Translation and Meaning of: 諮る - hakaru

The Japanese word 諮る [はかる] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will see practical tips for memorizing it and understanding its cultural context. If you are looking for reliable information about this expression, you have come to the right place.

Meaning and usage of 諮る [はかる]

諮る [はかる] is a verb that means "to consult," "to deliberate," or "to seek advice." It is often used in formal or professional situations, such as when someone seeks the opinion of a superior or expert. For example, an employee might 諮る their boss before making an important decision.

Unlike other similar verbs, such as 聞く (to ask), 諮る implies a higher level of formality and respect. It is common in corporate and governmental settings, where hierarchies are well defined. Its use in casual conversations is rare, which can confuse beginners in the language.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 諮 is composed of the radical 言 (word, speech) and 咨 (to consult). This combination reinforces the meaning of "to consult verbally." Its origin dates back to classical Chinese, where the character also had a similar meaning, illustrating how some words migrated between languages.

It is worth noting that 諮る is not an extremely common verb in everyday life, but it frequently appears in official documents and work meetings. Japanese students may encounter it in business materials or news about politics, where decisions are made after consultations.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 諮る is to associate it with situations that require approval or discussion. Think of scenarios like "I need to consult my teacher" or "I will deliberate with the team." This mental connection helps to fix the verb in the active vocabulary.

Another tip is to practice with real sentences, such as 「上司に諮ってから返事します」 ("I will respond after consulting my superior"). Repeating authentic examples strengthens the understanding of the appropriate context. Avoid using it in informal conversations, as it may sound strange or pretentious.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 相談する (sōdan suru) - Consult, discuss a subject
• 参考にする (sankō ni suru) - Use as a reference, base yourself on something.
• 相談を持つ (sōdan o motsu) - To have a meeting, to have something to discuss
• 考える (kangaeru) - think, consider
• 問い合わせる (toiawaseru) - Make an inquiry, ask about something.

諮る

Romaji: hakaru
Kana: はかる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Consult; to check

Meaning in English: to consult with;to confer

Definition: Seeking opinions and advice from other people.

Example Sentences - (諮る) hakaru

See below some example sentences:

私は友達に人生の重要な決定を諮る必要がある。

Watashi wa tomodachi ni jinsei no juuyou na ketsudan wo hakaru hitsuyou ga aru

I need to consult my friends about the important decisions of life.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case "I"
• 友達 (tomodachi) - noun meaning "friend"
• に (ni) - particle that indicates the target of the action, in this case "for the friend"
• 人生 (jinsei) - substantive that means "life"
• の (no) - particle that indicates possession, in this case "of life"
• 重要な (juuyouna) - Adjective meaning "important"
• 決定 (kettei) - noun that means "decision"
• を (wo) - particle that indicates the direct object of the action, in this case "the decision"
• 諮る (shiru) - verb that means "to consult"
• 必要がある (hitsuyou ga aru) - expression that means "to be necessary"