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A2 adverb #700 le plus courant 14 min de lecture

周りに

mawari ni Top 700

At the A1 level, 'mawari ni' is introduced as a basic way to describe where things are. Learners focus on the physical meaning: 'around' a central object. The grammar is simple: [Noun] + no + mawari ni + [Object] + ga arimasu. For example, 'Tsukue no mawari ni isu ga arimasu' (There are chairs around the desk). The goal is to help students visualize a center point and things located in a circle or area around it. It's often taught alongside other basic prepositions like 'ue' (on), 'shita' (under), and 'naka' (inside). At this stage, we avoid complex social or abstract meanings and stick to tangible objects like furniture, buildings, or family members standing in a group. The focus is on building the spatial vocabulary necessary for basic descriptions of a room or a simple scene in a picture. Students learn that 'mawari' is a noun and 'ni' is the location particle they've already used with 'imasu' and 'arimasu.' This provides a consistent grammatical foundation.

At the A2 level, students begin to use 'mawari ni' to describe social environments and more dynamic situations. They move beyond simple existence ('there is') to actions ('people gathered'). A common context is talking about one's daily life and the people in it: 'Watashi no mawari ni wa yasashii hito ga ooi desu' (There are many kind people around me). This introduces the idea that 'mawari' can refer to a social circle, not just physical space. Students also learn to use 'mawari ni' with verbs like 'atsumaru' (to gather) or 'suwaru' (to sit). They start to distinguish between 'mawari ni' (location) and 'mawari o' (path of movement), such as 'kouen no mawari o sanpo suru' (take a walk around the park). The A2 learner should be able to describe their neighborhood or office using this phrase, incorporating both physical landmarks and the people present. They also begin to see it in public signs or simple announcements, like 'mawari ni chuui' (watch your surroundings).

At the B1 level, 'mawari ni' is used in more complex sentences and abstract contexts. Learners start to use it to describe circumstances and influences. For example, 'Kare no mawari de wa itsumo toraburu ga okiru' (Troubles always happen around him). This usage implies a sphere of influence rather than just physical proximity. B1 students also encounter the word in more formal settings, such as news reports or workplace discussions. They learn to use it with abstract nouns: 'mondai no mawari ni wa fukuzatsu na jijou ga aru' (there are complex circumstances surrounding the problem). The distinction between 'mawari' and its more formal counterpart 'shuui' becomes clearer, and students are expected to choose the appropriate register. They also learn common idiomatic expressions like 'mawari ni ki o tsukau' (to be considerate of others) and 'mawari o ki ni suru' (to worry about what others think). This level focuses on the social and psychological implications of the word within Japanese culture.

At the B2 level, learners use 'mawari ni' with a high degree of naturalness and nuance. They can discuss complex social dynamics, such as the pressure to conform to those around them ('mawari ni awaseru'). They understand the subtle difference between 'mawari' and 'atari' in various contexts and can use them interchangeably when appropriate for the desired nuance. B2 students are also exposed to more literary and metaphorical uses of the word. For instance, describing the 'aura' or 'atmosphere' surrounding a person or an artwork. They can handle complex sentence structures where 'mawari ni' is part of a larger descriptive clause: 'Kyuu na henka no mawari ni uzumaku fuan' (The anxiety swirling around the sudden change). At this level, the focus is on the precision of expression and the ability to use 'mawari ni' to convey not just location, but also mood, influence, and social context in both spoken and written Japanese.

At the C1 level, 'mawari ni' is used with sophisticated precision in academic, professional, and literary contexts. Learners can analyze the 'mawari' of a concept—the historical, social, and cultural factors that surround and define it. They use the word to describe intricate relationships in literature or complex socio-political situations. For example, discussing the 'mawari no joukyou' (surrounding circumstances) in a historical analysis of a political revolution. C1 learners are also adept at using the word in persuasive speech, highlighting how an individual's actions affect the 'mawari' (the people and environment around them). They understand the philosophical implications of 'mawari' in Japanese thought, such as the blurred boundary between the self and the surroundings. Their usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker, incorporating rare collocations and nuanced metaphorical extensions that reflect a deep cultural and linguistic immersion.

At the C2 level, the learner has a masterly command of 'mawari ni,' using it to convey the most subtle shades of meaning. They can use it in high-level creative writing to create atmosphere or in philosophical discourse to discuss the nature of existence and environment. The word becomes a tool for exploring the 'interconnectedness' of things. They might use it to describe the 'mawari' of a scientific phenomenon or the 'mawari' of a complex legal case with absolute clarity and stylistic flair. A C2 learner can also play with the word, using it in puns or sophisticated rhetorical devices. They have a complete understanding of its historical evolution and its relationship to similar terms in other languages, allowing them to translate or interpret it with perfect accuracy. At this level, 'mawari ni' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile instrument for expressing the highest levels of thought and emotion in the Japanese language.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

周りに en 30 secondes

Means 'around' or 'surrounding' a specific point or person.
Commonly used in the pattern [Noun] + no + mawari ni.
Can refer to physical space, social circles, or abstract situations.
Essential for describing environments and maintaining social harmony.

The Japanese word 周りに (mawari ni) is a fundamental spatial and relational adverbial phrase that every Japanese learner must master. At its core, it refers to the area surrounding a specific point, object, or person. It is composed of the noun mawari (周り), meaning 'surroundings' or 'circumference,' and the particle ni (に), which marks location or direction. In English, we most commonly translate this as 'around,' 'surrounding,' or 'in the vicinity of.' However, its usage extends far beyond simple physical geography. It is frequently used to describe social circles, environmental conditions, and even abstract influences that exist in one's immediate sphere of existence.

Physical Proximity: This is the most literal use. If you are standing in a field and there are flowers in every direction, you would say they are in your 'mawari.' It implies a 360-degree radius or at least multiple points surrounding a center.
Social Context: In Japanese culture, the concept of the 'self' is often defined by those around them. 'Mawari no hito' refers to the people in one's life—colleagues, friends, and family. Using 'mawari ni' in this context often implies social pressure or the atmosphere created by others.

私の周りには、いつも優しい友達がいます。
(There are always kind friends around me.)

When people use this word, they are often setting a scene. It is a 'spatial anchor.' In a narrative, 'mawari ni' helps the listener visualize the environment. If a character is lost in a forest, the author will describe what is 'mawari ni'—the trees, the darkness, the sounds. In a business setting, a manager might talk about the 'mawari no joukyou' (the surrounding situation/circumstances) to explain why a certain decision was made. It is a versatile tool that bridges the gap between the concrete and the abstract.

駅の周りには、たくさんのレストランがあります。
(There are many restaurants around the station.)

Atmospheric Usage: It can describe the 'vibe' or 'mood' surrounding a person. If someone is very popular, you might say 'mawari ga nigiyaka' (it's lively around them).

Furthermore, 'mawari ni' is essential for describing safety and awareness. In Japanese safety slogans, you often hear 'mawari o yoku mite' (look around you carefully). This emphasizes the importance of situational awareness in a crowded society. Whether you are navigating a busy intersection in Shibuya or trying to understand the social dynamics of a Japanese office, 'mawari ni' is the keyword that directs your attention to the context rather than just the individual.

火の周りに集まって、歌を歌いました。
(We gathered around the fire and sang songs.)

池の周りには、美しい花が咲いています。
(Beautiful flowers are blooming around the pond.)

Comparison with 'Chikaku': While 'chikaku' means 'near,' 'mawari' implies a surrounding relationship. 'Chikaku' could be just one point nearby, but 'mawari' suggests an encircling or encompassing presence.

In summary, 'mawari ni' is a versatile and essential phrase for describing the world around you. It covers physical space, social environments, and situational contexts. By understanding 'mawari ni,' you gain a deeper insight into how Japanese speakers perceive their relationship with their environment—not as isolated entities, but as parts of a larger, surrounding whole. Whether you are describing a garden, a crowd, or a feeling, this phrase provides the necessary spatial context to make your Japanese sound natural and descriptive.

自分の周りに何があるか、確認してください。
(Please check what is around you.)

Using 周りに (mawari ni) correctly requires understanding its grammatical structure and the nuances of the particle 'ni.' The most common pattern is [Noun] + の + 周りに. This 'no' particle acts as a possessive or relational link, indicating that the 'surroundings' belong to the specified noun. For example, 'ie no mawari' means 'the surroundings of the house.' When you add 'ni,' you are specifying that something exists or an action is happening within those surroundings.

Existence (Arimasu/Imasu): The most basic sentence structure is '[Noun] no mawari ni [Subject] ga arimasu/imasu.' This simply states that something is located around something else. 'Tsukue no mawari ni isu ga arimasu' (There are chairs around the desk).

学校の周りには、緑がたくさんあります。
(There is a lot of greenery around the school.)

Another important usage is with verbs of motion or action. When you use 'mawari ni' with a verb like 'atsumaru' (to gather), it indicates the destination or the area where the action takes place. 'Kouen no mawari ni hito ga atsumatta' (People gathered around the park). Here, 'ni' marks the target area of the gathering. It is important to distinguish this from 'mawari o,' which would be used with verbs of movement like 'hashiru' (to run) to mean 'running around (the perimeter of)' something.

先生の周りに学生たちが集まりました。
(The students gathered around the teacher.)

Social Influence: When used with people, 'mawari ni' often describes the social environment. 'Kare no mawari ni wa ii hito ga ooi' (There are many good people around him). This implies that his social circle is positive.

In more advanced contexts, 'mawari ni' can be used to describe the context of an event. For instance, 'jiken no mawari ni wa nazo ga ooi' (there are many mysteries surrounding the incident). While 'shuui' (周囲) is more formal and often used in writing, 'mawari ni' is the go-to expression for daily conversation and general descriptions. It feels more personal and immediate. When you want to emphasize that something is happening in the immediate vicinity, 'sugu mawari ni' (right around) is a common intensification.

自分の周りに壁を作らないでください。
(Please don't build walls around yourself.)

都会の周りには、郊外が広がっています。
(Suburbs spread out around the city.)

Adverbial Use: Sometimes 'mawari ni' functions as a standalone adverb meaning 'in the surroundings' without a specific noun. 'Mawari ni wa dare mo inakatta' (There was no one around).

Finally, consider the negative usage. 'Mawari ni ki o tsukau' means to be considerate of those around you. Conversely, 'mawari o ki ni shinai' means not caring about what others think or what is happening around you. These phrases are crucial for navigating Japanese social etiquette. By mastering 'mawari ni,' you are not just learning a spatial term; you are learning how to position yourself and others within the complex web of Japanese social and physical space.

キャンプファイヤーの周りに座りましょう。
(Let's sit around the campfire.)

You will encounter 周りに (mawari ni) in almost every facet of Japanese life. From the moment you step onto a train to a quiet dinner with friends, this word is constantly shaping the narrative of the environment. In public spaces, announcements often use it to ensure safety and order. On the train, you might hear 'Mawari no o-kyaku-sama no meiwaku ni naranai you...' (So as not to be a nuisance to the passengers around you...). This is a classic example of how 'mawari' is used to maintain social harmony (wa).

In Public Announcements: Stations and malls use it to remind people to be aware of their surroundings. 'Mawari no anzen o kakunin shite kudasai' (Please confirm the safety of your surroundings) is a common phrase near escalators or platform edges.

歩きスマホは、周りに迷惑です。
(Using your phone while walking is a nuisance to those around you.)

In casual conversation, 'mawari' is the standard way to talk about one's social circle. If you ask a friend how their new job is going, they might say, 'Mawari no hito ga yasashii kara, tasukaru yo' (The people around me are kind, so it helps). Here, 'mawari' is a warm, inclusive term for colleagues. It’s less clinical than 'douryou' (colleagues) and encompasses the whole office atmosphere. You’ll also hear it in weather reports or news when describing the area affected by a storm or an event: 'Taifu no mawari de wa tsuyoi kaze ga fuite imasu' (Strong winds are blowing around the typhoon).

私の周りには、面白い人がたくさんいます。
(There are many interesting people around me.)

In Anime and Manga: Characters often use 'mawari' to describe a feeling of being watched or the presence of enemies. 'Mawari ni teki ga iru!' (There are enemies around!). It adds a sense of 360-degree tension.

In the world of sports, coaches will tell players to 'mawari o miru' (look around) to find open teammates. In cooking shows, you might hear 'nabe no mawari ni akari ga tsuitara...' (when the area around the pot gets hot...). Even in literature, 'mawari' is used to paint a vivid picture of a setting. It’s a word that bridges the gap between the mundane and the dramatic. Whether it’s the 'mawari' of a crime scene in a detective novel or the 'mawari' of a beautiful cherry blossom tree in a poem, the word provides the essential spatial context that Japanese listeners rely on to build a mental image.

スカイツリーの周りには、高い建物が少ないです。
(There are few tall buildings around the Skytree.)

公園の周りには、ジョギングコースがあります。
(There is a jogging course around the park.)

In Business Meetings: It is used to discuss market conditions or the competitive landscape. 'Kyougou no mawari no ugoki' (The movements around our competitors).

Ultimately, 'mawari ni' is a word of awareness. It reflects the Japanese cultural emphasis on the collective and the environment. By hearing and using this word, you are participating in a way of seeing the world that prioritizes the context as much as the individual. It’s a small phrase with a huge impact on how you describe and understand the Japanese world.

彼の周りには、いつも笑顔が絶えません。
(There is always laughter around him.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with 周りに (mawari ni) is confusing it with other spatial terms like chikaku ni (nearby) or atari ni (in the area). While they all deal with proximity, the nuance is distinct. 'Chikaku ni' simply means something is close by, like a point on a map. 'Mawari ni' implies a surrounding relationship. If you say 'Ginkou no chikaku ni kouen ga arimasu,' the park is just near the bank. If you say 'Ginkou no mawari ni kouen ga arimasu,' it sounds like the park is encircling the bank, which might be physically impossible!

Confusing 'Ni' and 'O': As mentioned before, 'mawari ni' is for location/existence. 'Mawari o' is for movement. Saying 'Kouen no mawari ni hashiru' is a common error; it should be 'Kouen no mawari o hashiru' (Run around the park).

❌ 公園の周りに走ります。
(Incorrect: I run 'at' the surroundings of the park.)

Another mistake is using 'mawari ni' when you actually mean 'about' in a topical sense. In English, we say 'I'm thinking around this topic,' but in Japanese, you must use 'nitsuite' or 'ni kanshite.' Using 'mawari ni' for topics sounds like you are physically circling a piece of paper with the topic written on it. Additionally, learners often forget the 'no' particle. 'Ie mawari ni' is grammatically incomplete; it must be 'Ie no mawari ni.' The 'no' is the glue that connects the center point to its surroundings.

❌ 100人の周りに来ました。
(Incorrect: Came to the surroundings of 100 people - meant 'about 100 people'.)

Overusing 'Mawari' for 'Environment': While 'mawari' can mean environment, for ecological or large-scale environments, 'kankyou' (環境) is more appropriate. 'Mawari' is for your immediate, personal surroundings.

Lastly, be careful with the word 'atari.' 'Kono atari' means 'this general area,' whereas 'kono mawari' means 'the area immediately surrounding this specific spot.' If you are looking for a bathroom in a station, 'kono atari' is better because you are looking in the general vicinity. If you are looking for the trash can right next to the ticket gate, 'kaisatsuguchi no mawari' is more precise. Understanding these subtle boundaries will help you avoid sounding vague or confusing to native speakers.

❌ この周りにトイレはありますか？
(Slightly odd: Is there a toilet 'surrounding' this spot? Use 'atari' instead.)

机の周りにゴミを捨てないでください。
(Please don't throw trash around the desk.)

Mixing up 'Mawari' and 'Shuui': 'Shuui' is the kanji version (周囲). It is used in formal reports or geometry. Using 'shuui' in a casual chat about your friends sounds like you're reading a textbook.

By keeping these distinctions in mind—especially the 'ni' vs 'o' particle usage and the difference between 'mawari' and 'atari'—you will be able to use 'mawari ni' with the precision of a native speaker. Remember that 'mawari' always implies a relationship to a center point, whether that center is a physical object, a person, or an event.

家の周りには、静かな住宅街があります。
(There is a quiet residential area around the house.)

To truly master 周りに (mawari ni), it helps to see it in the context of its synonyms and related terms. Japanese has a rich vocabulary for spatial relationships, and choosing the right one depends on formality, scale, and specific nuance. While 'mawari ni' is the most common and versatile, other words can offer more precision in specific situations.

周囲 (Shuui): This is the Sino-Japanese (on-yomi) equivalent. It is much more formal and is used in technical, academic, or official contexts. You'll see it in news reports ('shuui no joukyou') or math problems ('shuui no nagasa' - the length of the perimeter).
辺り (Atari): Meaning 'vicinity' or 'general area.' It lacks the 'encircling' nuance of 'mawari.' If you are looking for a shop 'somewhere near here,' you use 'atari.' It is less precise than 'mawari.'
付近 (Fukin): Similar to 'atari' but slightly more formal. Often used in directions or GPS navigation. 'Eki fukin' means the area near the station.

学校の周囲には、高い塀があります。
(Formal: There is a high wall around the perimeter of the school.)

Another interesting alternative is midika ni (身近に), which literally means 'near the body.' It is used for things that are close to you personally or familiar to you. While 'mawari ni' is spatial, 'midika ni' is emotional or experiential. For example, 'midika na mondai' is a problem that affects you personally. If you want to describe something that is physically very close, you might use soba ni (そばに). 'Soba' implies being right next to something, often with a sense of intimacy or support.

この辺りに、コンビニはありますか？
(Is there a convenience store in this general area?)

近所 (Kinjo): Specifically refers to one's neighborhood. You wouldn't say 'my desk's kinjo,' but you would say 'my house's kinjo.' 'Mawari' is much broader.

In literary contexts, you might see gururi to (ぐるりと), which emphasizes the action of looking or being all the way around. It has a more descriptive, almost onomatopoeic feel. For instance, 'gururi to miwatasu' means to take a full 360-degree look at one's surroundings. Understanding these alternatives allows you to fine-tune your Japanese. Use 'mawari ni' for your everyday 'around,' but reach for 'shuui' when writing a report, 'atari' when you're a bit lost, and 'midika' when something feels personal. This level of nuance is what separates a beginner from an intermediate speaker.

自然を身近に感じることができます。
(You can feel nature close to you / familiar to you.)

駅の付近で待ち合わせしましょう。
(Let's meet up in the vicinity of the station.)

四方 (Shihou): Literally 'four directions.' Used to emphasize that something is happening on all sides. 'Shihou o yama ni kakomarete iru' (Surrounded on all sides by mountains).

By exploring these synonyms, you can see that 'mawari ni' sits at the center of a large web of spatial vocabulary. It is the foundation upon which more specific and formal terms are built. Whether you are describing the people in your life or the trees in a park, 'mawari ni' provides the essential framework for understanding and communicating the concept of 'surroundings' in Japanese.

家の周りを掃除しました。
(I cleaned around the house - Note the use of 'o' for the area of action.)

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"会場の周囲には、警備員が配置されています。"

Neutre

"駅の周りには、美味しいお店が多いです。"

Informel

"周りに誰もいないから、大丈夫だよ。"

Child friendly

"おててをつないで、みんなでまるい輪の周りに集まろう！"

Argot

"あいつ、周り見えてなさすぎでしょ。"

Le savais-tu ?

The kanji '周' is also used in the word 'shuu' (week) in some contexts, implying a cycle that goes around and starts again. In ancient times, 'mawari' was often used to describe the boundaries of a village or a sacred space.

Guide de prononciation

UK /məˈwaːri ni/

US /məˈwɑːri ni/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'mawari,' the pitch typically starts low on 'ma' and rises on 'wa,' then stays level or drops slightly.

Rime avec

Tonari (next door) Hikari (light) Inari (shrine/sushi) Omatsuri (festival) Yukkuri (slowly) Bakari (only) Kanari (fairly) Pishari (with a slam)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'r' in 'ri' like an English 'r' (curled tongue). It should be a light tap.
Elongating the 'i' in 'ni' too much. It should be clear but concise.
Stressing the wrong syllable. Japanese syllables generally have equal length.
Confusing 'mawari' with 'matsuri' (festival) due to similar sounds.
Forgetting the 'ni' particle when describing location.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The kanji '周' is taught in elementary school and is relatively easy to recognize.

Écriture 3/5

The kanji has several strokes but a logical structure.

Expression orale 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward, though the flap 'r' requires practice.

Écoute 2/5

Commonly heard in daily life and public announcements.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

近く (Chikaku) 隣 (Tonari) 中 (Naka) 外 (Soto) に (Particle)

Apprends ensuite

周囲 (Shuui) 辺り (Atari) 付近 (Fukin) 環境 (Kankyou) 状況 (Joukyou)

Avancé

身近 (Midika) 四方 (Shihou) 界隈 (Kaiwai) 近辺 (Kinpen) ぐるり (Gururi)

Grammaire à connaître

The 'No' Particle for Possession/Relation

私の周り (My surroundings)

The 'Ni' Particle for Static Location

周りに椅子がある (There is a chair around.)

The 'O' Particle for Movement Through Space

周りを歩く (Walk around.)

The 'Wa' Particle for Contrast/Topic

周りには何もない (As for the surroundings, there is nothing.)

Noun + No + Noun Structure

学校の周り (The surroundings of the school)

Exemples par niveau

テーブルの周りに椅子があります。

There are chairs around the table.

Uses the basic [Noun] + no + mawari ni + [Object] + ga arimasu pattern.

家の周りに木を植えました。

I planted trees around the house.

Shows an action (planting) happening in the area surrounding the house.

猫が私の周りにいます。

The cat is around me.

Uses 'imasu' for a living subject (cat) located around a person.

公園の周りに花が咲いています。

Flowers are blooming around the park.

Describes a state (blooming) in the surrounding area.

駅の周りに店がたくさんあります。

There are many shops around the station.

Common way to describe the facilities in a specific area.

お皿の周りにソースをかけます。

I will pour sauce around the plate.

Indicates the target area for an action (pouring).

池の周りに道があります。

There is a path around the pond.

Describes a physical feature (path) that surrounds another (pond).

お母さんの周りに子供たちがいます。

The children are around the mother.

Uses 'imasu' for people located around a central person.

私の周りには、いい友達がたくさんいます。

There are many good friends around me.

Introduces the social meaning of 'mawari' (social circle).

先生の周りに学生が集まりました。

Students gathered around the teacher.

Uses 'mawari ni' with the verb 'atsumaru' (to gather).

火の周りに座って、話をしました。

We sat around the fire and talked.

Describes a common social activity (sitting in a circle).

周りに人がいないか確認してください。

Please check if there is anyone around.

Uses 'mawari ni' as a standalone adverbial phrase for 'nearby area'.

学校の周りには、緑が多いです。

There is a lot of greenery around the school.

Uses 'wa' after 'ni' to emphasize the topic (the area around the school).

彼の周りはいつも賑やかです。

It is always lively around him.

Describes the 'atmosphere' or 'vibe' of a person's surroundings.

自分の周りの物を片付けましょう。

Let's tidy up the things around us.

Uses 'mawari no' as an adjective to describe objects.

スカイツリーの周りには高いビルがありません。

There are no tall buildings around the Skytree.

Uses a negative existence verb to describe the environment.

周りに迷惑をかけないようにしましょう。

Let's try not to cause trouble for those around us.

A key social phrase involving consideration for others.

彼は周りの意見をよく聞く人です。

He is a person who listens well to the opinions of those around him.

Refers to the collective opinions of a social group.

事件の周りには、まだ謎がたくさんあります。

There are still many mysteries surrounding the incident.

Abstract usage: 'surrounding' an event or situation.

都会の周りには、ベッドタウンが広がっています。

Commuter towns spread out around the city.

Describes urban planning and geographical layout.

周りの状況を考えて、判断してください。

Please make a judgment after considering the surrounding situation.

Uses 'mawari no joukyou' to mean 'context' or 'circumstances'.

彼女の周りには、いつも不思議なことが起こります。

Strange things always happen around her.

Describes a recurring phenomenon in someone's vicinity.

周りの期待に応えるのは大変です。

It is hard to meet the expectations of those around you.

Refers to social pressure and expectations.

キャンプ場の周りに柵を作りました。

We built a fence around the campsite.

Physical construction in a surrounding area.

彼は周りに流されやすい性格だ。

He has a personality that is easily influenced by those around him.

Idiomatic: 'nagasareru' (to be washed away/influenced) by the surroundings.

新しいビルの建設をめぐって、周りの住民が反対している。

The surrounding residents are opposing the construction of the new building.

Refers to a specific group of people (neighbors) in a social/legal context.

その政治家の周りには、常に記者が集まっている。

Reporters are always gathered around that politician.

Describes a constant state of being surrounded.

周りの環境が子供の成長に大きな影響を与える。

The surrounding environment has a great influence on a child's growth.

Discusses developmental psychology and environment.

自分の周りに壁を作って、他人を寄せ付けない。

Building walls around oneself and not letting others get close.

Metaphorical usage for emotional distance.

台風の周りでは、非常に強い風が吹いています。

Very strong winds are blowing around the typhoon.

Scientific/Meteorological description.

彼は周りの空気を読むのが得意だ。

He is good at reading the air (the mood) around him.

Refers to the 'kuuki' (air/atmosphere) of the surroundings.

この湖の周りには、珍しい植物が自生している。

Rare plants grow wild around this lake.

Botanical/Geographical description.

その作品の周りには、神聖な空気が漂っていた。

A sacred atmosphere drifted around that artwork.

Literary usage describing a metaphysical atmosphere.

改革を進めるには、まず周りの理解を得る必要がある。

To proceed with reforms, it is first necessary to gain the understanding of those around you.

Strategic/Professional usage regarding consensus building.

彼は自分の周りに起こるすべての出来事を、運命だと信じている。

He believes that everything that happens around him is destiny.

Philosophical usage regarding one's sphere of existence.

都市開発によって、駅の周りの景観が一変した。

Due to urban development, the landscape around the station has completely changed.

Discusses large-scale environmental and visual changes.

その研究の周りには、倫理的な議論が絶えない。

Ethical debates constantly surround that research.

Abstract usage regarding the discourse surrounding a topic.

周りの雑音を振り払って、自分の道を進む。

Shake off the noise around you and follow your own path.

Metaphorical: 'noise' as social distraction or criticism.

この伝統芸能の周りには、今も多くの支持者が集まっている。

Many supporters still gather around this traditional performing art.

Describes the community and support system of a cultural entity.

太陽の周りを惑星が公転している。

Planets revolve around the sun.

Scientific fact using 'mawari o' for orbital movement.

その思想の周りには、時代を超えた普遍性が存在する。

Around that thought, there exists a universality that transcends time.

Highly abstract/philosophical usage.

権力の周りには、常に野心家が群がるものだ。

Ambitious people always flock around power.

Cynical/Sociological observation using metaphorical 'surrounding'.

彼の沈黙の周りには、言葉以上の重みが感じられた。

Around his silence, a weight heavier than words was felt.

Poetic/Literary usage describing the 'weight' of an absence.

この法案の周りには、複雑な利害関係が絡み合っている。

Complex interests are intertwined around this bill.

Technical/Political usage regarding complex social structures.

真実の周りには、常に幾層もの嘘が塗り重ねられている。

Around the truth, layers of lies are always painted over.

Metaphorical usage in a philosophical or investigative context.

そのカリスマ性の周りには、一種の狂信的な熱狂が渦巻いていた。

A kind of fanatical enthusiasm swirled around that charisma.

Describes intense social and emotional phenomena.

宇宙の果ての周りには、人類の想像を絶する世界が広がっている。

Around the edge of the universe, a world beyond human imagination spreads out.

Speculative/Scientific usage regarding the unknown.

自己の周りに広がる世界を、どう定義するかは自分次第だ。

How you define the world that spreads out around your 'self' is up to you.

Existential usage regarding perception and reality.

Collocations courantes

周りを見渡す

周りに合わせる

周りに気を配る

周りの状況

周りの目

周りに広がる

周りに集まる

周りの人

周りに影響を与える

周りを確認する

Phrases Courantes

周りに迷惑をかける

周りの空気を読む

周りに気を遣う

周りを気にする

周りを見回す

周りに流される

周りの期待

周りの助け

周りの環境

周りに知らせる

Souvent confondu avec

周りに vs 近くに (Chikaku ni)

Means 'nearby' but doesn't imply the 'surrounding' or 'encircling' aspect of 'mawari'.

周りに vs 辺りに (Atari ni)

Refers to a general area or vicinity without a clear central point.

周りに vs 隣に (Tonari ni)

Means 'next to' or 'adjacent,' usually referring to one specific side.

Expressions idiomatiques

"周りが見えなくなる"

To lose sight of what's happening around you, often due to being too focused or emotional.

怒りで周りが見えなくなってしまった。

Neutral

"周りを固める"

To secure one's surroundings, often used in a business or political sense to gather supporters.

新社長は自分の周りを信頼できる人で固めた。

Business/Formal

"周りを巻き込む"

To involve others around you in a situation, often unintentionally or in a large-scale way.

彼の失敗が周りを巻き込む大騒動になった。

Neutral

"周りに花を持たせる"

To let someone else take the credit or be the star, literally 'to let others hold the flowers.'

彼はいつも周りに花を持たせる謙虚な人だ。

Idiomatic/Polite

"周りがうるさい"

Literally 'the surroundings are noisy,' but often used to mean people are gossiping or interfering.

結婚しろと周りがうるさくて困る。

Informal

"周りに一目置かれる"

To be recognized or respected by those around you for one's skill or character.

彼は若いが、その技術で周りに一目置かれている。

Neutral/Formal

"周りを出し抜く"

To outsmart or get ahead of those around you, often in a competitive way.

彼は周りを出し抜いて、一番に昇進した。

Neutral

"周りに溶け込む"

To blend in or integrate well with one's surroundings or social group.

新しいクラスにすぐ周りに溶け込んだ。

Neutral

"周りを伺う"

To cautiously observe the reactions or situation of those around you.

顔色を窺いながら、周りの様子を伺う。

Neutral

"周りを置き去りにする"

To leave others behind, either physically or in terms of progress/understanding.

彼の議論は高度すぎて、周りを置き去りにした。

Neutral

Facile à confondre

周りに vs 周囲 (Shuui)

Both mean surroundings.

'Shuui' is formal and used in writing/technical contexts. 'Mawari' is for daily life.

円の周囲を計算する (Calculate the circumference of the circle).

周りに vs 付近 (Fukin)

Both mean nearby area.

'Fukin' is more formal and often used in directions or news.

駅付近で待ち合わせる (Meet in the vicinity of the station).

周りに vs 周辺 (Shuupen)

Both mean surroundings.

'Shuupen' often refers to the outskirts or the area just outside a center.

東京周辺の観光地 (Tourist spots around Tokyo).

周りに vs 身近 (Midika)

Both can mean 'around you'.

'Midika' is about personal familiarity or emotional closeness.

身近な問題 (A problem close to home).

周りに vs そば (Soba)

Both mean near.

'Soba' implies being right next to something, often with a sense of support.

いつもそばにいるよ (I'm always by your side).

Structures de phrases

[Noun] の周りに [Subject] があります/います。

机の周りに椅子があります。

[Noun] の周りに [Verb (atsumaru/suwaru etc.)]。

先生の周りに集まりました。

周りに [Noun] をかける/与える。

周りに迷惑をかける。

周りの [Noun] を気にする/読む。

周りの空気を読む。

[Abstract Noun] の周りに [Verb/Noun]。

事件の周りに謎がある。

[Philosophical Concept] の周りに [Verb]。

真実の周りに嘘がある。

周りに何がありますか？

あなたの周りに何がありますか？

周りの人

周りの人はみんな優しいです。

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation, media, and public signs.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'mawari ni' for 'about' with numbers. → 100人ぐらい (100-nin gurai)
'Mawari ni' is spatial. Using it for numbers is a literal translation from English 'around' that doesn't work in Japanese.
Forgetting the 'no' particle. → 家の周りに (Ie no mawari ni)
'Mawari' is a noun and needs 'no' to connect to another noun. 'Ie mawari' is ungrammatical.
Using 'ni' for movement around an object. → 公園の周りを走る (Kouen no mawari o hashiru)
'Ni' marks location. For movement through or along a path (like running the perimeter), 'o' is required.
Confusing 'mawari' with 'chikaku' for simple proximity. → 駅の近くに住んでいます (Eki no chikaku ni sunde imasu)
'Mawari' implies surrounding. If you live 'around' the station, it sounds like your house encircles it. Use 'chikaku' for 'near.'
Using 'mawari ni' for topical 'about'. → その問題について (Sono mondai ni tsuite)
To talk 'about' a topic, use 'nitsuite.' 'Mawari ni' would mean physically being around the topic.

Astuces

The Power of 'No'

Never forget the 'no' particle. It connects the center point to the surroundings. 'Gakkou no mawari' is the correct way to say 'around the school.' Without 'no,' the sentence falls apart.

Reading the Air

In Japan, paying attention to what is 'mawari ni' is a social skill. Use 'mawari no kuuki o yomu' to describe someone who is socially aware and 'mawari ni awaseru' for someone who goes with the flow.

Public Awareness

You will see 'mawari ni chuui' (watch your surroundings) everywhere in Japan. It's a key phrase for staying safe in busy cities and train stations.

Mawari vs. Atari

Use 'mawari' when there is a specific center (like a house). Use 'atari' for a general, center-less area (like 'this part of town'). This distinction makes your Japanese sound much more natural.

Ni vs. O

Remember: 'Ni' is for where you ARE. 'O' is for where you MOVE. 'Mawari ni tatsu' (stand around) vs. 'Mawari o aruku' (walk around).

Don't be a Meiwaku

The phrase 'mawari ni meiwaku o kakeru' is a cornerstone of Japanese etiquette. It means causing trouble for those around you. Avoiding this is a major part of Japanese culture.

Descriptive Power

Use 'mawari ni' to set the scene in your writing. Instead of just saying 'there are trees,' say 'the house was surrounded by trees' (ie no mawari ni ki ga atta) to create a more vivid image.

Listen for the 'R'

The 'ri' in 'mawari' is a light tap. If you hear a hard 'L' or a curled English 'R,' it might be a non-native speaker. Native speakers keep it light and quick.

Minomawari

The compound 'minomawari' (around the body) refers to your personal affairs and belongings. It's a useful word for talking about daily life management.

Draw a Circle

When you think of 'mawari,' always visualize a circle. This helps you remember that it implies an all-around presence, not just a single point nearby.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'MA' (Mama) and 'WARI' (Worry). Imagine your 'Mama' is 'Worried' about everything 'around' you. MA-WARI = Around.

Association visuelle

Visualize a compass drawing a perfect circle. The line it draws is the 'mawari' (circumference), and everything inside that line is 'mawari ni' (around the center).

Word Web

Center Circle Environment People Safety Neighborhood Perimeter Context

Défi

Try to describe five things 'mawari ni' your current location in Japanese. For example: 'Watashi no mawari ni wa, pasokon ga arimasu.'

Origine du mot

The word 'mawari' comes from the verb 'mawaru' (回る), which has been used since Old Japanese to describe circular motion. The kanji '周' (shuu) depicts a field with plants, originally meaning 'dense' or 'complete,' and later evolved to mean 'to go all the way around' or 'circumference.'

Sens originel : To complete a circuit or to encompass an area entirely.

Japonic

Contexte culturel

When using 'mawari' to describe people, it is generally neutral to positive. However, saying 'mawari ga urusai' (those around me are noisy/interfering) can be seen as complaining about social pressure.

English speakers often focus on 'near' or 'next to,' whereas Japanese speakers frequently use 'mawari' to emphasize the entire surrounding area or the collective group of people present.

The song 'Sekai no Mawari de' (Around the World). The common safety slogan 'Mawari no anzen o kakunin!' (Check the safety of your surroundings!). Japanese literature often uses 'mawari' to describe the 'fubutsushi' (seasonal things) that surround a character.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Giving Directions

駅の周り
公園の周り
この周りに
建物の周りを

Social Situations

周りの人
周りに合わせる
周りに気を遣う
周りの目

Safety and Awareness

周りを確認する
周りに注意する
周りを見る
周りの安全

Nature and Environment

池の周り
山の周り
木の周りに
自然の周り

Home and Office

机の周り
家の周り
自分の周り
身の回り

Amorces de conversation

"あなたの家の周りには、何がありますか？ (What is around your house?)"

"仕事の周りの人は、どんな人たちですか？ (What are the people around you at work like?)"

"最近、あなたの周りで何か面白いことはありましたか？ (Has anything interesting happened around you lately?)"

"旅行に行くとき、駅の周りのホテルを探しますか？ (When you travel, do you look for hotels around the station?)"

"周りの目を気にするタイプですか？ (Are you the type who worries about what others think?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、自分の周りで見つけた美しいものについて書いてください。 (Write about something beautiful you found around you today.)

あなたの周りにいる大切な人たちについて紹介してください。 (Introduce the important people around you.)

理想的な家の周りの環境について説明してください。 (Describe the ideal environment around your house.)

周りの期待と自分のやりたいことの間で悩んだことはありますか？ (Have you ever struggled between the expectations of those around you and what you want to do?)

都会の周りと田舎の周り、どちらが好きですか？その理由も。 (Which do you prefer, the surroundings of a city or the countryside? Why?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, 'mawari ni' is for physical or social surroundings. For 'about' with numbers, use 'gurai' or 'yoso.' For 'about' a topic, use 'nitsuite.' Using 'mawari ni' for numbers sounds like people are physically standing in a circle around the number 5.

'Mawari ni' indicates a location where something exists or an action like sitting happens. 'Mawari o' indicates the area where a movement like running or walking occurs. For example, 'mawari ni suwaru' (sit around) vs. 'mawari o hashiru' (run around the perimeter).

'Mawari' is a noun meaning 'surroundings.' When combined with the particle 'ni,' it functions as an adverbial phrase meaning 'in the surroundings' or 'around.' You can also use it as a noun with other particles like 'mawari ga' or 'mawari no.'

You can say 'watashi no mawari no hito' (the people of my surroundings) or 'watashi no mawari ni iru hito' (the people who are around me). In casual speech, 'mawari no hito' is very common.

Yes, but in a formal math context, 'shuui' (周囲) is more common. However, in casual explanation, 'mawari no nagasa' (the length of the surroundings) is perfectly fine.

Not strictly, but it implies multiple points surrounding a center. It's more 'all-encompassing' than 'chikaku' (near), which could be just one point.

You can use 'ie no mawari' to mean the area around your house, but the specific word for neighborhood is 'kinjo' (近所). 'Mawari' is broader and can apply to any central object.

Yes, 'mawari' is the noun form of the verb 'mawaru.' It literally refers to the area you reach by turning or going around something.

Use 'shuui' in formal writing, news reports, academic papers, or technical descriptions. Use 'mawari' in daily conversation, stories, and casual writing.

No, 'mawari' is strictly spatial or relational. For 'around' a certain time, use 'goro' (e.g., 'san-ji goro' for around 3 o'clock).