Translation and Meaning of: 向ける - mukeru

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

Romaji: mukeru

Kana: むける

Type: verb

L: jlpt-n3

向ける

Translation / Meaning: To turn; to point

Meaning in English: to turn towards;to point

Definition: point in a certain direction.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (向ける) mukeru

The Japanese word 「向ける」 (mukeru) is widely used in the Japanese language and has its origin in its kanji components and the Japanese verb. The kanji 「向」 means "direction" or "to turn towards", while the verbal suffix 「ける」 derives from a verb that expresses action or movement. Together, they form a transitive verb that means "to turn something towards a direction" or "to direct something towards a specific target." This etymology reflects the physical or metaphorical action of intentionally directing something.

「向ける」 (mukeru) is a versatile word in the Japanese language, used in various contexts. The term can literally mean to turn or orient something physically, such as moving a chair towards another person to facilitate communication. In a more figurative sense, it can be used to describe a shift in focus or attention, such as directing efforts towards a particular goal or channeling your energies to complete a specific task.

The geographical and cultural origin of the word 「向ける」 is deeply rooted in the everyday language and social habits of Japan. In ancient times, the idea of directing or turning towards something was often related to respect, discipline, and careful attention—traits valued in Japanese culture. Even today, in a business or academic environment, 「向ける」 is frequently used to describe dedication or focus on projects or research. Such usage reflects the high cultural value placed on intentional effort and concentration in Japanese culture.

The variation of the word, 「向く」 (muku), which is an intransitive verb, shares the same root「向」, but with a focus on something that is turned or oriented by itself, without a direct action from a person. Thus, both terms are different although related, in that 「向ける」 (mukeru) requires a deliberate action from someone, while 「向く」 (muku) indicates an orientation that can occur naturally.

Verbal conjugation of 向ける

See below a small list of verb conjugations: 向ける (mukeru)

向ける - Base form
向けます - Polite or formal way
向けた - Passed form
向けよう - Conditional form
向けて - て or imperative form

Synonyms and similar words

注ぐ (sosogu) - Pour something into a container.
託す (takusu) - Trust or delegate responsibility to someone.
送る (okuru) - Send something or someone to a destination.
送り込む (okurikomu) - Send to a specific place.
提供する (teikyo suru) - To provide or make something available to someone.
与える (ataeru) - To give or offer something to someone, typically of value or importance.
伝える (tsutaeru) - Transmit or communicate information to someone.
指向する (shikou suru) - Having a specific direction or focus on something.
誘導する (yūdō suru) - Guide or direct someone in a specific direction.
計画する (keikaku suru) - Plan or draw up a plan.
意図する (ito suru) - To have the intention or purpose of doing something.
意向する (ikō suru) - To have the willingness or desire to act in a certain way.
目指す (mezasu) - Aspire or have a specific goal.
向かわせる (mukawaseru) - To make someone or something go to a specific place.
向く (muku) - To be oriented or directed towards a specific direction.
向ける (mukeru) - To direct or guide something towards a target or objective.