Translation and Meaning of: 尤も - mottomo

The Japanese word 「尤も」, read as "mottomo" in romaji, is an interesting term that has both a literal meaning and contextual nuances. It is generally used to express "reason," "just," or "natural." When inserted into a sentence, it can mean something that is considered logical or expected within a specific context. This expression plays a significant role in the Japanese language, where the importance of logic and rationality in personal and professional interactions is often highlighted.

The etymology of 「尤も」 traces back to ancient Japanese and Chinese writings. The kanji 「尤」 has the basic meaning of "more" or "the most," denoting a superlative degree. When combined with も (mo), which can be understood as an emphatic suffix, the word takes on the meaning of something that is just or natural and indisputably true. This composition is a good example of how Japanese uses kanji to bring specific meaning and context to words.

In practice, 「尤も」 is frequently used in dialogues to accept or explain a fact that may initially seem surprising or unusual. For example, someone might say: "I don't really like sweets. Mottomo, except for chocolate." Here, the word highlights a point that, when looked at in greater detail, is entirely reasonable and accepted. This usage demonstrates the cultural nuance of valuing the balance between accepting facts and at the same time respecting exceptions and particularities.

Furthermore, 「尤も」 can be found in adjective forms, such as 「尤もな」 (mottomo na), which means "reasonable" or "justifiable." In this way, the basic word transforms to fit grammatically into different functions within a sentence, demonstrating the flexibility of Japanese in shaping words according to expressive needs. The use of this expression can be seen in various contexts, from everyday conversations to literature and formal discourse, serving as an effective tool to express agreement or justification.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 正しい (Tadashii) - Correct, fair, true
• 妥当 (Datou) - Adequado, apropriado
• 適切 (Tekisetsu) - Relevant, appropriate
• 正当 (Seitou) - Just, legitimate
• 妥当性のある (Datousei no aru) - That is appropriate, relevant.
• 妥当な (Datou na) - Adequate, appropriate (adjective form)
• 正しいこと (Tadashii koto) - Correct action, right thing
• 正当性 (Seitou-sei) - Justification, legitimate basis
• 正当性のある (Seitou-sei no aru) - That has legitimacy
• 正当な (Seitou na) - Legitimate, justified (adjective form)
• 適切な (Tekisetsu na) - Appropriate, suitable (adjective form)
• 適当 (Tekitou) - In an appropriate manner, suitable under certain circumstances.
• 適当な (Tekitou na) - Appropriate, suitable (adjective form)
• 妥当性 (Datousei) - Quality of being adequate, validity

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