Translation and Meaning of: つい - tsui

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word つい (tsui) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: tsui

Kana: つい

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n3

つい

Translation / Meaning: just now); enough (close); involuntarily; unconsciously; by mistake; against someone's better judgment

Meaning in English: just (now);quite (near);unintentionally;unconsciously;by mistake;against one's better judgement

Definition: The tendency to succumb to gravity or temptation and do the wrong thing.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (つい) tsui

The Japanese word 「つい」 (tsui) is primarily used as an adverb and has some interesting connotations in its daily use. One of its most common translations in Western languages refers to the action of something happening or being done "unintentionally" or "inadvertently." The term carries the idea that the action performed was not planned or intentional, but occurred almost impulsively.

In the etymology of 「つい」 (tsui), although there is no clear and distinct origin, it is widely associated with the concept of immediacy or proximity in actions. The expression conveys the feeling that something has just happened or was about to happen almost automatically. This makes it especially useful in contexts where intention or care is discussed, being closely related to the notion of subconscious or natural acts.

The everyday use of 「つい」 (tsui) can be observed in various situations, especially when talking about habits, such as overeating or inadvertently forgetting things. In this context, the term becomes relevant as it reflects the human nature of repetitive and often autonomous actions. Similarly, it can also be used to express regret about actions taken without full awareness or deliberate intention.

Various variations and contextual meanings make 「つい」 a fascinating example of how the Japanese language concentrates nuances in seemingly simple words. Its use transcends the simple indication of temporal proximity, introducing a layer of meaning that touches on human impulse and its consequences in daily behavior.

Synonyms and similar words

追い (oi) - chase; follow
着い (tsui) - arrive; reach (usually related to clothing)
付い (tsui) - attach; join; add
憑い (tsui) - possessed; to be under the influence of something
告い (tsui) - announce; inform (usually used in the context of revealing feelings)
追いつく (oiitsuku) - reach; achieve (a target or someone)
追い越す (oiokosu) - overtake; pass by someone quickly
付ける (tsukeru) - attach; place (something in); add
付く (tsuku) - be attached; hold; accompany
付け加える (tsuke add) - add (something to something already existing)
付属する (fuzoku suru) - attach; be subordinate; be associated
付き合う (tsukiau) - to associate; dating; to be in a relationship
付き纏う (tsukimato) - stay close; always be around
付け込む (tsukekomu) - explore; take advantage of something
付け替える (tsuke kaeru) - replace; swap (attachments or parts)
付け足す (tsuketasu) - add (more to something existing)
付け合わせる (tsuke awaseru) - combine; serve together (in a meal)
付け狙う (tsuke nerau) - try to get closer; aim at something (usually a goal)
付け根 (tsuke ne) - base; root (of an object)
付け入る (tsuke iru) - take advantage of an opportunity
付け外す (tsuke hazusu) - remove (attached accessory or object)
付け下げる (tsuke sageru) - download; release (an attached item)
付け上がる (tsuke agaru) - grow; increase (becoming more important)
付け回す (tsuke mawasu) - walk with; constantly accompany
付け合いの喧嘩 (tsuke ai no kenka) - fight over appropriations or attachments (figurative)