Translation and Meaning of: 留める - todomeru

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

Romaji: todomeru

Kana: とどめる

Type: verb

L: jlpt-n4, jlpt-n3

留める

Translation / Meaning: to stop; cease; put an end to

Meaning in English: to stop;to cease;to put an end to

Definition: To keep things in their place.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (留める) todomeru

The word 「留める」 (tomeru) is a Japanese verb that has several interpretations and applications, being quite versatile. The etymology of the word comes from the kanji 「留」 which can mean "to hold" or "to fix," and 「める」 which is a form of verbal ending indicating action. Together, the word conveys the idea of something being kept in place or an action being completed or finalized. This multifunctionality of the verb makes it applicable in various contexts within the Japanese language.

In its written form with kanji, 「留める」 is used to describe actions such as fastening or securing something, like a nail in a wall. The context determines what kind of action is being performed, since, unlike Portuguese, where there are specific words for fastening or holding, Japanese uses context to define the action. Alternatively, when written in hiragana as 「とどめる」, the verb often takes on a more abstract meaning, such as "to contain" a feeling or "to limit" an action.

The origin of the verb 「留める」 dates back to the classical period of the Japanese language, where it was used to describe the act of securing objects or containing emotions. Nowadays, this historical function is still preserved in its meaning. In more modern contexts, 「留める」 can be seen in expressions used to indicate the completion or conclusion of an action, such as in negotiations or discussions, reinforcing the idea of finalization. Additionally, derived expressions like 「心に留める」 (kokoro ni tomeru), which means "to keep in one's heart," demonstrate the semantic richness and broad usage of this word in emotional or sentimental situations.

It is interesting to note that the application of 「留める」 can vary depending on the dialect or region of Japan, reflecting the cultural and linguistic nuances of each area. Therefore, understanding the use of 「留める」 is not limited to its literal meaning, but also to its historical and social context. This makes it a fascinating word for Japanese learners and for those interested in Japanese culture, a true window into how Japanese society expresses interactions and emotions.

Verbal conjugation of 留める

See below a small list of verb conjugations: 留める (todomeru)

留める: Basic form
留めます: Polite way masu
留めた: Simple past form
留めない: Negative form
留めよう: Conditional form

Synonyms and similar words

止める (Tomeru) - Stop, interrupt something.
固める (Kodomaru) - Strengthen, consolidate something, especially in a physical context.
守る (Mamoru) - Protect, defend something or someone.
保つ (Tamotsu) - Maintain, preserve something in a specific state.
維持する (Iji suru) - Maintain something in its original condition or stabilize.