When it comes to learning a new language, it’s essential to expand your vocabulary by understanding how to express certain phrases or concepts. In this guide, we will explore the various ways to say “keep track” in Japanese, covering both formal and informal expressions. Knowing these phrases will be valuable in day-to-day conversations, whether you find yourself in a professional setting or casually interacting with friends. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Informal Expressions:
When communicating casually with friends or peers, you can use the following expressions to convey the meaning of “keep track”:
1. 見ておく (miteoku) – This phrase implies “to keep an eye on” or “to watch out for.” It is commonly used when you want someone to keep track of something for you.
Example:
友達にこの本を見ておいてもらうよ。(Tomodachi ni kono hon o miteoku te morau yo.)
“I’ll have my friend keep track of this book.”
2. 見張る (miharu) – This expression means “to keep watch” or “to keep an eye on.” It suggests actively monitoring something or someone.
Example:
君が買ったケーキを見張っておくから、心配しないで。(Kimi ga katta keiki o mihatteoku kara, shinpai shinai de.)
“Don’t worry; I’ll keep track of the cake you bought.”
Formal Expressions:
When communicating in formal or professional situations, it’s essential to use appropriate language. Here are some formal expressions for “keep track”:
1. 把握する (haaku suru) – This phrase translates to “to grasp” or “to comprehend.” It is commonly used in formal settings, implying a thorough understanding and careful monitoring.
Example:
プロジェクトの進捗状況を常に把握する必要があります。(Purojekuto no shinchoku jōkyō o tsune ni haaku suru hitsuyō ga arimasu.)
“It is necessary to constantly keep track of the progress of the project.”
2. 追跡する (tsuiseki suru) – This expression means “to track” or “to trace.” It is particularly suitable when you want to emphasize the action of tracing or following something.
Example:
顧客の注文を追跡するため、システムを利用しています。(Kokyaku no chūmon o tsuiseki suru tame, shisutemu o riyou shiteimasu.)
“We use the system to keep track of customer orders.”
Additional Tips and Regional Variations:
While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout Japan, it’s worth noting that regional variations exist. Some dialects or regional expressions may differ slightly from the standard Japanese. Here are a few additional tips:
- 1. Kansai Dialect: In the Kansai region, particularly in areas like Osaka and Kyoto, the phrase “keep track” can be expressed using the term “おんぶに抱っこ” (onbu ni dakko), which translates to “carrying on your back.” It vividly denotes the idea of someone holding and keeping track of something securely.
- 2. Tohoku Dialect: In the Tohoku region, including areas like Sendai and Aomori, you may come across the phrase “手綱を引く” (tezuna o hiku), which literally means “to pull the reins.” This phrase metaphorically conveys the idea of guiding or controlling the situation.
Learning these regional variations can provide an interesting insight into the culture and linguistic diversity of Japan.
Now, armed with these formal and informal expressions, you can confidently handle conversations in Japanese when you need to communicate the concept of “keep track.” Remember to adapt your language choice depending on the formality of the situation and always be open to discovering new regional expressions, allowing you to connect with locals on a deeper level. Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!)
