Translation and Meaning of: 這う - hau

The Japanese word 這う [はう] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances both in its meaning and in its everyday use. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding verbs like this can enrich your vocabulary and aid in communication. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts in which 這う is used, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

In addition to being a common verb, 這う has applications that range from literal descriptions to more metaphorical expressions. We will see how it appears in everyday sentences, its relation to Japanese culture, and even some curiosities that can facilitate your learning. If you are looking for a reliable dictionary to deepen your studies, Suki Nihongo is an excellent option to consult terms like this.

Meaning and use of 這う [はう]

The verb 這う [はう] means "to crawl" or "to drag oneself," usually used to describe the movement of animals or people who move close to the ground. For example, babies who are not yet walking may 這う while exploring their surroundings. This verb can also be applied to insects, such as ants or caterpillars, that move in a similar way.

In broader contexts, 這う can appear in literary descriptions or even in metaphorical expressions. A character in a book, for example, may "crawl" to hide or go unnoticed. The word is not extremely common in everyday life, but its use is quite specific when needed, making it relevant for Japanese language students.

Origin and writing of the kanji 這

The kanji 這 is composed of the radical 辶 (which indicates movement) combined with 言 (originally related to "speak," but here serving as a phonetic component). This combination suggests the idea of slow or careful movement, consistent with the meaning of "to crawl." The origin of the kanji traces back to classical Chinese, but its use in modern Japanese maintains the original semantic essence.

It is worth noting that 這う is a verb from group 1 (godan), which means that its conjugation follows a specific pattern. For example, in the past form, it becomes 這った [はった]. This detail is important for those learning Japanese grammar, as it helps to avoid common mistakes when forming sentences.

Tips for memorizing 這う

An effective way to memorize 這う is to associate it with concrete images or situations. Think of a baby crawling or a snake slithering on the ground. Creating flashcards with sentences like "赤ちゃんが這う" (the baby crawls) can also help, especially if you use methods like Anki for review.

Another tip is to pay attention to the radical 辶 present in the kanji, which appears in other verbs related to movement, such as 逃げる (to escape) or 進む (to advance). This visual connection makes it easier to recognize the character and its meaning in different contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 這う

• 這う conditional form
• 這った - past form
• 這え - imperative form
• 這い - Present form

Synonyms and similar words

• 這い這い (haihai) - Crawl; commonly used to describe the action of a baby crawling.
• 這い上がる (haiagaru) - Crawling up or struggling to get up; it can have a figurative sense of overcoming difficulties.
• 這い出す (haidashu) - Crawling out of; to crawl or struggle out.
• 這い回る (hairawaru) - Crawl around; move by crawling in various directions.
• 這い寄る (haiyoru) - Crawl towards; approach by crawling.
• 這い上げる (haiageru) - Crawling up; the act of rising from the ground, usually with difficulty.
• 這いつくばる (haitukubaru) - To kneel or crawl; to remain in a low position on the ground, often humbly.
• 這い進む (haisusumu) - Crawl forward; continue moving forward while crawling.
• 這い込む (haikomu) - Crawl inside; enter a space crawling.
• 這い戻る (haimodoru) - Crawling back; returning to the starting point crawling.
• 這いつく (haitsuku) - Crawl or cling; often implies anchoring oneself to the ground;
• 這いつくばって (haitsukubatte) - Crawling; gerund of this action.
• 這いつくばった (haitsukubatta) - Crawled; past tense of the action.

這う

Romaji: hau
Kana: はう
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: crawl; to crawl

Meaning in English: to creep;to crawl

Definition: Proceed with four.