Translation and Meaning of: 捕らえる - toraeru

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

Romaji: toraeru

Kana: とらえる

Type: verb

L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

捕らえる

Translation / Meaning: to enjoy; to understand; capture; to secure

Meaning in English: to seize;to grasp;to capture;to arrest

Definition: To grab someone or something using hands or tools.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (捕らえる) toraeru

The Japanese word 「捕らえる」 (toraeru) is a verb that means "to capture", "to grab", or "to seize". This word is commonly used in the context of catching animals, apprehending criminals, or capturing a concept or idea. In the Japanese language, it is an expression that conveys the action of holding something physically or figuratively. This versatility in application makes it a very utilitarian word in everyday Japanese.

Etymologically, 「捕らえる」 (toraeru) is composed of the kanji 「捕」 which means "to catch" or "to capture". The verb is in the transitive form, implying that the action is directed towards a specific object. 「捕」 is associated with actions of capture and containment, reflecting this even in the way the ideogram is constructed. The components of the kanji include the radical 「扌」 which is related to the hand or manual actions, indicating directly the act of grasping or holding something with the hands.

The origin of this word goes back to ancient uses in the feudal period of Japan, where capturing enemies or wild animals was a common and essential action for survival and military strategy. Although times have changed, the essence of 「捕らえる」 remains relevant. In modern contexts, besides its literal use, the term can be used figuratively, such as "capturing attention" or "understanding" a complex concept.

In terms of usage variations, 「捕らえる」 can appear in different verbal forms depending on the context. For example, 「捕らえられる」 (toraerareru) is the passive form, indicating that something or someone has been captured. Other variations may include conjugations to express different tenses or moods, such as subjunctive or conditional, adapting the verb for more complex narratives. Furthermore, although 「捕らえる」 is quite formal, in colloquial Japanese, one can find variations or synonyms that have different nuances.

Therefore, the word 「捕らえる」 is not only a practical and versatile term in the Japanese vocabulary but also offers a glimpse into Japanese culture and history through its usage and etymological evolution over the centuries.

Verbal conjugation of 捕らえる

See below a small list of verb conjugations: 捕らえる (toraeru)

捕らえる - Present positive casual form
捕らえない - Negative present informal.
捕らえます - Polite positive present form
捕らえません Negative polite present form
捕らえた Past casual form
捕らえませんでした Past polite form
捕らえよう - Casual conditional form
捕らえましょう - Polite imperative form

Synonyms and similar words

捕獲する (Hokaku suru) - Capture, especially in the context of capturing animals or living beings.
捕まえる (Tsukamaeru) - Arresting or capturing someone; often used in everyday contexts.
捕捉する (Hosaku suru) - Capture or apprehend something in a more technical manner, such as in information or data.
拘束する (Kousoku suru) - To suppress or detain someone, usually in a containment context.
捕らわれる (Toraware ru) - Being captured or imprisoned; it connotes a feeling of seclusion or captivity.