Translation and Meaning of: 袋 - fukuro

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

Romaji: fukuro

Kana: ふくろ

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n3

袋

Translation / Meaning: handbag; bag

Meaning in English: bag;sack

Definition: A container to store things.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (袋) fukuro

The word 「袋」 (fukuro) in Japanese is used to describe objects like bags and pouches. Its etymology reveals an interesting combination of meanings that has developed over time. The Kanji 「袋」 is composed of two important radicals: 「衣」 which means "clothes," "fabric," or "garment," and 「代」 which is related to substitution or representation, but does not have a conventional isolated meaning in the Kanji of 「袋」. The "clothes" radical suggests an object made of fabric, something that wraps or contains, hence the idea of a bag or pouch.

Historically, the word 「ふくろ」 (fukuro) has been used to describe different types of containers made from various materials, including paper, fabric, and plastic in modern times. In ancient Japan, bags were predominantly made of natural fabrics such as cotton or silk. The utility of bags has grown over the years, reflecting innovations in material production and the increasing mobility of people who needed practical solutions to carry goods and belongings.

In the Japanese cultural context, bags and sacks have a special meaning and are deeply rooted in everyday life. A notable example is the 美袋 (hinukuro), which designates elegant bags often used in tea ceremonies and other important cultural occasions. Furthermore, the term 「袋」 is an integral part of various idiomatic expressions and place names in Japan, reinforcing its presence in the Japanese language. This word highlights not only the functionality of the object but also its aesthetic and cultural importance in Japanese society.

Moreover, 「袋」 appears in various compound words such as 「手提げ袋」 (tesagebukuro), which means "handbag," an essential tool for modern everyday life in Japan, widely used for shopping and storage. This versatility of the word demonstrates the adaptability of the term, reflecting both the evolution of language and changes in sociocultural needs over the years.

Synonyms and similar words

袋 (fukuro) - Bag, usually used for storing or transporting items.
バッグ (baggu) - Bag, usually handheld, used to carry personal items.
ポーチ (pōchi) - Small bag or compartment, often used to store smaller items.
ケース (kēsu) - Case or case, used to protect or store specific items.
カバン (kaban) - Generic term for backpack or bag, usually larger and used for transport.
サック (sakku) - Sack, often used to describe a type of bag or flexible container.
パック (pakku) - Packaging or pack, it can describe a more structured bag or a set of items.
ポケット (poketto) - Pocket, which is a sewn compartment in clothing used to store small items.