Translation and Meaning of: 調べ - shirabe

The Japanese word 調べ [しらべ] is a versatile term that appears in various contexts, from everyday conversations to more formal situations. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about the meaning and usage of this expression, this article will explore its details in a clear and practical way. Here, we will understand its translation, origin, common applications, and even some tips to memorize it easily.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 調べ, we will analyze how it is perceived in Japanese culture, its frequency in the language, and in what situations it appears. Whether for study or simple interest in the language, this guide will help you master this vocabulary naturally and efficiently.

Meaning and translation of 調べ

調べ can be translated as "investigation," "research," or "examination," depending on the context. In more informal situations, it can also mean "to check" or "to verify." For example, if someone says "事件の調べ" [じけんのしらべ], they are referring to the "investigation of a case." In a musical context, the word can indicate "tuning," as in "楽器の調べ" [がっきのしらべ], which means "tuning of the instrument."

This variety of meanings makes 調べ a useful word, but it requires attention when used. Knowing how to differentiate when it refers to an action of verification or a more formal process of investigation is essential to avoid misunderstandings. The good news is that, in most cases, the context of the sentence makes it clear which meaning is being applied.

Origin and structure of the kanji 調

The kanji 調 consists of two main elements: the radical 言 (which relates to speech or language) and 周 (which can indicate circumference or surroundings). This combination suggests the idea of "organizing words" or "meticulously adjusting something," which explains its current meanings. Historically, this character was used in bureaucratic and musical contexts, reinforcing the notion of ordering and verification.

It is worth noting that 調べ is the nominal form of the verb 調べる [しらべる], which means "to investigate" or "to examine." This relationship between noun and verb is common in Japanese and helps to expand the use of the word in different grammatical constructions. If you are already familiar with the verb, it becomes easier to associate it with the noun and vice versa.

Everyday and Cultural Use of 調べ

In their daily lives, Japanese people use 調べ in situations ranging from simple tasks to more complex processes. A student might say "宿題を調べる" [しゅくだいをしらべる] to indicate that they will "research the homework," while a reporter might use "真相を調べる" [しんそうをしらべる] to talk about "investigating the truth." This flexibility makes the word quite practical in conversations.

Culturally, 調べ also appears in expressions that reflect Japanese values, such as the importance of precision and detailed analysis. In professional environments, for example, it is common to hear phrases like "詳細を調べてください" [しょうさいをしらべてください], which means "please check the details." This usage reinforces attention to even the smallest aspects, something highly valued in Japanese society.

Tips for memorizing 調べ

An effective way to fix 調べ is to associate it with concrete situations. If you enjoy music, remember that it can mean "tuning." If you're interested in news, link it to "investigation." Creating these mental connections helps you retrieve the meaning more quickly when needed. Another strategy is to practice with short sentences, like "調べが必要です" [しらべがひつようです], which means "it's necessary to check."

Moreover, observing the kanji 調 can be helpful. The radical 言 (speech) appears in many words related to communication, while 周 (surrounding) reminds of the idea of examining something thoroughly. This visual decomposition facilitates the memorization of both the writing and the meaning of the word. With constant practice, 調べ will become part of your active vocabulary in Japanese.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 調査 (Chousa) - Investigation, research
• 探究 (Tankyuu) - Exploration, in-depth search
• 検討 (Kento) - Analysis, consideration
• 研究 (Kenkyuu) - Study, scientific research
• 調査する (Chousa suru) - Conduct an investigation
• 調べる (Shiraberu) - investigate, examine
• 調べ書き (Shirabe kaki) - Research notes
• 調べ物 (Shirabe mono) - Research object
• 調べ方 (Shirabe kata) - Research method
• 調べ結果 (Shirabe kekka) - Search results
• 調べ上げる (Shirabe ageru) - Complete the survey
• 調べ出す (Shirabe dasu) - Start investigating
• 調べ取る (Shirabe toru) - Collecting information
• 調べ付ける (Shirabe tsukeru) - Add information
• 調べ合わせる (Shirabe awaseru) - Compare research
• 調べ合い (Shirabe ai) - Research interaction among people

調べ

Romaji: shirabe
Kana: しらべ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: preparation; investigation; inspection

Meaning in English: preparation;investigation;inspection

Definition: Collect and clarify information through research and materials.

Example Sentences - (調べ) shirabe

See below some example sentences:

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.

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"