Translation and Meaning of: 閉まる - shimaru

The Japanese word 閉まる (しまる, shimaru) is an essential verb for those learning the language, especially for describing everyday actions related to closing. Whether it is a door, a window, or even a commercial establishment, understanding its meaning, usage, and cultural context can enrich your vocabulary and prevent misunderstandings. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic translation to practical memorization tips and examples of how it appears in the lives of Japanese people.

Meaning and use of 閉まる

閉まる is a Japanese verb that means "to close" or "to be closed." Unlike 閉める (しめる, shimeru), which indicates the action of closing something, 閉まる describes the resulting state or an automatic closing. For example, a door that closes by itself or a store that has closed for the day.

This verb is frequently used in everyday situations, such as notices in establishments ("営業は5時に閉まります" – "The establishment closes at 5 PM") or in descriptions of objects that move through mechanisms ("ドアが自動的に閉まる" – "The door closes automatically"). Its application is so common that it even appears in safety instructions and manuals.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 閉 is composed of the radical 門 (gate) combined with 才, which historically suggests the idea of "blocking" or "preventing passage." This combination visually reinforces the concept of closure, making it easier to associate the character with its meaning.

It's important to highlight that 閉まる is one of the kun'yomi readings (Japanese) of the kanji, while the on'yomi reading (based on Chinese) is "ヘイ", as in 閉店 (へいてん, heiten) – "store closure". Knowing both readings helps expand vocabulary and understand common compounds.

Tips for memorizing and avoiding confusion

An effective way to differentiate 閉まる from 閉める is to remember that the former indicates a state or involuntary closing, while the latter requires a direct action. Phrases like "窓が閉まっている" (The window is closed) versus "窓を閉める" (I close the window) illustrate this distinction well.

Another useful curiosity is that 閉まる often appears in impersonal or mechanical contexts, such as in transportation systems ("改札機が閉まる" – "The ticket gate is closing"). Observing these patterns in animes, dramas, or even public signs can solidify learning in a natural way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 閉まる

• 閉まる dictionary form
• 閉まります Polite way
• 閉まっています Progressive form
• 閉まった Past form

Synonyms and similar words

• 閉じる (tojiru) - Close (something like a book or document)
• 閉める (shimeru) - Close (something you control, like a door or window)
• 閉る (shimaru) - Close (focus on something that closes automatically or by itself)

閉まる

Romaji: shimaru
Kana: しまる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: to close; to be closed

Meaning in English: to close;to be closed

Definition: Close: Something that was open closes again.

Example Sentences - (閉まる) shimaru

See below some example sentences:

ドアが閉まる。

Doa ga shimaru

The door is closing.

The door closes.

• ドア (doa) - door
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 閉まる (shimaru) - to close oneself