Translation and Meaning of: 机 - tsukue

The Japanese word 机 [つくえ] is a common term that many Japanese learners encounter early in their studies. But do you know everything about it? In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in the Japanese language. Additionally, we will provide practical tips for memorizing it and understanding its cultural context.

If you have studied Japanese, you probably know that 机[つくえ] means "desk" or "table." However, there is much more behind this simple word. Here at Suki Nihongo, we believe that understanding every detail of a term is essential to mastering the language. Let's dive into the most interesting aspects of this common word in Japan.

Meaning and usage of 机[つくえ]

The word 机[つくえ] mainly refers to a desk used for studying or working. Unlike テーブル (tēburu), which is a regular table for meals, つくえ has a connotation more related to study or bureaucratic work. If you've ever watched anime or Japanese dramas, you've probably seen students sitting at their つくえ during classes.

In Japan, the つくえ is an essential piece of furniture in schools and offices. It symbolizes discipline and dedication, especially in the educational context. Many Japanese children receive their first つくえ when they enter elementary school, marking the beginning of their academic journey. This cultural aspect helps explain why the word is so prevalent in daily life.

Origin and writing of the kanji 机

The kanji 机 consists of two radicals: 木 (tree) and 几 (small table). This combination is not a coincidence, as traditionally Japanese tables were made of wood. The radical 木 appears in many kanjis related to wooden objects, such as 椅子 (chair) and 本 (book).

Interestingly, the kanji 机 has a history that dates back to ancient China, where it was used to describe small tables. When it arrived in Japan, the term was adapted to specifically refer to study desks. This semantic evolution shows how kanjis can acquire specific meanings in different cultures.

Tips for memorizing つくえ

An effective way to memorize つくえ is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of a typical anime scene where students are studying at their desks - this mental image helps to anchor the vocabulary. Another tip is to that the kanji contains the radical 木, indicating that it was traditionally a wooden object.

To practice, try using つくえ in simple sentences like "I study at the desk" (私は机で勉強します). Repeating the term in real contexts is the best way to internalize it. At Suki Nihongo, we always recommend learning words within everyday situations, not in isolation.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• デスク (desuku) - desk or office table
• テーブル (teeburu) - Table in general, used for meals or meetings.
• 机上 (kijou) - On the table, or on the surface of the table
• 机戸 (kito) - Type of table or workspace (less common)
• 机面 (kimen) - Table surface
• 机上の (kijou no) - Regarding something that is on the table
• 机上の人 (kijou no hito) - Person sitting at the table or working on it
• 机上の空論 (kijou no kuuron) - Theory or discussion without practical application
• 机上の空論家 (kijou no kuuronka) - A person who discusses theories without practical application
• 机上の空論家たち (kijou no kuuronkatach) - Group of people discussing theories without practical application
• 机上の空論家たちの (kijou no kuuronkatachi no) - Belonging to theorists without practical application
• 机上の空論家たちの言い分 (kijou no kuuronkatachi no iibun) - Arguments of theorists without practical application
• 机上の空論家たちの言い分を (kijou no kuuronkatachi no iibun wo) - Considering the arguments of theorists without practical application
• 机上の空論家たちの言い分を聞く (kijou no kuuronkatachi no iibun wo kiku) - Hearing the arguments of theorists without practical application
• 机上の空論家たちの言い分を聞いて (kijou no kuuronkatachi no iibun wo kiite) - After hearing the arguments from theorists without practical application
• 机上の空論家たちの言い分を聞いても納得でき (kijou no kuuronkatachi no iibun wo kiite mo nattoku deki) - Even after hearing the arguments, he/she is still not convinced.