Translation and Meaning of: 椅子 - isu

If you are learning Japanese, you have certainly come across the word 椅子[いす], which means "chair." But do you know where it came from, how it is used in everyday life, or even how to memorize it effectively? In this article, we will explore the etymology, the pictogram, and the origin of this common word in Japanese vocabulary. Additionally, you will discover practical tips to fix it in your memory and even some curiosities that make it special. And if you want to enhance your studies, here at Suki Nihongo you can also find ready-made phrases to include in Anki or any spaced repetition software.

Etymology and Origin of the Word 椅子[いす]

The word 椅子[いす] has an interesting origin. The kanji 椅 (い) is derived from classical Chinese and originally referred to a type of seat with a backrest, while 子 (す) means "small" or "object". Together, they form the concept of "small seat with a backrest", which evolved into the modern meaning of "chair". Curiously, this word only became popular in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868), when Western furniture began to influence local culture.

Before that, Japanese people used to sit on the floor, using tatami mats or cushions. The introduction of the chair was a milestone in daily life, especially in public spaces and offices. Today, 椅子 is widely used in both formal and informal contexts, from classrooms to restaurants. Have you noticed how it appears in animes and dramas? It's one of those words that, once learned, you start to notice everywhere!

The Pictogram and the Writing of the Kanji 椅子

The kanji 椅 is composed of two radicals: 木 (wood) and 奇 (strange, unique). This makes sense, as the first chairs were made of wood and were, at the time, considered something different from the norm. As mentioned, 子 reinforces the idea of a small object. When you look at the complete kanji, 椅子, you can almost poetically visualize the structure of a chair: a seat (子) ed by wooden legs (木).

One tip for memorizing the writing is to associate the radical 木 with the traditional material of old chairs. The pronunciation いす is short and easy to — similar to "isso," which can be a great mnemonic hook. Try repeating it out loud: "Isso é uma いす!" It may seem silly, but it works. And if you already use chairs in your daily life, how about mentally naming them in Japanese every time you sit down?

Everyday Lies and Curiosities

椅子 is a versatile word. You can find it in cafés (カフェの椅子), schools (学校の椅子), and even in furniture assembly instructions. A curious fact is that, in Japan, there is even an expression — 椅子に座る (いすにすわる) — which literally means "to sit in the chair," but can also be used metaphorically to indicate that someone has taken a position of power, such as an important role.

Another interesting point is that, although いす is the most common reading, in some formal or historical contexts, the kanji can be read as きし (kishi), especially in architectural . But don’t worry: in everyday life, いす is more than enough. And if you are wondering how to practice, why not start by identifying all the 椅子 around you right now? It’s a simple exercise that helps to reinforce vocabulary naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 椅席 (イスeki) - Seat or place in an environment where one sits, which may refer to a specific location.
• 座席 (ざせき, zaseki) - Seat or place (usually in public transportation or events), implies a designated location to sit.
• 椅子席 (いすせき, isuseki) - Chair-shaped seat, emphasizes that the seat is specifically a chair.
• 椅子座 (いすざ, isuza) - Location or position of sitting in a chair, emphasizing the act of sitting in the chair.
• 椅座 (いざ, iza) - Another way to refer to the act of sitting down, though less common.
• いす (いす, isu) - Generic term for "chair," used in a general way.
• すわり (すわり, suwari) - The act of sitting can refer to the way of sitting.
• せき (せき, seki) - Seat or place (general), without a specific connotation.