Translation and Meaning of: 代わる代わる - kawarugawaru

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

Romaji: kawarugawaru

Kana: かわるがわる

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1

代わる代わる

Translation / Meaning: alternately

Meaning in English: alternately

Definition: Do this in shifts.

Sumário
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Explanation and Etymology - (代わる代わる) kawarugawaru

Etymology and Meaning of 「代わる代わる」

The expression 「代わる代わる」 (kawarugawaru) consists of the characters 「代」 and 「わる」, which are repeated to emphasize alternation. The first kanji, 「代」 (dai/yo), refers to substitution or change, while 「わる」 relates to "exchange" or "change". This redundant construction serves to enhance the idea of "successive turns" or "one thing after another", with the repetitive characteristic being a powerful linguistic tool in Japanese.

The usage and context of "代わる代わる".

The expression is used to describe situations where two or more entities perform actions alternately. Whether in social events, sports activities, or in more informal contexts, 「代わる代わる」 conveys a clear image of orderly alternation. For example, it can be used in sports narratives to describe players taking on different positions or in collaborative work, where team members alternate in tasks.

In this context, the expression symbolizes a fluid and harmonious movement, often used to highlight cooperation or coordination among the involved parties. Depending on the context, it may also bring to light nuances of friendly competition, where participants succeed each other in pursuit of a common goal.

Other Ways to Interpret 「代わる代わる」

The Japanese language makes extensive use of repetitions to enhance meanings and create rhythm. No exception is made with words like 「代わる代わる」. Alternatives to using this expression may include more descriptive phrases; however, the simplicity and clarity provided by 「代わる代わる」 are irreplaceable in its ability to effectively communicate the idea of successive exchange.

Radical "代": Refers to exchanging, substituting.
Common usage: To describe alternating activities.

Thus, the use of the expression in question not only enriches the description of everyday situations but also highlights the beauty of the Japanese language in its ability to capture complexity through simple and elegant linguistic forms.

Synonyms and similar words

代わり代わり (kawari-gawari) - Alternately; in shifts.
交替に (kōtai ni) - Alternately; swap one for the other.
代わりに (kawari ni) - Instead of; in place of.
交代で (kōtai de) - We do it in shifts; alternately.
代替する (daitai suru) - Replace; act as a substitute.
代わりになる (kawari ni naru) - Serve as a substitute.
代わり映えしない (kawaribae shinai) - No changes or updates; monotonous.
代わり映えのしない (kawaribae no shinai) - No variation; nothing new or different.
代わり映えのないもの (kawaribae no nai mono) - Something that shows no changes; without variety.