初め — meaning in English: beginning

hajime · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for beginning

コンテキスト

kontekisuto

スクリーン

sukurīn

難民

nanmin

初め

hajime

クラブ

kurabu

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 初め (hajime) when discussing the start of an event or activity, such as when a teacher announces the 初めの授業 (hajime no jugyō - beginning of class). It's also commonly used in phrases like 初めて (hajimete - for the first time) to describe new experiences, making it useful in both daily conversation and more formal settings.

Synonyms & nuances

初め (hajime) is often compared to 始まり (hajimari), which also means 'beginning.' While both can be used interchangeably in many contexts, 初め (hajime) tends to carry a more formal tone, while 始まり (hajimari) is more casual and can be used in everyday conversations.

Culture

The word 初め (hajime) has roots in classical Japanese literature and is often associated with the concept of beginnings in both life and art. In Japan, starting something new is a significant cultural theme, reflected in traditional events such as the New Year, where people look forward to 初め (hajime) of new opportunities and experiences.

FAQ

Q.What does 初め mean in English?

初め (hajime) translates to 'beginning' in English, and it is commonly used to signify the start of an event or experience.

Q.How do you use 初め in a sentence?

You can use 初め in sentences like, '初めに説明します' (Hajime ni setsumei shimasu), which means 'I will explain at the beginning.'

Q.Is there a common mistake to avoid with 初め?

A common mistake is confusing 初め (hajime) with 初めて (hajimete), which means 'for the first time.' Remember, 初め focuses on the concept of starting, while 初めて emphasizes the novelty of the experience.

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