Running is a popular physical activity that is enjoyed by people of all ages across the globe. If you find yourself in Japan, it’s helpful to know how to express the action “to run” in Japanese. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “to run” in both formal and informal contexts, as well as provide regional variations if necessary. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced in your Japanese language learning journey, this guide will equip you with essential vocabulary and tips.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “To Run”
When speaking in formal situations or addressing someone with higher social status, it’s important to use appropriate polite language. Here are some formal ways to say “to run” in Japanese:
Hashiru (走る): This is the standard word for “to run” in formal contexts. It is used in various situations, such as talking about running as a physical activity, running for transportation, or running a race.
Example:
私は毎朝公園を走ります。
Watashi wa maiasa kōen o hashirimasu.
Translation: I run in the park every morning.
2. Informal Ways to Say “To Run”
In casual conversations or when speaking with friends, you can use more relaxed language to say “to run.” Here are common informal expressions:
Hashiru (走る): While “hashiru” is also used in formal situations, it can be used informally as well.
Hashitteiku (走っていく): This phrase indicates the action of running and continuing in a specific direction. It implies both the act of running and the movement towards a destination.
Hashitte kuru (走ってくる): Similar to “hashitteiku,” this expression conveys the action of running but emphasizes the movement towards the speaker’s location or direction.
Hashirinuku (走り抜く): This phrase refers to running with determination or running through a course without stopping.
Example:
友達と公園で走っていく予定です。
Tomodachi to kōen de hashitteiku yotei desu.
Translation: I plan to run with my friend at the park.
3. Regional Variations
Japanese language can have regional variations in vocabulary and expressions. While “hashiru” is widely understood and used across Japan, particularly in Tokyo and standard Japanese, some regions have their own distinctive words or phrases for “to run.” Here are a few examples:
Bashōru (バショール): This term is used in Kobe and the Kansai region to mean “to run.”
Kakekkoru (駆けっこる): Mostly used in the Nagoya region, it emphasizes the action of running swiftly or dashing.
Bukkagiru (ぶっかぎる): This expression, common in the Kyushu region, refers to running energetically or at full speed.
Example:
神戸ではバショールと言います。
Kōbe de wa bashōru to iimasu.
Translation: In Kobe, we say “bashōru” for running.
4. Useful Tips for Using “To Run” in Japanese
Here are some additional tips to help you use the word “to run” more effectively in Japanese:
- When using polite language, it’s often appropriate to include a subject pronoun like “watashi” (I) or “anata” (you) before the verb.
- If you want to specify the location or destination where you plan to run, use the particle “de” (で) after the noun.
- Consider using counters to indicate the duration or distance of your run. For example, you can say “3キロ走りました” (san kiro hashirimashita) to mean “I ran 3 kilometers.”
- Practice different verb conjugations to express past or future tense. For instance, “走っています” (hashitte imasu) means “I am running,” while “走ります” (hashirimasu) means “I will run.”
Conclusion
Now you’re equipped with a comprehensive understanding of how to say “to run” in Japanese. Remember to tailor your word choice based on the formality of the situation, and feel free to use the informal variations with friends or in casual exchanges. Regional variations can add flavor to your language use if you’re in specific areas. Don’t forget to make use of the tips provided for clarity and precision in your communication. Happy running!
