親しむ
親しむ en 30 segundos
- A verb meaning to become intimate or familiar with something or someone.
- Commonly used for hobbies, nature, and developing platonic friendships.
- Always uses the particle 'ni' for the object (e.g., Nature ni shitashimu).
- Carries a warm, affectionate nuance of long-term companionship and ease.
The Japanese verb 親しむ (shitashimu) is a multifaceted word that translates most commonly to 'to become intimate with,' 'to become familiar with,' or 'to enjoy/be fond of.' At its core, it describes a process of closing the distance—emotionally, intellectually, or physically—between oneself and another entity. This entity can be a person, a hobby, a natural environment, or even an abstract concept like literature or music. Unlike the English word 'familiarize,' which can sometimes feel clinical or purely cognitive, shitashimu carries a warm, emotional resonance. It implies a sense of affection and comfort that grows over time. When you use this word, you are suggesting that something has moved from being 'foreign' or 'outside' to being 'dear' and 'inside' your personal circle.
- Emotional Nuance
- The verb is derived from the kanji 親, which means 'parent' or 'intimacy.' This suggests a foundational bond, similar to the closeness one feels within a family. It implies a lack of barriers or formalities.
- Active Engagement
- To shitashimu is not passive. It often describes the act of regularly engaging with something, such as 'enjoying nature' (自然に親しむ) or 'being a regular reader' (読書に親しむ).
子供の頃から、私は海に親しんできました。(Since I was a child, I have been close to/familiar with the sea.)
In social contexts, shitashimu describes the development of a friendship that is easy-going and devoid of strict social hierarchies. It is the stage where you no longer feel the need to use overly formal language or feel 'on edge.' It is also frequently used in educational and promotional contexts in Japan. For instance, a museum might have a slogan like 'Art that you can feel close to,' using shitashimu to mean that the art is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, not just experts.
彼女は多くの人々に親しまれている。(She is well-loved/popular among many people.)
Furthermore, the word is often seen in the form shitashimi-yasui (easy to approach/friendly). This adjective form describes people or things that don't feel intimidating. Whether it's a teacher who is easy to talk to or a software interface that is intuitive, shitashimu is the root of that feeling of 'ease' and 'connection.' It is a word that bridges the gap between the self and the world.
- Cultural Context
- In Japanese culture, which often emphasizes the distinction between 'uchi' (inside) and 'soto' (outside), shitashimu represents the movement of something from the 'soto' to the 'uchi'.
万葉集の時代から、日本人は自然に親しんだ。(Since the era of the Manyoshu, Japanese people have been intimate with nature.)
Ultimately, shitashimu is about the joy of connection. It is used more frequently than the English 'to be intimate' because it covers a broader range of everyday activities and relationships. It is the word for the warmth of a well-read book, the comfort of a childhood park, and the ease of a lifelong friend.
Grammatically, 親しむ (shitashimu) is an intransitive verb that almost always takes the particle に (ni) to indicate the object of one's familiarity or affection. The basic structure is [Noun] に 親しむ. This differs from English, where we 'enjoy' (transitive) something. In Japanese, you 'become close to' the thing. Understanding this particle usage is crucial for sounding natural.
- The 'Ni' Particle
- Think of ni as the direction of your heart or interest. You are directing your sense of intimacy toward a specific target. Example: 音楽に親しむ (To enjoy/be familiar with music).
彼は古い書物に親しんでいる。(He is familiar with/enjoys old books.)
When used with people, you can also use the particle と (to), which implies a mutual process. [Person] と 親しむ means to become close with someone. However, [Person] に 親しむ is also common, especially in the passive form 親しまれる (to be liked/loved by...). This passive form is extremely frequent when describing a person's popularity or the widespread use of a nickname.
この公園は市民に広く親しまれています。(This park is widely enjoyed/loved by the citizens.)
Another common variation is the compound verb 慣れ親しむ (nare-shitashimu). This combines naru (to get used to) and shitashimu (to become intimate with). It describes the process of something becoming second nature to you because you've used it or lived with it for so long. For example, 慣れ親しんだ土地 (a land one is well-acquainted with/home soil).
- Common Conjugations
- 親しむ (Dictionary): To become familiar.
- 親しまない (Negative): To not become familiar.
- 親しんだ (Past): Became familiar.
- 親しみ (Noun/Stem): Familiarity/Intimacy.
新しい環境に早く親しもうと努めた。(I tried to quickly get used to/familiarize myself with the new environment.)
In formal writing, shitashimu might be replaced by more technical terms like shinkō o fukameru (to deepen a friendship), but in general prose, novels, and daily conversation, shitashimu remains the go-to word for expressing a positive, burgeoning connection. It is versatile, appearing in everything from children's stories to academic essays about human-nature relationships.
You will encounter 親しむ (shitashimu) in a variety of settings, ranging from the very formal to the quite personal. One of the most common places is in public service announcements or educational slogans. Japanese schools often encourage students to 'become familiar with books' (本に親しむ) or 'interact with nature' (自然に親しむ). These phrases are ubiquitous on posters in libraries and community centers, emphasizing a lifestyle of curiosity and appreciation.
- In Media and News
- News anchors often use the passive form 親しまれている when talking about a beloved public figure or a local landmark that is closing down. 'Ame-chan no aishō de shitashimarete iru...' (He is affectionately known by the nickname 'Ame-chan'...).
その歌手は「国民的スター」として親しまれている。(That singer is loved by the public as a 'national star'.)
In the world of literature and art, critics use shitashimu to describe how an audience engages with a work. A book might be described as 'easy to be familiar with' because of its simple language, or a difficult philosophy might be something that 'takes time to become familiar with.' This word captures the journey of understanding and appreciation that happens between a person and a piece of culture.
茶道に親しむ機会はなかなかありません。(There aren't many opportunities to get familiar with tea ceremony.)
In corporate branding, companies use the noun form 親しみやすさ (approachability/friendliness) as a key metric for their products. A brand like MUJI or Uniqlo aims for a 'shitashimi-yasui' design—something that fits into daily life without standing out too harshly. When you hear a Japanese person say a brand feels 'shitashimi ga aru,' they mean it feels like an old friend or a reliable staple in their life.
- Daily Conversation
- Friends might use it when discussing new gadgets or apps. 'Kono apuri, sugu ni shitashimeru ne' (This app is easy to get used to/comfortable with right away).
彼は誰とでもすぐに親しくなれる。(He can become close with anyone immediately.)
Finally, in nature documentaries or travelogues, you will hear it used to describe the relationship between people and their environment. Japan's traditional 'Satoyama' culture—where humans live in harmony with the surrounding forest—is frequently described as a lifestyle of 'nature ni shitashimu.' It suggests a profound respect and a lack of desire to conquer nature, but rather to live within it as a friend.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with 親しむ (shitashimu) is using the wrong particle. In English, we 'enjoy' something (direct object). This leads learners to use the particle o (を). However, shitashimu is intransitive. Saying 'Nature o shitashimu' is grammatically incorrect. You must say 'Nature ni shitashimu'. Think of it as 'becoming intimate *to* nature' or 'drawing close *to* nature.'
- Confusing Adjective and Verb
- Learners often confuse the verb shitashimu with the adjective shitashii (close/intimate). While they share the same kanji, shitashii describes a state ('We are close friends'), whereas shitashimu describes the action or process of becoming or being close.
❌ 音楽を親しむ。
✅ 音楽に親しむ。
Another mistake is overusing shitashimu for simple hobbies. If you just like playing video games, suki or tanoshimu is more appropriate. Shitashimu implies a deeper, more enduring connection. If you say you 'shitashimu' video games, it sounds like you treat them as a companion or a cultural pursuit rather than just a quick diversion. It’s a subtle nuance, but using it for trivial things can sound a bit overly poetic or 'heavy'.
❌ 仕事の仕方に親しむ。
✅ 仕事の仕方に慣れる。
Confusion also arises with the passive form shitashimarete iru. Learners sometimes think this means 'is being befriended.' While technically true, its actual usage is closer to 'is well-loved' or 'is a household name.' If you want to say 'He is being befriended by Tanaka,' you would more likely say 'Tanaka-san wa kare to nakayoku narou to shite iru.' The passive shitashimarete iru is almost always used for general popularity among a group of people.
- Misunderstanding 'Shitashimi-yasui'
- Some learners use this to mean 'easy to understand' (wakari-yasui). While things that are 'shitashimi-yasui' are often easy to understand, the focus is on the *feeling* of approachability, not the cognitive difficulty.
Lastly, be careful with the context of 'intimacy.' In English, 'intimate' can have romantic or sexual connotations. In Japanese, shitashimu and its derivatives are generally platonic, wholesome, and social. Using it to describe a romantic partner is possible but usually sounds more like you are 'close companions' rather than 'passionate lovers.' For romantic intimacy, other words like mitsu-getsu or shinmitsu are more specific.
To truly master 親しむ (shitashimu), you must understand how it sits alongside similar verbs. The most common alternative is 慣れる (nareru). While both involve becoming accustomed to something, nareru is neutral and focuses on the loss of 'newness' or 'difficulty.' You nareru to a new shoes or a cold climate. You shitashimu to a poem or a garden. The latter involves your heart.
- Shitashimu vs. Nakayoku naru
- Nakayoku naru (to become friends) is the most common way to describe making friends. It is more colloquial and focuses on the social bond. Shitashimu is more literary and can apply to things/nature, which nakayoku naru cannot (you don't 'become friends' with a book in the same way).
- Shitashimu vs. Tanoshimu
- Tanoshimu means 'to enjoy.' It is a broader term. You can tanoshimu a party for one night. Shitashimu implies a habitual, ongoing relationship. You shitashimu a hobby over years.
彼はジャズを楽しんでいる。(He is enjoying jazz [right now/generally].)
彼はジャズに親しんでいる。(He is well-versed in and has a deep affinity for jazz.)
Another related term is 愛好する (aikō-suru). This is a more formal, Chinese-origin word (kango) that means 'to love and practice' a hobby. You might see this on a club application form. While shitashimu is warm and emotional, aikō-suru is structured and formal. Someone who shitashimu photography might just love taking photos of their dog; someone who aikō-suru photography likely has expensive gear and belongs to a society.
動物と触れ合うことで、心が癒やされる。(By interacting with animals, the heart is healed.)
Finally, consider 嗜む (tashinamu). This is a high-level word often confused with shitashimu because of the sound. Tashinamu means to have a refined taste for or to practice a traditional art (like tea ceremony or martial arts) with a sense of discipline. While shitashimu is about closeness, tashinamu is about cultivation and etiquette. You shitashimu nature; you tashinamu the way of tea.
- Comparison Table
- 親しむ: Emotional intimacy, habitual enjoyment.
- 慣れる: Becoming used to, losing novelty.
- 愛好する: Formal 'hobbyist' term.
- 嗜む: Refined practice/etiquette.
Choosing the right word depends on the 'temperature' of the relationship. Shitashimu is the 'warm' choice, perfect for describing the things that make life feel comfortable and connected.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
The kanji 親 (Shin/Oya) is made of 'stand' (立), 'tree' (木), and 'see' (見). It is often taught that a parent is one who 'stands on a tree and watches over' their child, emphasizing the protective gaze and closeness.
Guía de pronunciación
- Stressing the first syllable like English 'SHI-tashimu'.
- Over-pronouncing the final 'u'.
- Confusing the 'shi' with 'si'.
- Making the 't' too aspirated.
- Misplacing the pitch accent on the second syllable only.
Nivel de dificultad
The kanji is common, but the verb ending requires distinguishing it from other 'shimu' verbs.
The kanji 親 is basic, but the stroke order must be correct.
Using the 'ni' particle correctly is the main challenge.
Distinct sound, easy to pick up in context.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Intransitive Verbs with に
音楽に親しむ (To enjoy music).
Passive for Popularity
国民に親しまれている (Is loved by the public).
Compound Verbs (V-stem + Verb)
慣れ親しむ (To become very used to).
Adjective formation with -yasui
親しみやすい (Easy to get close to).
Noun form as stem
親しみを感じる (To feel familiarity).
Ejemplos por nivel
彼は私の親しい友達です。
He is my close friend.
Uses the adjective form 'shitashii'.
みんなと仲良くしましょう。
Let's get along with everyone.
A1 alternative to 'shitashimu'.
日本のアニメに親しみがあります。
I feel a sense of familiarity with Japanese anime.
Uses the noun 'shitashimi'.
この本は読みやすいです。
This book is easy to read.
Focuses on 'easy to...' concept.
先生はとても優しいです。
The teacher is very kind.
Describes approachability simply.
私は海が好きです。
I like the sea.
Basic 'like' sentence.
毎日日本語を話します。
I speak Japanese every day.
Daily engagement.
友達と遊びます。
I play with my friends.
Basic social interaction.
週末は自然に親しみます。
I enjoy nature on weekends.
Standard B1 verb used in A2 context.
この町は親しみやすい雰囲気です。
This town has a friendly atmosphere.
Uses 'shitashimi-yasui'.
彼は子供たちに親しまれています。
He is loved by children.
Passive form 'shitashimarete iru'.
読書に親しむことは大切です。
It is important to be familiar with reading.
Verb as a subject phrase.
新しいクラスに早く親しみたいです。
I want to get used to the new class soon.
Expressing desire with -tai.
彼女は誰にでも親しく接します。
She treats everyone in a friendly way.
Adverbial use 'shitashiku'.
この歌は昔から親しまれています。
This song has been loved for a long time.
Passive + state of being.
日本の文化に親しむ機会が増えました。
Opportunities to get familiar with Japanese culture have increased.
Noun modification.
幼い頃からクラシック音楽に親しんできました。
I have been familiar with classical music since I was young.
Present perfect continuous nuance with -te kita.
彼はそのニックネームで親しまれている。
He is affectionately known by that nickname.
Common usage for nicknames.
もっと多くの人に科学に親しんでもらいたい。
I want more people to become familiar with science.
Causative-like desire with -te moraitai.
慣れ親しんだ家を離れるのは寂しい。
It is sad to leave the house I am so familiar with.
Compound verb 'nare-shitashinda'.
地域の行事に参加して、住民と親しむ。
Participate in local events and get close to the residents.
Verb used for social integration.
このデザインは親しみやすさを重視している。
This design emphasizes approachability.
Noun form as an object.
万葉集の歌は、今でも多くの人に親しまれている。
Poems from the Manyoshu are still loved by many today.
Literary context.
彼は誰に対しても親しみを持って接する。
He treats everyone with a sense of friendliness.
Using 'shitashimi o motte'.
古典文学に親しむことで、歴史への理解が深まる。
By becoming familiar with classical literature, your understanding of history deepens.
Conditional 'de' indicating means.
そのブランドは、庶民的な価格で親しまれている。
The brand is popular for its affordable prices.
Passive usage in business context.
彼は孤独を愛し、本の世界に親しんだ。
He loved solitude and made himself at home in the world of books.
Abstract usage of 'shitashimu'.
この制度が国民に親しまれるまでには時間がかかるだろう。
It will likely take time until this system becomes familiar to the citizens.
Future conjecture with 'darou'.
伝統芸能に親しむ若者が増えているという。
It is said that the number of young people familiarizing themselves with traditional performing arts is increasing.
Reporting information with 'to iu'.
彼は周囲の人々と親しむのが得意ではない。
He is not good at becoming close with the people around him.
Nominalized verb phrase.
名画に親しむ贅沢な時間を過ごした。
I spent a luxurious time familiarizing myself with famous paintings.
Descriptive prose.
その土地の言葉に親しむことが、移住の第一歩だ。
Getting familiar with the local language is the first step of immigration.
Stating a principle.
思索に親しむ静謐なひとときを持つ。
To have a quiet moment familiarizing oneself with deep thought/meditation.
Highly literary vocabulary (shisaku, seihitsu).
彼は幼少期から異文化に親しみ、多角的な視点を養った。
Having been exposed to different cultures since childhood, he developed a multifaceted perspective.
Causal relationship in formal biography.
その詩人は自然の営みに親しみ、独自の宇宙観を築いた。
The poet became intimate with the workings of nature and built a unique worldview.
Abstract philosophical usage.
法律という硬い言葉を、いかに市民に親しめるものにするか。
How to make the rigid language of law something that citizens can feel close to.
Potential form 'shitashimeru'.
彼は古今東西の哲学に親しみ、博覧強記で知られていた。
He was familiar with philosophies of all times and places and was known for his vast knowledge.
Set phrase 'kokon-touzai'.
近代化の過程で、我々は土に親しむ生活を忘れてしまった。
In the process of modernization, we have forgotten the lifestyle of being close to the earth.
Sociological critique.
その建築家は、光と影に親しむ空間を設計した。
The architect designed a space that 'befriended' light and shadow.
Metaphorical usage in art/design.
宗教的な儀式に親しむことで、心の安寧を得る。
By becoming familiar with religious rituals, one gains peace of mind.
Spiritual context.
万象に親しむその境地は、容易に到達できるものではない。
That state of being intimate with all things in the universe is not easily reached.
Philosophical 'kyouchi' (state/realm).
彼は死の淵にありながらも、運命に親しむかのような泰然自若とした態度を崩さなかった。
Even on the brink of death, he maintained a composed attitude as if he had become familiar with his fate.
Advanced idioms (shino-fuchi, taizen-jijaku).
古典の神髄に親しむには、単なる知識以上の感性が必要だ。
To become intimate with the essence of the classics, a sensitivity beyond mere knowledge is required.
Abstract 'shinzui' (essence).
言語の深淵に親しむほど、その表現の限界を痛感する。
The more one becomes familiar with the abyss of language, the more one feels the limits of expression.
Conditional '...hodo' with abstract nouns.
彼は権力の中枢にありながら、常に孤独に親しんでいた。
While in the center of power, he was always intimate with solitude.
Paradoxical usage.
その作品は、不条理に親しむ現代人の心理を鋭く突いている。
The work sharply strikes at the psychology of modern people who have become familiar with the absurd.
Literary criticism.
自然の脅威に親しむという逆説的な共存の形。
A paradoxical form of coexistence: becoming familiar with the threats of nature.
Complex noun phrase.
彼は数式に親しむことで、宇宙の真理を垣間見ようとした。
By becoming intimate with mathematical formulas, he sought to glimpse the truths of the universe.
Scientific/Philosophical intersection.
Sinónimos
Antónimos
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— Something you are very used to and fond of. Often used for places or tools.
慣れ親しんだペンで書く。
— To begin to feel a sense of closeness or familiarity.
彼の素朴な人柄に親しみを覚えた。
— To be well-known and loved in the capacity of something.
彼は名司会者として親しまれている。
— Approachability is the main selling point.
この店の親しみやすさが売りです。
— An opportunity to get to know or enjoy something.
伝統文化に親しむ機会を作る。
— A familiar and comforting voice.
ラジオから親しみのある声が聞こえる。
— To be as close as family members.
隣の家の人とは家族のように親しんでいる。
— The habit of reading and enjoying books.
幼少期に本に親しむ習慣を身につける。
— A feeling of closeness starts to emerge spontaneously.
共通の趣味があると親しみがわく。
— To interact with someone in a friendly, warm manner.
患者さんに親しみを持って接する看護師。
Se confunde a menudo con
This is an adjective meaning 'close'. 'Shitashimu' is the verb meaning 'to become/be close'.
Sounds similar but means to practice a refined art with discipline/etiquette.
Means 'to enjoy'. 'Shitashimu' implies a deeper, more habitual bond.
Modismos y expresiones
— To enjoy swimming or being near water. Often used for children learning to swim.
夏休みはプールで水に親しむ。
Neutral— To become familiar with or practice a traditional art form.
幼い頃から長唄の芸に親しむ。
Formal/Artistic— To engage in farming or gardening; to be close to the earth.
定年後は田舎で土に親しむ生活をしたい。
Neutral— To enjoy writing or calligraphy.
秋の夜長に筆に親しむ。
Literary— To spend quality time deepening a friendship.
美酒を酌み交わし、友と親しむ。
Literary— To be in harmony with all things in nature/the universe.
詩人は万象に親しむ心を持っていた。
Philosophical— To enjoy the company of an old friend after a long time.
同窓会で旧交を親しむ。
Formal— To be an avid reader or calligrapher.
彼は生涯、書に親しんだ。
Formal/Literary— To enjoy flowers or flower arrangement.
四季折々の花に親しむ暮らし。
Neutral/Poetic— To be comfortable with and even enjoy being alone.
彼は孤独に親しむ術を知っている。
Psychological/LiteraryFácil de confundir
Both mean 'to get used to'.
'Nareru' is neutral/functional (getting used to a cold room). 'Shitashimu' is emotional/affectionate (becoming fond of a park).
新しい靴に慣れる (Get used to new shoes). 自然に親しむ (Enjoy/be close to nature).
Both involve fitting in.
'Najimu' is about blending in or becoming harmonious with a surroundings. 'Shitashimu' is about building a personal bond.
新しいクラスに馴染む (Blend into the new class). クラスメートと親しむ (Become close with classmates).
Both involve interaction.
'Fure-au' emphasizes the act of contact or communication. 'Shitashimu' emphasizes the resulting state of intimacy.
動物と触れ合う (Interact with animals). 動物に親しむ (Be fond of/close to animals).
Both are used for hobbies.
'Aikō-suru' is a formal 'hobbyist' term. 'Shitashimu' is a warmer, more general term for daily enjoyment.
切手を愛好する (To be a stamp collector). 読書に親しむ (To enjoy reading).
Both mean close/intimate.
'Mutsumajii' is an adjective usually describing a harmonious relationship between a couple or family (e.g., Nakayoshi).
仲睦まじい夫婦 (A harmonious/close couple).
Patrones de oraciones
[Noun] に 親しむ
自然に親しむ。
[Person] に 親しまれる
彼はみんなに親しまれている。
慣れ親しんだ [Noun]
慣れ親しんだ道具。
親しみを感じる
彼に親しみを感じる。
親しみを込めて [Verb]
親しみを込めて話す。
[Noun] に 親しむ機会
芸術に親しむ機会。
[Abstract Noun] に 親しむ
孤独に親しむ。
[Complex Concept] に 親しむ
万象に親しむ。
Familia de palabras
Sustantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
Very high in educational, cultural, and community contexts.
-
音楽を親しむ
→
音楽に親しむ
Shitashimu is intransitive and requires the 'ni' particle for its object.
-
仕事に親しむ
→
仕事に慣れる
Use 'nareru' for getting used to tasks or routines. 'Shitashimu' implies affection.
-
彼は親しむ人だ
→
彼は親しみやすい人だ
You need the adjective form '-yasui' to describe a person's character as approachable.
-
親しむ友達
→
親しい友達
Use the i-adjective 'shitashii' to modify a noun directly for 'close friend'.
-
昨日、パーティーを親しんだ
→
昨日、パーティーを楽しんだ
Shitashimu is for long-term bonds, not one-time events like a party.
Consejos
Particle Choice
Always use 'ni' for objects like hobbies and 'to' or 'ni' for people. Never use 'o'!
Passive Power
Use 'shitashimarete iru' to describe why a local shop or celebrity is popular. It sounds very native.
Heart Connection
Remember that 'shitashimu' implies you actually like the thing. If you just 'know' it but hate it, don't use this word.
Approachability
Describe yourself as 'shitashimi-yasui' in interviews to sound like a team player.
Kanji Clue
When you see 親, think 'Close/Parent'. It will always help you guess the meaning of related words.
Compound Verbs
Learn 'nare-shitashimu'. It's a beautiful way to describe things that feel like home.
Nature Bond
Use 'Shizen ni shitashimu' when talking about your hiking or camping trips to sound more culturally attuned.
Literary Flair
In essays, use 'shitashimu' to show a deep intellectual engagement with a subject.
Nickname Alert
When you hear '...to yobare shitashimarete iru', the next word is almost always a nickname.
The 'Shin' Connection
Connect 'Shitashimu' to 'Shin-setsu' (Kind). Kind people are easy to 'Shitashimu'.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Think of 'SHITA' (under) and 'SHI' (friend). When you are 'under' the same roof with a 'friend', you become 'shitashimu' (familiar/intimate).
Asociación visual
Imagine a person sitting under a large tree (親) reading a book they love. They are 'shitashimu' the book and the nature around them.
Word Web
Desafío
Try to use 'shitashimu' in a sentence about your favorite hobby today. Make sure to use the particle 'ni'!
Origen de la palabra
The word comes from the Old Japanese 'shitashimu'. The root 'shita' is related to 'under' or 'inner', suggesting something that is close to one's inner self or 'under' one's care.
Significado original: To be close, to be constant, or to be in a deep relationship.
Japonic.Contexto cultural
It is a very positive word. It is rarely used in negative contexts except to say that one *lacks* intimacy.
In English, we use 'familiarize' for technical things and 'get close' for people. 'Shitashimu' covers both with a much warmer tone.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Nature/Outdoors
- 自然に親しむ
- 土に親しむ
- 海に親しむ
- 森に親しむ
Hobbies/Culture
- 読書に親しむ
- 音楽に親しむ
- 芸術に親しむ
- 古典に親しむ
Social/People
- 住民と親しむ
- 子供に親しまれる
- 愛称で親しまれる
- 親しみやすい人
Education
- 本に親しむ習慣
- 科学に親しむ
- 異文化に親しむ
- 言葉に親しむ
Business/Design
- 親しみやすさを出す
- ユーザーに親しまれる
- 親しみのあるブランド
- 親しみを感じるデザイン
Inicios de conversación
"最近、何か新しい趣味に親しんでいますか? (Have you been getting into any new hobbies lately?)"
"子供の頃、どんな本に親しんでいましたか? (What kind of books were you familiar with as a child?)"
"この町で一番親しまれている場所はどこですか? (Where is the most loved place in this town?)"
"自然に親しむために、週末は何をしますか? (What do you do on weekends to get close to nature?)"
"親しみやすい人になるには、どうすればいいと思いますか? (What do you think one should do to become an approachable person?)"
Temas para diario
あなたが一番「慣れ親しんだ」場所について書いてください。 (Write about the place you are most familiar and comfortable with.)
最近、新しく親しみを感じ始めたものについて教えてください。 (Tell me about something you've recently started feeling a sense of familiarity with.)
「自然に親しむ」ことは、現代人にとってなぜ大切だと思いますか? (Why do you think 'being close to nature' is important for modern people?)
あなたが尊敬する「親しまれている人」は誰ですか?その理由は? (Who is a 'well-loved person' you respect? Why?)
日本の文化の中で、特に親しみたいと思っているものは何ですか? (What part of Japanese culture do you particularly want to become familiar with?)
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasUsually, no. 'Shitashimu' implies a process of becoming familiar over time. If you just met and hit it off, 'ki ga au' (to get along) or 'nakayoku naru' is better. However, you can say you felt 'shitashimi' (familiarity) toward them immediately.
Not primarily. It describes platonic intimacy, friendliness, or a bond with nature/hobbies. For romantic love, 'aisuru' or 'koisuru' are used. 'Shitashimu' with a partner would suggest you are 'best friends' as well as lovers.
'Tanoshimu' is 'to enjoy' and can be a one-time event (enjoying a movie). 'Shitashimu' is about a relationship and usually implies multiple interactions (being familiar with an author's work).
In Japanese grammar, 'shitashimu' is an intransitive verb. You don't 'act upon' the object; rather, you 'move toward' a state of closeness with it. The 'ni' particle indicates that direction or target.
No, that's a common mistake. It should be 'Nihongo ni shitashimu'. It means you are making the Japanese language a familiar and dear part of your life.
It's neutral-polite. You'll hear it on the news, in documentaries, and in casual conversation. It's a very standard way to say something is popular or well-loved.
Use it when you want to emphasize a long history with something. For example, your childhood home, a tool you've used for 10 years, or a city you've lived in for a long time.
Yes, almost always. It means someone is approachable and friendly. In design, it means a product is intuitive and not intimidating.
Rarely. It's an inherently positive word. You wouldn't say you 'shitashimu' a disease or a war, unless you were being very poetic or ironic about 'becoming familiar with pain'.
You could say 'Anata to motto shitashimitai desu,' but this is quite literary. In daily life, 'Motto nakayoku naritai desu' is much more common.
Ponte a prueba 190 preguntas
Translate to Japanese: 'I want to get familiar with Japanese culture.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'He is loved by many people.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'Since I was a child, I have enjoyed music.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'This teacher is very approachable.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'I feel a sense of familiarity with this town.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Let's get close to nature.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'It takes time to get familiar with classical books.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'He is known by the nickname "Ken-chan".'
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Translate to Japanese: 'I am used to this old tool.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'I want to provide an opportunity to enjoy art.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'She treats everyone with friendliness.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'This design has a sense of familiarity.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'I enjoy reading on weekends.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Let's become familiar with the local culture.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'He is not good at becoming close with others.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'I spent time enjoying the sea.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'The brand is popular among citizens.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'I want to become familiar with various philosophies.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'He is a very friendly person.'
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Translate to Japanese: 'I am familiar with the history of this village.'
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Describe a hobby you have 'shitashinde' (been familiar with) for a long time.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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What is something 'shitashimi-yasui' in your town?
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Dijiste:
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Why is 'shizen ni shitashimu' important?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Who is a person you find 'shitashimi-yasui'?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Talk about a book you are 'nare-shitashinde' with.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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How do you 'shitashimu' nature in the winter?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Is there a nickname you are 'shitashimarete iru' by?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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What kind of music do you 'shitashimu' daily?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Explain the meaning of 'shitashimu' in your own words.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Describe a 'shitashimi-yasui' design you like.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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How can a teacher become more 'shitashimi-yasui'?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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What culture would you like to 'shitashimu' next?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Talk about a famous person who is 'shitashimarete iru' in your country.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Do you prefer to 'shitashimu' one thing deeply or many things lightly?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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How do you show 'shitashimi' when meeting someone new?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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What is the best way to 'shitashimu' Japanese literature?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Describe your 'nare-shitashinda' hometown.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Why do people feel 'shitashimi' toward characters like Totoro?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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How does 'shitashimu' differ from 'suki'?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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What is your favorite way to 'shitashimu' the sea?
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
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Listen to the sentence: '彼は子供たちに親しまれています。' Who loves him?
Listen to the sentence: '自然に親しむ時間は大切です。' What is important?
Listen to the sentence: '親しみやすい笑顔が素敵ですね。' What is nice about the person?
Listen to the sentence: '読書に親しむ習慣をつけたい。' What habit does the speaker want?
Listen to the sentence: '彼はニックネームで親しまれている。' How is he known?
Listen to the sentence: '慣れ親しんだ街を離れる。' Is the speaker leaving a new place or an old place?
Listen to the sentence: 'もっと芸術に親しんでほしい。' What does the speaker want the listener to do?
Listen to the sentence: 'このデザインは親しみがある。' Does the design feel foreign or familiar?
Listen to the sentence: '彼は孤独に親しむ詩人だ。' Does the poet hate being alone?
Listen to the sentence: '親しみを込めて挨拶した。' How did the person greet?
Listen to the sentence: '万葉集は今も親しまれている。' Is the Manyoshu forgotten?
Listen to the sentence: '水に親しむ子供たち。' Where are the children likely to be?
Listen to the sentence: '親しみを感じる人。' Does the speaker feel comfortable or nervous?
Listen to the sentence: '日本の文化に親しむ。' What is the object?
Listen to the sentence: '親しみやすさが売りです。' What is the selling point?
/ 190 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
親しむ (shitashimu) is more than just 'getting used to' something; it is the process of building a warm, personal connection. Whether it's a person, a book, or a forest, using this verb shows that you have made that thing a dear part of your life. Example: 読書に親しむ (To enjoy/be familiar with reading).
- A verb meaning to become intimate or familiar with something or someone.
- Commonly used for hobbies, nature, and developing platonic friendships.
- Always uses the particle 'ni' for the object (e.g., Nature ni shitashimu).
- Carries a warm, affectionate nuance of long-term companionship and ease.
Particle Choice
Always use 'ni' for objects like hobbies and 'to' or 'ni' for people. Never use 'o'!
Passive Power
Use 'shitashimarete iru' to describe why a local shop or celebrity is popular. It sounds very native.
Heart Connection
Remember that 'shitashimu' implies you actually like the thing. If you just 'know' it but hate it, don't use this word.
Approachability
Describe yourself as 'shitashimi-yasui' in interviews to sound like a team player.
Ejemplo
新しい環境に早く親しめるように頑張る。
Contenido relacionado
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還暦
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〜くらい
B1Esta palabra significa 'aproximadamente' o 'hasta el punto de'. Se usa para expresar una aproximación o un grado.
認め合う
B1Reconocerse mutuamente; admitir el valor del otro.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
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甘える
B1Ser mimado, adular; comportarse como un niño consentido confiando en la amabilidad e indulgencia de otros, a menudo en relaciones cercanas.
活発な
B1Activo; animado; vigoroso. 'Un niño muy activo.' (とても活発な子) 'Un intercambio de ideas animado.' (活発な意見交換)
思春期
B1La adolescencia; el período de transición entre la infancia y la edad adulta.
養子
B1Un hijo adoptivo que legalmente se integra en una familia no biológica.
養親
B2Padre o madre adoptivo/a. Una persona que asume legalmente la paternidad de un hijo no biológico.