Translation and Meaning of: 鋸 - nokogiri

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about traditional tools, you may have come across the word 鋸 (のこぎり). It represents a common object in daily life, but carries interesting particularities in the Japanese language and culture. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and use of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it and its cultural context. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to make learning Japanese more accessible and practical.

Meaning and writing of 鋸 (のこぎり)

The word 鋸 (のこぎり) means "saw," referring to the tool used to cut wood, metal, or other materials. The kanji 鋸 is composed of the radical 金 (kin), which indicates metal, and 居 (kyo), which suggests the idea of "being present." Together, they form a visual representation of a toothed blade, essential for the operation of the saw.

In Japanese, のこぎり is a commonly used word, especially in contexts of construction, carpentry, and even in household activities. The pronunciation is clear and straightforward, with no significant dialectal variations, making it easier for language learners.

Origin and cultural curiosities

The saw has a long history in Japan, being an essential tool since ancient times. Unlike Western saws, traditional Japanese saws (such as the 鋸) are designed to cut by pulling rather than pushing, which increases precision and reduces effort. This detail reflects the efficiency and care present in Japanese culture.

Additionally, the word のこぎり appears in expressions and proverbs, although it is not as common as other tools. One example is the term 鋸戦法 (のこぎりせんぽう), used in military or sports strategies to describe a zigzag attack, inspired by the movement of a saw.

Tips for memorizing and using 鋸 (のこぎり)

To remember this word, a helpful hint is to associate the sound "noko" with the act of "cutting" (as in "nokogiru", which means to saw). The kanji 鋸 can also be broken down into its radicals, helping to visualize its relationship with metal and the action of cutting. This technique is useful for those learning to write Japanese characters.

If you practice woodworking or have an interest in tools, try using the word in sentences like "この鋸はよく切れる" (kono nokogiri wa yoku kireru – "this saw cuts well"). Practicing with real contexts reinforces vocabulary in a more natural and lasting way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• のこぎり (nokogiri) - mountain range
• ソー (sō) - mountain range
• 鋸鉈 (nokonata) - Great mountain or knife mountain
• 鋸刃 (nokoba) - Saw blade

鋸

Romaji: nokogiri
Kana: のこぎり
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: mountain range

Meaning in English: saw

Definition: Saw: A tool for cutting wood, etc.

Example Sentences - (鋸) nokogiri

See below some example sentences:

鋸で木を切ります。

Kobiki de ki wo kirimasu

I cut the wood with a hacksaw.

Cut the tree with a saw.

• 鋸 (noko) - mountain range
• で (de) - with
• 木 (ki) - wood
• を (wo) - direct object
• 切ります (kirimasu) - cut