Translation and Meaning of: 近付く - chikaduku

If you are learning Japanese, you may have come across the word 近付く (ちかづく, chikazuku). It appears in everyday dialogues, songs, and even in animes, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what this word really represents, how to use it correctly, and why it is so prevalent in Japanese communication. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to go beyond the dictionary, providing context and nuances that aid in learning.

Meaning and usage of 近付く

近付く is a Japanese verb that means "to approach" or "to get closer." It can be used in both physical and emotional contexts. For example, when someone approaches a place or when two people develop a closer relationship. The flexibility of this term makes it common in various situations.

An interesting characteristic is that 近付く often carries a connotation of gradual movement. Unlike words like 近寄る (ちかよる, chikayoru), which also means "to approach," 近付く suggests a continuous process, almost as if there is an intention behind the action. This explains why it appears so frequently in contexts of interpersonal relationships.

Origin and writing in kanji

The word 近付く is composed of two kanji: 近 (ちか, chika), which means "near", and 付く (つく, tsuku), which can be translated as "adhere" or "attach". Together, they form the idea of "becoming close" or "staying near". This combination is not random – it well reflects the sense of movement and permanence that the word carries.

It's worth noting that 近付く can also be written only in hiragana (ちかづく), especially in informal contexts. However, the kanji version is more common in written texts and helps to reinforce the original meaning of the word. For students, recognizing these characters facilitates memorization and correct usage in different situations.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 近付く is to associate it with everyday situations. For example, think of someone approaching a bus stop or a friend who is becoming closer emotionally. This connection to real-life scenarios helps to internalize the term naturally.

Another tip is to pay attention to how the word appears in songs and dialogues. Japanese artists often use 近付く to describe feelings of connection or moments of physical closeness. Listening to these expressions in context reinforces not only the meaning but also the correct pronunciation and intonation.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 近付く

• 近づく: verb in dictionary form
• 近づかない: negative form
• 近づきます: Polite way
• 近づいた: past
• 近づこう: conditional form

Synonyms and similar words

• 接近する (Sekkin suru) - approaching; movement towards something, with emphasis on the action.
• 近づく (Chikazuku) - getting closer; implies a gradual movement towards someone or something.
• 近接する (Kinsetsu suru) - to be close; often used in spatial or technological contexts.
• 近寄る (Chikayoru) - to approach; with a connotation of getting close to someone with a certain purpose or intention.

近付く

Romaji: chikaduku
Kana: ちかづく
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: approach; get close; to know; get closer.

Meaning in English: to approach;to get near;to get acquainted with;to get closer

Definition: To address things or people.

Example Sentences - (近付く) chikaduku

See below some example sentences:

彼女が近付いてきた。

Kanojo ga chikazuite kita

She approached.

She is coming closer.

• 彼女 - means "girlfriend" or "her"
• が - subject particle
• 近付いて - verb "chikazuite," which means "to approach"
• きた - The past form of the verb "kuru," which means "to come," is "kimashita" (きました) in polite form and "kita" (きた) in casual form.

彼女に近付けるように努力しています。

Kanojo ni chikazukeru you ni doryoku shiteimasu

I'm trying hard to get closer to her.

I'm trying to get closer to her.

• 彼女 (kanojo) - "Ela" significa "彼女" (kanojo) em japonês.
• に (ni) - a particle that indicates the target or recipient of the action
• 近付ける (chikazukeru) - a verb meaning "to approach"
• ように (youni) - an expression meaning "so as"
• 努力しています (doryokushiteimasu) - a verb meaning "I am trying hard"