Are you interested in learning how to say “run” in Japanese? In this article, we will guide you through different ways to express running in Japanese, from the basic translation to more specific phrases.
Knowing how to run is essential for physical activity and sports-related conversations, so we’ll also teach you how to pronounce these expressions correctly. Additionally, we’ll explore the cultural significance of running in Japan, including traditional sports and marathon events.
Japanese writing uses three scripts: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Therefore, we’ll show you how to write “run” in each script and explain the meaning behind each character.
By the end of this article, you’ll feel confident about your understanding of “run” in Japanese, with a new set of vocabulary and cultural knowledge. Let’s start by understanding the basic word for “run” in Japanese.
Understanding the Basic Word for “Run” in Japanese
Before diving into specific expressions, it’s important to understand the basic translation of the word “run” in Japanese and how it is commonly used. The Japanese word for run is “hashiru” (走る). This verb is used to describe the action of running, jogging, or sprinting in Japanese.
It’s worth noting that “hashiru” is a transitive verb, meaning it requires an object in order to complete the sentence. For example, you would say “I run” as “Watashi wa hashiru” (私は走る), where “watashi” means “I” and “wa” is the topic marker. If you wanted to say “I run every day”, you would say “Mainichi watashi wa hashiru” (毎日私は走る), where “mainichi” means “every day”.
In terms of pronunciation, “hashiru” is pronounced as “hah-shee-roo”, with the emphasis on the second syllable “shee”. Pay attention to the long “ee” sound in the middle of the word to ensure correct pronunciation.
| Japanese | Translation |
|---|---|
| 走る | run |
Examples:
- “Watashi wa hashiru” (私は走る) – I run
- “Mainichi watashi wa hashiru” (毎日私は走る) – I run every day
Understanding the basic word for “run” in Japanese is essential for building a strong foundation in the language. In the next section, we will dive into common expressions related to running in Japanese.
Common Expressions for “Run” in Japanese
Now that you know the basic translation of “run” in Japanese, let’s explore some common expressions related to running.
Hashiru
The most common way to say “run” in Japanese is “hashiru” (走る). It’s important to note that Japanese is a syllabic language, so each syllable is pronounced clearly and evenly. To pronounce “hashiru,” break it down into three syllables: “ha-shi-ru.” Practice saying it slowly at first, then gradually increase your speed.
Joggu suru
If you want to say “jog” in Japanese, use the phrase “joggu suru” (ジョギングする). This phrase combines the English word “jogging” with the Japanese verb “suru,” which means “to do.”
Kakeru
“Kakeru” (駆ける) is another way to say “run” in Japanese. This verb has a sense of urgency and can be used to describe running quickly or rushing to do something.
Tokkun suru
“Tokkun suru” (特訓する) means “to train,” and can be used in the context of running or other physical activities. This expression is often used in the context of athletes or those who are training for a specific event.
With these common expressions, you’ll be able to talk about running in Japanese with confidence. Remember to practice your pronunciation and take your time to become comfortable with the sounds and rhythms of the Japanese language.
Writing “Run” in Japanese Characters
Japanese writing is a complex system that includes three scripts: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Each character has a specific meaning and pronunciation, making it essential to understand the basics before attempting to write in Japanese. Below, we will show you how to write “run” in each script and explain the meaning behind each character.
Hiragana
| Character | Pronunciation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ら | ra | Indicates the beginning of a word |
| し | shi | Represents the “s” sound |
| る | ru | Means “to do” |
| Total: |
To write “run” in Hiragana, you would combine these three characters: らしる (Rashiru).
Katakana
| Character | Pronunciation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ラ | Ra | Indicates the beginning of a word |
| ン | N | Represents a syllable with no vowel sound |
| Total: |
To write “run” in Katakana, you would combine these two characters: ラン (Ran).
Kanji
Kanji is a logographic script that uses Chinese characters to represent words and concepts. While there is no standard Kanji character for “run,” you can use the following characters to convey the meaning:
走る (Hashiru) – This Kanji means “to run” and is commonly used in Japanese.
ラン – This Katakana character can also be used in combination with the Kanji to write “run” in Japanese.
As you can see, there are several ways to write “run” in Japanese, depending on the script you choose to use. Understanding the basics of each script is key to proper communication in Japanese.
Cultural Significance of Running in Japan
Running has been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries. It has been used for various purposes, ranging from religious ceremonies to military training. Even today, running remains a popular activity in Japan, and is often seen as a symbol of perseverance and inner strength.
The Importance of Physical Activity in Japanese Culture
Physical activity is highly valued in Japanese culture. A healthy body is seen as essential for maintaining a healthy mind, and physical activity is believed to promote discipline, self-control, and a strong work ethic. Running is one of the most common forms of exercise in Japan, as it requires minimal equipment and can be done almost anywhere.
Traditional Sports Involving Running
Running plays a central role in several traditional Japanese sports, such as sumo, kabaddi, and kendo. In sumo, for example, wrestlers must have quick reflexes and explosive power, and running is an essential part of their training. Kabaddi, on the other hand, is a team sport that involves a lot of running, and requires players to be quick and agile.
Marathon Events in Japan
Japan is home to several popular marathon events, including the Tokyo Marathon and the Kyoto Marathon. These events attract thousands of runners from all over the world, and are seen as a way to promote physical activity and healthy living. Many Japanese runners participate in marathons as a way to challenge themselves and push their limits.
In conclusion, running is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and is seen as a way to promote physical and mental well-being. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner, running is a great way to stay active and immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
FAQ
Q: How do you say “run” in Japanese?
A: The basic word for “run” in Japanese is “hashiru.”
Q: What are some common expressions related to running in Japanese?
A: Some common expressions related to running in Japanese include “soukosou” (running fast), “jogingu” (jogging), and “rinningu” (running).
Q: How do you pronounce the word “run” in Japanese?
A: To pronounce “run” in Japanese, say “hah-shee-roo.”
Q: How do you write “run” in Japanese characters?
A: “Run” can be written in Japanese characters as “走る” in Hiragana, “ランニング” in Katakana, and “走” in Kanji.
Q: What is the cultural significance of running in Japan?
A: Running holds a unique cultural significance in Japan, with traditional sports like “ekiden” and marathon events being popular. Physical activity is also considered important in Japanese culture.