Translation and Meaning of: 如何して - doushite

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

Romaji: doushite

Kana: どうして

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1, jlpt-n5

如何して

Translation / Meaning: Why?; Why; as; in what way; For what purpose; what

Meaning in English: why?;for what reason;how;in what way;for what purpose;what for

Definition: Sorry, the word "como" does not exist in the Japanese dictionary. I can help you with other words, so I would appreciate it if you could tell me more specific words.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (如何して) doushite

The expressions 「如何して」 (doushite) and 「どうして」 (doushite) are often used to ask "why" or "how" in Japanese. Although they are interchangeable in many contexts, a detailed analysis reveals distinct nuances and origins. 「如何して」 is a more formal and somewhat archaic term composed of the characters 「如」 (nyo/jo) meaning "how," and 「何」 (ka/nani) meaning "what." The suffix 「して」 derives from 「する」 (suru), which is the verb "to do." Thus, etymologically, the expression can be understood as "how to do" or "in what manner."

Despite its origins, the more simplified version, 「どうして」, is widely used in everyday language. The simplicity of this form reflects the evolution of the Japanese language towards shorter and more practical forms. The term is often employed to express curiosity or the need for explanation. The difference in usage between these variations is present in formal versus informal contexts, and between written versus spoken language.

Interestingly, etymology also provides insights into the constantly evolving Japanese culture and language. The fact that the simplified form 「どうして」 is more common in everyday use suggests a cultural preference for more direct forms of communication, especially in modern society. It is noteworthy that this word often appears in conversations seeking a reason or justification for something, reflecting a universal characteristic of human curiosity and the quest for understanding.

Synonyms and similar words

どうやって (douyatte) - How (in a practical or technical way)
どうして (doushite) - Why (inquiry about reason)
どうすれば (dousureba) - What should I do? (suggesting a solution)
どうしたら (doushitara) - How should I do it? (suggesting a method)
どういう風に (dou iu fu ni) - In what way (requesting specification about method)
どういう手段で (dou iu shudan de) - By what means (asking about the methods or strategies)