Translation and Meaning of: 卵 - tamago

The Japanese word 卵[たまご] is one of those that every Japanese language student encounters early in their studies. Its meaning, "egg," may seem simple, but there is much more behind this seemingly basic term. In this article, we will explore everything from its writing and pronunciation to cultural curiosities and tips for memorizing this essential vocabulary in daily life in Japan.

In addition to being a fundamental ingredient in Japanese cuisine, 卵[たまご] appears in everyday expressions and even in symbolic contexts. If you want to understand how the Japanese view eggs or need practical phrases to include in your Anki, keep reading. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, has gathered everything you need to know about this versatile word.

Meaning and writing of 卵[たまご]

Tamago [たまご] literally means "egg" in Japanese, whether from a chicken, fish, or any other animal. The kanji 卵 is composed of two elements: the radical for "insect" (虫) and a component that suggests the idea of "round." This combination makes sense when we think about insect eggs, which are small and rounded.

The reading たまご (tamago) is the most common in daily life, but the same kanji can have other pronunciations in compounds, such as らん (ran) in words like 卵白 (ranpaku - egg white). It's worth noting that, although the main radical is 虫, the term applies to eggs in general, not just those of insects.

Everyday use and cultural importance

In Japanese cuisine, 卵[たまご] is a ubiquitous ingredient. From the classic tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet) to raw egg over rice (tamago kake gohan), the Japanese have a true passion for egg-based preparations. Unlike some Western countries, consuming raw eggs is common and deemed safe in Japan, thanks to strict production standards.

Culturally, eggs appear in various expressions and symbols. For example, 卵焼き (tamagoyaki) is not just a dish but also a common item in bentō (Japanese lunch boxes), often prepared with love by mothers. In broader contexts, the word can represent potential or beginnings, as in the expression 卵の状態 (tamago no jōtai - embryonic state).

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An easy way to remember 卵[たまご] is to associate the sound "tamago" with "tá mago" (as if the egg were hurt). Although it's just a phonetic trick with no real relation to the meaning, it can help beginners. Another tip is to remember that the kanji looks like it's showing an insect (虫) with small eggs around.

Curiously, Japan has one of the largest varieties of chicken eggs in the world, classified by size, color, and even by the method of raising the hens. In supermarkets, it's common to find eggs with precise expiration dates and detailed information about their origin - a reflection of the seriousness with which the Japanese treat this staple food.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 卵黄 (ran'ō) - Egg yolk
• 卵白 (ranpaku) - Egg yolk
• 卵子 (ranshi) - Egg cell (ovum)
• 卵巣 (ransō) - ovary
• 卵殻 (rankaku) - Eggshell
• 卵形 (rankei) - Forma oval
• 卵焼き (tamagoyaki) - Fried egg (Japanese omelette)
• 卵料理 (tamago ryōri) - Egg cuisine
• 卵状の (tamago-jō no) - That has an egg shape.
• 卵形の (tamakei no) - In an oval shape