Translation and Meaning of: 汚い - kitanai

The Japanese word 汚い (read as "kitanai") is a common term in everyday vocabulary, but its meaning and usage go beyond the simple translation of "dirty." In this article, we will explore what this word truly represents, from its origin to how it is culturally perceived in Japan. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding 汚い can help you avoid misunderstandings and use it correctly in different situations.

In addition to its literal meaning, 汚い carries nuances that reflect Japanese cultural values, such as the importance of cleanliness and organization. We will also see how it appears in specific expressions and contexts, along with tips to memorize its kanji. All of this is based on reliable sources, so you can learn accurately and practically. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides this detailed information to enrich your studies.

Meaning and usage of 汚い (kitanai)

The basic meaning of 汚い is "dirty" or "filthy," but its use can vary depending on the context. It describes anything from physically dirty objects to actions considered dishonest or unethical. For example, a messy room can be referred to as 汚い, just like a low blow in a competition.

In Japan, where cleanliness is highly valued, calling something 汚い can be a stronger judgment than in other cultures. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when using this word, especially in formal situations. In some cases, Japanese people may opt for softer expressions, such as ちょっと汚い (a little dirty), to avoid offending someone.

Origin and writing of the kanji 汚

The kanji 汚 consists of the water radical (氵) and the component 于, which suggests the idea of something distorted or impure. This combination reflects the meaning of the word well, as dirt is often associated with liquids or residues. The reading "kitanai" is one of the most common, but the same kanji can also be read as "yogosu" (汚す), which means "to dirty."

One tip for memorizing this kanji is to associate the water radical (氵) with the idea of something that needs to be washed. This strategy is useful for those learning Japanese, as many kanjis related to cleaning or dirt share this radical. Moreover, the shape of the kanji 汚 visually resembles something stained or contaminated, which can help solidify it in memory.

Cultural usage and expressions with 汚い

In Japan, 汚い not only refers to physical dirt. It can also describe behaviors considered "low" or "unfair." For example, in competitions, a treacherous move can be called 汚い手 (kitanai te), or "dirty hand." This expression illustrates how the term is connected to moral and ethical values in Japanese culture.

In more informal contexts, 汚い is sometimes used to describe something done in a disorganized or improvised manner. A poorly done job can be criticized as 汚い仕上がり (kitanai shiage), indicating that the result does not meet the expected standards. This usage reflects the importance that Japanese people place on precision and care in their activities.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 不潔 (Fuketsu) - Filthy, dirty
• 不潔な (Fuketsu na) - Filthy, dirty (adjective)
• 不浄 (Fujou) - Filth, impurity
• 不浄な (Fujou na) - Unclean, impure (adjective)
• 汚 (Kiyot) - Dirty, contaminated
• 汚い (Kitanai) - Dirty, unpleasant (adjective)
• 汚らわしい (Kitarawashii) - Disgusting, gross
• 汚れた (Yogoreta) - Dirty, stained (past participle)
• 穢れた (Kegareta) - Filthy, contaminated (past participle)
• 穢らわしい (Kegarawashii) - Repugnant, disgusting (more related to spiritual impurity)
• 腐った (Kusatta) - Rotten, decomposed (past participle)
• 腐敗した (Fuhai shita) - Corrupted, rotten (past participle)
• 腐臭のする (Fushuu no suru) - Exuding the smell of decay
• 腐臭を放つ (Fushuu o hanatsu) - Emit a smell of rot
• 腐臭を放つような (Fushuu o hanatsu you na) - Like something that exudes a smell of rot
• 腐臭を放つような臭い (Fushuu o hanatsu you na nioi) - A smell similar to that of decay.
• 腐臭臭い (Fushuu kusai) - Foul smell
• 醜い (Minikui) - Ugly, repulsive
• 醜悪 (Shuuaku) - Ugly, grotesque
• 醜悪な (Shuuaku na) - Ugly, grotesque (adjective)
• 醜態を晒す (Shuutai wo sarasu) - Display a shameful behavior
• 醜態を晒すような (Shuutai wo sarasu you na) - As someone who displays shameful behavior
• 醜態を晒すような行為をする (Shuutai wo sarasu you na koui wo suru) - Take actions that expose shameful conduct.