Translation and Meaning of: 造る - tsukuru

The Japanese word 造る [つくる] is an essential verb for anyone learning the language, especially for those interested in creation, construction, or manufacturing. Whether to understand its precise meaning, its origin, or how to use it in daily life, this article will explore everything you need to know about this expression. Additionally, we will delve into its cultural context and how it differs from other similar terms.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 造る is defined as "to create" or "to manufacture," but its use goes beyond the literal meaning. It appears in situations involving everything from the production of objects to the preparation of food and drinks, such as sake. If you've ever wondered why the Japanese use this word instead of others like 作る, keep reading to discover the nuances that make it so special.

Meaning and usage of 造る

The verb 造る carries a more substantial meaning than its counterpart 作る. While the latter is used for simpler things, such as making a drawing or preparing a meal, 造る implies a more complex process, often involving construction or manufacturing. For example, when talking about building a ship or producing an alcoholic beverage, this is the more appropriate word.

An interesting detail is that 造る can also be used in abstract contexts, such as in the creation of systems or organizational structures. This shows how Japanese values precision in the choice of terms, reflecting the nature and scale of what is being produced. If you are learning the language, paying attention to these differences can prevent misunderstandings.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 造 is composed of the radical 辶 (which indicates movement) and 告 (which refers to "announce" or "declare"). This combination suggests the idea of "bringing something into existence" or "building through a process." The etymology reinforces its use in contexts that require effort and technique, such as in civil construction or the artisanal production of food.

It is worth noting that 造る is not an archaic term, but it is also not the most common in everyday life. It frequently appears in industries, technical manuals, and even in menus of specialized restaurants. If you visit a sake factory in Japan, for example, it is quite likely that you will see this word used to describe the fermentation process.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 造る is to associate it with situations involving large scale or complexity. Think of "building a building" or "developing a detailed plan." This mental connection helps differentiate it from other similar verbs. Another tip is to remember that it frequently appears in industrial or artisanal contexts, such as in the production of ceramics or beverages.

Interestingly, 造る also has a philosophical side. In Shintoism, the idea of "creation" is linked to the origin myths of Japan, where the gods "constructed" the islands and the rules of the world. While it’s not a common usage, understanding this cultural layer can enrich your knowledge of the word and its significance in the Japanese mindset.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 作る (tsukuru) - Fabricar, produzir
• 創る (tsukuru) - Create, invent (usually in an artistic or creative context)
• つくる (tsukuru) - Simplified form of 作る, used in informal contexts.

造る

Romaji: tsukuru
Kana: つくる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1, jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: to do; to create; manufacture; elaborate; to write; to compose; ramp up; brother-in-law; grow crops; organize; to establish; compensate (a face); manufacture; prepare (food); commit (sin); ramp up

Meaning in English: to make;to create;to manufacture;to draw up;to write;to compose;to build;to coin;to cultivate;to organize;to establish;to make up (a face);to trim (a tree);to fabricate;to prepare (food);to commit (sin);to construct

Definition: Do, do.

Example Sentences - (造る) tsukuru

See below some example sentences:

私は自分の家具を造ることができます。

Watashi wa jibun no kagu o tsukuru koto ga dekimasu

I can make my own furniture.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 自分 (jibun) - reflexive pronoun meaning "myself"
• の (no) - possessive particle that indicates that something belongs to someone
• 家具 (kagu) - noun that means "furniture"
• を (wo) - direct object particle that indicates the target of the action
• 造る (tsukuru) - verb that means "to do" or "to build"
• こと (koto) - noun that indicates an action or event
• が (ga) - subject particle that indicates who performs the action
• できます (dekimasu) - verb meaning "to be able to" or "to be able to"