Translation and Meaning of: 追い付く - oitsuku

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

Romaji: oitsuku

Kana: おいつく

Type: verb

L: jlpt-n3

追い付く

Translation / Meaning: to surpass; reach (someone)

Meaning in English: to overtake;to catch up (with)

Definition: Follow other things.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (追い付く) oitsuku

Etymology of the word 「追い付く」 (Oitsuku)

The Japanese word 「追い付く」 (oit.suku) combines two essential elements: 「追う」 (ou) and 「付く」 (tsuku). The verb 「追う」 means "to chase" or "to follow," while 「付く」 means "to adhere" or "to join." When combined, they form the compound verb 「追い付く」 (oitsuku), which describes the action of "catching up" or "matching" someone or something in motion. This formation follows a common logic in the Japanese language, where compound verbs are used to express more complex actions concisely.

Definition and Usage of 「追い付く」 (Oitsuku)

「追い付く」 (oitsuku) is widely used to describe the situation in which someone catches up to or equals another person or object that is ahead. It is commonly used in contexts of physical movement, such as when one is running after someone, but it can also be used figuratively. For example, one can use the term to indicate that they are "catching up" on progress in a project or "leveling up" in knowledge or skills in relation to others.

Origin and Cultural Context of 「追い付く」 (Oitsuku)

Historically, 「追い付く」 (oitsuku) portrays the importance of perseverance and determination in Japanese culture. In the context of traditional transportation, such as horses and, later, bicycles and cars, "to catch up" is a practical and necessary skill. Culturally, this verb also resonates with the value that Japanese people place on continuous effort and constant improvement, concepts deeply rooted in the philosophy of life and work in Japan. The frequent use of the expression in everyday life reflects this cultural emphasis on never giving up and continuing to move forward until achieving the desired goal.

In summary, 「追い付く」 (oitsuku) is not just a useful term in the Japanese language but also a window into the mentality and cultural values, emphasizing effort and perseverance in various aspects of life. Thus, it remains a relevant and powerful verb in many contexts, both everyday and metaphorical.

Verbal conjugation of 追い付く

See below a small list of verb conjugations: 追い付く (oitsuku)

追い付いている - Continuous form
追い付かない - Negative form
追い付けば - Conditional form
追い付いた - Passed form

Synonyms and similar words

追いつく (oi-tsuku) - Reach, hit (someone or something that was ahead)
追い込む (oi-komu) - Push to a corner, force a situation (usually an opponent)
追いかける (oi-kakeru) - Chase, run after something or someone
追い越す (oi-kosu) - Overtake (for example, in racing or traffic; it means to pass ahead of something or someone)
追い抜く (oi-nuku) - To overtake, to pass by someone (the nuance may indicate a faster or more decisive movement)