Translation and Meaning of: 軋む - kishimu

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

Romaji: kishimu

Kana: きしむ

Type: Noun

L: jlpt-n1

軋む

Translation / Meaning: jar

Meaning in English: to jar;to creak;to grate

Definition: The sound produced when sounds or objects rub against each other.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (軋む) kishimu

The Japanese word 「軋む」, pronounced as "kishimu", is a term frequently used to describe the sound or feeling of something creaking. The etymology of 「軋む」 is rooted in traditional Japanese language, with the use of the kanji 「軋」 symbolizing the action of creaking or squeaking, especially associated with the sound produced by rigid objects in friction, such as old wooden doors or metal wheels without proper lubrication.

「軋む」 is composed of the kanji 「軋」, which has the radical 車 (kuruma) meaning "car" or "vehicle," indicating a connection to things that move or need maintenance, such as wheels. This radical suggests the idea of movement and friction, as cars and other vehicles are often in motion. The sound "kishimu" is onomatopoeic, mimicking the creaking sound heard when two hard surfaces rub against each other.

The use of 「軋む」 can be observed in various everyday situations in Japan. For example, it can be employed in contexts involving old doors that creak when opened or closed, or a wooden staircase that makes a characteristic sound when walking on it. In addition to its literal use, the word is sometimes used figuratively to describe tensions or conflicts in a relationship, as if it were a mechanism that is not functioning smoothly due to some type of friction.

Synonyms and similar words

きしむ (kishimu) - deafening noises, creaking sounds, especially from something that moves or is used
ぎしゃぎしゃする (gishagisha suru) - make noise, often associated with irritating sounds, like paper or objects clashing
ぎちょんぎちょんする (gichon gichon suru) - make noise, frequently used to describe sounds of something sticky and viscous
ぎゅうぎゅうする (gyuugyuu suru) - to press or squeeze something, usually associated with a compressed or muffled sound
こつこつする (kotsukotsu suru) - make small, rhythmic sounds, like subtle beats
ごうごうする (gougou suru) - resounding or thundering, like the sound of strong wind or flowing water
しゃりしゃりする (sharishari suru) - make a crunchy or crispy sound, often associated with ice or sand
ずるずるする (zuruzuru suru) - sound of something moving slowly or dragging, often referring to liquids or sticky objects
ちょろちょろする (chorochoro suru) - sound is alive and continuous, often related to flowing water or small animals moving
つるつるする (tsurutsuru suru) - smooth and slippery state, soundless, but can be associated with the feeling of smooth movement without friction
ひっそり (hissori) - silently or discreetly, without noise, often in a context of tranquility