Translation and Meaning of: 迷う - mayou
On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 迷う (mayou) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.
Romaji: mayou
Kana: まよう
Type: noun
L: -
Translation / Meaning: get intrigued; be perplexed; lose their way
Meaning in English: to be puzzled;to be perplexed;to lose one's way
Definition: To be in a state where things are not clear.
Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases
Explanation and Etymology - (迷う) mayou
The Japanese word 「迷う」 (mayou) is a verb that is often translated as "to get lost" or "to be in doubt." The etymology of the word brings a rich history of meaning. 「迷」 (mei) is the main kanji, which carries the sense of "perplexity" or "confusion." The kanji relates to the idea of being lost, both physically and in terms of decision-making or thought.
The definition of 「迷う」 encompasses different aspects of the feeling of uncertainty. When someone says they are "mayou," it can refer to being physically lost in a place. However, the most common sense refers to the mental state of doubt or indecision. This verb is widely used in everyday life when discussing difficult decisions, such as choosing which course to enroll in or deciding between two job opportunities.
In terms of origin and cultural use, 「迷う」 is more than just being lost; it touches on cultural aspects of the Japanese mindset. In Japanese culture, indecision is not always viewed negatively. Sometimes, this state is seen as a natural part of the decision-making process, allowing for reflection and careful consideration. Furthermore, the concept of "ma" or "interval" in Japanese culture often values the space between decisions, where the time for "mayou" can be seen as an essential phase of contemplation.
Additionally, the term connects to expressions and philosophical concepts in Japan. For example, phrases like 「人生に迷う」 (jinsei ni mayou) can be translated as "to get lost in life," addressing a universal theme of seeking purpose and direction. This connection to introspection makes 「迷う」 a multifaceted word, rich in both linguistic and cultural nuances.
Synonyms and similar words
- 迷える (mayou) - To be disoriented, to be lost
- 逡巡する (shunjun suru) - Waver, hesitate when making a decision
- ためらう (tamerau) - Hesitate, be indecisive in acting
- ふらつく (furatsuku) - Oscillate, waver, have difficulty staying steady
- 悩む (nayamu) - Worry, anguish, be in doubt
- 狐につままれる (kitsune ni tsumamaru) - To feel confused, deceived, as if one has been tricked by a fox (often used to describe a situation of confusion)
- 真っ暗になる (makkura ni naru) - To become completely dark, possibly referring to not seeing clear options or paths.
- 踏みとどまる (fumitodoru) - Stop, hold your position, resist the temptation to advance.
Words related
Words with the same pronunciation: まよう mayou
How to Write in Japanese - (迷う) mayou
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese (迷う) mayou:
Example Sentences - (迷う) mayou
Below are some example sentences:
Mayou koto wa ningen rashii
It is human to feel lost.
It seems human to get lost.
- 迷う - (mayou) - It means "to be lost" or "to be in doubt".
- こと - (koto) - means "thing" or "fact"
- は - (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
- 人間 - (human) - "human being"
- らしい - (rashii) - suffix that indicates that something is typical or characteristic of something or someone
Watashi wa juujiro de mayotte imasu
I am lost in a crossroads.
I am lost in the crossroads.
- 私 - personal pronoun meaning "I" in Japanese
- は - topic particle indicating that "I" is the topic of the sentence
- 十字路 - noun meaning "crossing" in Japanese
- で - particle that indicates the place where the action takes place, in this case, the "intersection"
- 迷っています - verb that means "to be lost" in Japanese, conjugated in the present continuous
Other words of the same type: noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: noun
