Translation and Meaning of: 躾 - shitsuke

The Japanese word 躾 [しつけ] is a fascinating term that goes beyond its superficial meaning. If you are looking to understand what it represents, how it is used in everyday Japanese, or even its origin, this article will explore all of that in a clear and straightforward manner. Here, we will delve into the meaning of 躾, its cultural context, and how it relates to important values in Japan. Whether you study Japanese or are just curious about the language, this content will help you better understand this expression.

The meaning and use of 躾 [しつけ]

躾 [しつけ] is often translated as "discipline," "education," or "upbringing," but its meaning goes beyond that. In Japan, this word is deeply connected to the process of teaching good manners, social rules, and appropriate behavior, especially for children. It does not refer only to orders or impositions, but to a set of values passed down throughout life.

An interesting detail is that 躾 is composed of two kanji: 身 (body) and 美 (beauty). Together, they suggest the idea of "beautifying the body" through good manners, reinforcing the notion that education is a form of personal improvement. This interpretation helps to understand why the term is so valued in Japanese culture, where social harmony and respect are fundamental.

The cultural importance of 躾 in Japan

In Japan, 躾 is not limited to just early childhood education. It is present in various aspects of life, from the way people greet each other to how they interact in public spaces. Many Japanese believe that good 躾 is essential for maintaining order and mutual respect, reflecting collective values deeply rooted in society.

A practical example is the emphasis on punctuality and care for shared spaces. Children learn from an early age to put away their belongings, clean the classroom, and respect schedules – all of this is part of 躾. This mentality also extends to the workplace, where discipline and etiquette are highly valued.

How to memorize and use 躾 correctly

If you are learning Japanese, an effective way to remember 躾 is to associate it with its broader meaning: not just "education", but a concept that encompasses self-control and personal refinement. A helpful tip is to think of the kanji 美 (beauty) as a representation of the harmonious behavior that the word seeks to convey.

Moreover, it's worth noting how 躾 appears in real contexts. In Japanese animes or dramas, for example, it's common to see characters mentioning the importance of しつけ in family or school situations. This type of natural exposure helps to solidify the term and understand its use in daily life.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• しつけ (shitsuke) - Discipline, character formation
• 教育 (kyouiku) - Formal education, teaching process in institutions
• 訓育 (kunyoku) - Education with an emphasis on ethics and morality, formation of virtues.
• 養育 (youiku) - Care and nutrition in the context of upbringing, physical and emotional development.

躾

Romaji: shitsuke
Kana: しつけ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: domestic discipline; training; education; creation

Meaning in English: home discipline;training;upbringing;breeding

Definition: Teach regularity and good manners to children, animals, etc. Discipline.

Example Sentences - (躾) shitsuke

See below some example sentences:

躾は子供の将来に大きな影響を与えます。

Shitsuke wa kodomo no shourai ni ookina eikyou wo ataemasu

Discipline has a big impact on children's future.

Discipline has a significant impact on a child's future.

• 躾 (しつけ) - discipline, education
• 子供 (こども) - child
• 将来 (しょうらい) - future
• 大きな (おおきな) - large
• 影響 (えいきょう) - influence
• 与えます (あたえます) - give, grant