Translation and Meaning of: 鎖 - kusari

The Japanese word 鎖[くさり] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting meanings and uses that are worth exploring. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding terms like this can enrich your vocabulary and even your cultural understanding. In this article, we will uncover the meaning, origin, and contexts in which this word is used in Japan.

Besides being a common term in everyday life, 鎖[くさり] also appears in expressions and even in works of Japanese pop culture. Whether you are studying for the JLPT or simply want to expand your knowledge, this guide will provide practical information and relevant curiosities. Let’s start exploring the basics: what does this word really mean?

Meaning and translation of 鎖[くさり] (kusari): chain.

鎖[くさり] is a Japanese word that means "chain" or "link." It refers to both physical objects, like metal chains, and more abstract concepts, like a sequence of interconnected events. For example, it can be used to describe a bicycle chain or even a food chain in scientific contexts.

It is worth noting that, although the kanji 鎖 may seem complex, its reading in hiragana (くさり) is relatively easy to pronounce. The word is often used in everyday situations, such as in hardware stores or in discussions about safety, where chains are mentioned. Its usage is straightforward and does not usually cause confusion, even for beginners in the language.

Origin and writing of the kanji 鎖

The kanji 鎖 is composed of the radical 金 (gold, metal) on the left, indicating its relation to metallic objects, and the component 小 on the right, which historically reinforces the idea of something that binds or connects. This combination is not random: it reflects the original meaning of the word, which is linked to metal chains, such as those used in gates or even in jewelry.

Interestingly, this kanji also appears in compound words, such as 鎖国[さこく] (national isolation), which refers to the period when Japan closed itself off from the outside world. Despite its clear origin, it's important to note that 鎖[くさり] is not one of the most frequently used kanjis in modern Japanese, appearing more in specific contexts than in casual conversations.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, 鎖[くさり] is not just a utilitarian object, but also a symbol in certain cultural contexts. For example, chains are used in Shinto shrines as part of rituals or decorations, representing the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. Additionally, the word may appear in mangas and animes, especially in scenes involving imprisonment or restriction of movement.

Although it is not one of the most common words in the daily vocabulary of the Japanese, it has its importance in areas such as engineering, security, and even literature. For Japanese language learners, learning 鎖[くさり] can be useful not only to expand their lexicon but also to better understand how simple objects can hold profound meanings in different cultures.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 鎖網 (sawa) - Chain link, used to trap or enclose.
• 鎖鏈 (saren) - Chain, a set of interconnected links.
• 鎖錠 (sajou) - Chain lock, a locking mechanism that uses a chain.
• 繋鎖 (kisar) - Chain that links or connects something, usually used to hold.
• 繋鎖網 (kisawa) - Chain link that connects or ties, used for fencing.
• 繋鎖鏈 (kisaren) - Connected current, emphasizing the linking function between objects.
• 繋鎖錠 (kisajou) - Chain lock that connects refers to the use of the chain in a locking system.

鎖

Romaji: kusari
Kana: くさり
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: current

Meaning in English: chain

Definition: Something that connects one end of something to the other end.

Example Sentences - (鎖) kusari

See below some example sentences:

鎖は重いです。

Kusari wa omoi desu

The chains are heavy.

The chain is heavy.

• 鎖 (kusari) - current
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 重い (omoi) - heavy
• です (desu) - Verb to be/estar in the present

このエリアは閉鎖されています。

Kono eria wa heisa sarete imasu

This area is closed.

• この - demonstrative pronoun meaning "this" or "this"
• エリア - noun that means "area"
• は - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 閉鎖 - noun meaning "closure" or "blockage"
• されています - expression that indicates that the closing action has been performed and is ongoing

封鎖された地域に入ることは禁止されています。

Fūsa sareta chiiki ni hairu koto wa kinshi sarete imasu

Entering a blocked area is prohibited.

It is forbidden to enter the lock.

• 封鎖された - blocked
• 地域 - area
• に - particle indicating destination or location
• 入る - login
• ことは - action of doing something
• 禁止されています - is forbidden