary information.
• 調べる (Shiraberu) - Investigate or check information in general.

調べる

Romaji: shiraberu
Kana: しらべる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: to investigate; to verify

Meaning in English: to investigate;to check up

Definition: To research and investigate certain information.

Example Sentences - (調べる) shiraberu

See below some example sentences:

この事件の経緯を調べる必要があります。

Kono jiken no keii wo shiraberu hitsuyou ga arimasu

It is necessary to investigate the history of this incident.

It is necessary to examine the background of this case.

• この - this
• 事件 - incident
• の - of
• 経緯 - circumstances
• を - object of the action
• 調べる - investigate
• 必要 - necessary
• が - subject particle
• あります - exists

徹底的に調べる

Tetteiteki ni shiraberu

thoroughly investigate

• 徹底的 - complete, meticulous
• に - Particle indicating the target of the action
• 調べる - Investigate, examine

私はこの問題を調べる必要があります。

Watashi wa kono mondai o shiraberu hitsuyō ga arimasu

I need to investigate this problem.

I need to figure this problem out.

• 私 (watashi) - Japanese personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - Japanese particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• この (kono) - Japanese demonstrative adjective meaning "this"
• 問題 (mondai) - Japanese noun that means "problem"
• を (wo) - Japanese particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence
• 調べる (shiraberu) - Japanese verb that means "to investigate" or "to research."
• 必要 (hitsuyou) - Japanese noun that means "necessity" or "essential"
• が (ga) - Japanese particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• あります (arimasu) - Japanese verb that means "to exist" or "there is"

用語の意味を調べてください。

Yōgo no imi o shirabete kudasai

Please, look up the meaning of the term.

Check the meaning of the term.

• 用語 - term
• の - Possession particle
• 意味 - Meaning
• を - direct object particle
• 調べて - Search
• ください - Please, make.