靴 — meaning in English: shoes

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

Guess the translation for shoe

春

haru

靴

kutsu

恐怖

kyōfu

彫刻

chōkoku

ツアー

tsuā

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 靴 (kutsu) in various everyday situations, such as shopping for footwear at a store or discussing what type of shoes to wear for different occasions. For instance, a friend might ask you, 'What kind of 靴 do you want to wear to the party?'

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is サンダル (sandaru), which means 'sandal.' While 靴 refers to all types of shoes, including sneakers and dress shoes, サンダル specifically denotes open-toed footwear. You would choose 靴 when discussing shoes in a formal context, while サンダル is more casual.

Culture

The word 靴 (kutsu) has its origins in the Chinese characters 靴, which denotes footwear. In Japanese culture, the choice of shoes can reflect one’s social status and personal style, making it a significant part of fashion. Additionally, many traditional Japanese homes require guests to change into special indoor footwear, highlighting the importance of cleanliness and respect in the culture.

FAQ

Q.What does 靴 mean in English?

靴 (kutsu) translates to 'shoes' in English. It refers to various forms of footwear, including formal shoes, casual sneakers, and boots.

Q.How do you pronounce 靴 in Japanese?

靴 is pronounced as 'kutsu.' The pronunciation is straightforward, with a soft 'ku' sound followed by 'tsu.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using the word 靴?

A common mistake is using 靴 for all types of footwear without considering context. For example, if you're referring to sandals or slippers, it might be better to specify those words rather than using 靴.

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