Translation and Meaning of: 留まる - todomaru

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

Romaji: todomaru

Kana: とどまる

Type: Noun

L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n5

留まる

Translation / Meaning: 1. to be repaired; 2. To fulfill; stay (in one place)

Meaning in English: 1. to be fixed; 2. to abide;to stay (in the one place)

Definition: Stay in one place.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (留まる) todomaru

Etymology of 「留まる」

The Japanese word 「留まる」, read as "todomaru", is composed of the kanji 「留」 which carries meanings such as "to stop", "to stay", or "to hold", and the verbal part 「まる」, which is a form of indicative verb. The kanji 「留」 is used in contexts that involve the idea of retaining or holding something in place, and its origin can be traced back to radicals that represent the idea of a net or encircled object repurposed in the Japanese language for causes of stability or constancy.

Definition and Uses

The expression 「留まる」 refers to the act of staying in a certain place or condition without changes. This word is often used to describe objects, people, or even situations that do not move or remain stable in a specific location. It is a term that can be applied both in a physical sense, such as when we refer to a person who remains in a city, as well as in a figurative sense, such as thoughts that stay in the mind.

Use in the physical sense: to remain in a place, such as in "stay at home."
Figurative use: thoughts that remain in the mind.
Emotional context: feelings that do not fade away.

Origin and Historical Context

Historically, the notion of "todomaru" has been associated with stability during times of great change in Japan. During periods of political and social instability, a person's ability to "stay" or "remain" in a position could be seen as a virtue. The expression has evolved, but it remains an important concept in contemporary Japanese society, where personal and professional stability is highly valued. With globalization, the term has become useful to express the importance of not moving in an ever-changing world.

Moreover, the word has popular variations in Japanese, such as 「止まる」 (tomaru), which, although similar in meaning, generally implies only the cessation of movement without the connotation of permanence. While 「留める」 (tomeru) would imply actively retaining something, which is directly related to the act of "todomaru." These nuances make 「留まる」 a word rich in meaning and applicability in daily life.