Translation and Meaning of: 金槌 - kanaduchi

If you are learning Japanese or are simply interested in Japanese culture, you may have come across the word 金槌[かなづち]. But what does it mean exactly? In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, writing in kanji, and even how it is used in everyday Japanese. Whether it is to enrich your vocabulary or understand a bit more about the language, you will discover everything about this word here on Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary.

Meaning and translation of 金槌 [かなづち]

The word 金槌[かなづち] is formed by the kanji 金 (gold, metal) and 槌 (hammer), and its literal meaning is "metal hammer." However, it can also be used in a broader context, such as a tool for work or even in metaphorical expressions. In English, the most direct translation would be "hammer," but it's worth noting that the term specifically refers to hammers made of metal, not wood.

In addition to its literal meaning, 金槌 can appear in more colloquial contexts or even in jokes. For example, someone might jokingly say they have a "金槌 head" to indicate stubbornness, although this expression is not as common as in Portuguese. The important thing is to understand that, in everyday life, Japanese people primarily use this word to refer to the tool itself.

Origin and writing in kanji

The origin of 金槌 dates back to feudal Japan, when metal tools became more common. The kanji 金, which means "gold" or "metal", is used here to indicate the material of the hammer, while 槌 represents the object itself. This combination is quite logical and helps to memorize the meaning of the word, as the kanjis reflect exactly what it describes.

It is worth noting that 金槌 is a compound word made up of commonly used kanji, which makes it relatively easy to learn for Japanese language students. If you already know the basic radicals, you will notice that 槌 contains the radical 木 (tree), which can cause confusion since the hammer in question is made of metal. However, this is a peculiarity of the evolution of Japanese writing, where some kanji retain old radicals even when the current meaning no longer corresponds to them.

Everyday use and curiosities

In Japan, 金槌 is a common word in hardware stores and construction sites. If you've ever watched a dorama or anime involving construction, you've likely heard it being used. It also appears in manuals and assembly instructions, as metal hammers are essential in various types of manual work.

An interesting fact is that, despite being a simple word, 金槌 rarely appears in casual conversations unless the topic is related to tools or repairs. Unlike terms like "hammer," which can be used in idiomatic expressions, its usage in Japanese tends to be more direct and literal. This makes it less versatile, but no less important for those who want to master the practical vocabulary of the language.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

鉄槌 (Tetsuzai) - Iron hammer; heavy tool used for impacts.
打撃器 (Dageki-ki) - Impact device; it usually refers to any instrument that causes impact.
たたき (Tataki) - Hammer (general) or striking blow; it can refer to various impact situations.
かなづち (Kanazuchi) - Carpenter's hammer; hand tool used for driving nails.