Translation and Meaning of: 閉じる - tojiru

The Japanese word 閉じる (とじる, tojiru) is an essential verb for anyone learning the language. Its main meaning is "to close," but its use goes beyond the literal sense, permeating everyday situations and even cultural expressions. In this article, we will explore everything from writing and pronunciation to curiosities about how the Japanese perceive this word in their daily lives.

If you've ever wondered how to use 閉じる correctly or why it appears in unexpected contexts, keep reading. Here at Suki Nihongo, we've gathered accurate information to help students and curious minds master nuances that common dictionaries don't explain.

Meaning and use of 閉じる

The verb 閉じる carries the basic meaning of closing something, like doors, windows, or books. However, unlike the verb 閉める (しめる, shimeru), which also means "to close," 閉じる is more commonly used for objects that have pages or parts that come together, like an umbrella or the eyes. This subtle distinction is important to avoid common mistakes among students.

A classic example is the phrase 本を閉じる (ほんをとじる, hon o tojiru), which means "to close the book." Using 閉める here would sound strange, as the verb implies an action on something with moving parts that fit together. This detail shows how vocabulary choice in Japanese depends on the nature of the object.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 閉 is composed of the radical 門 (gate) combined with 才, which historically represented a lock. This etymology, recorded in sources like Kanjigen and the Gakken Kanji Dictionary, reflects well the meaning: something that blocks a passage. The reading とじる is one of the kun'yomi (Japanese readings) of the character, while the on'yomi (Chinese reading) is ヘイ.

Interestingly, 閉じる can also be written just in hiragana (とじる) in informal texts, but the kanji version is more common in formal writing. This flexibility is typical of many Japanese verbs, which alternate between forms depending on the context and level of politeness.

Cultural contexts and memorization tips

In Japanese culture, 閉じる appears in situations that go beyond the physical. Expressions like 心を閉じる (こころをとじる, kokoro o tojiru) mean "to close one's heart," describing someone who isolates themselves emotionally. This metaphorical use is common in dramas and songs, demonstrating how language reflects social values.

To memorize the word, an effective technique is to associate the kanji 閉 with images of gates closing. Students report that creating sentences like ドアが閉じた (the door closed) helps to reinforce both the meaning and the conjugation. Apps like Anki or WaniKani often use this method with good results.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 閉じる

閉じる - Positive Form
閉じろ - imperative form
閉じます - polite form
閉じた - past form

Synonyms and similar words

閉める (shimeru) - Close (an object, like a door or a window)
閉まる (shimaru) - Close (to become closed, the state of something that has been closed)
閉じこめる (tojikomeru) - Lock (something or someone in a closed space)
閉ざす (tozasu) - Close (metaphorically, as when one closes an opportunity or a heart)
閉鎖する (heisai suru) - Close (formally, as in an establishment or service that is being terminated)