Exploring the Meaning of “通りすがり” (Toorisugari): What Does “Sugari” Mean?

When you first encounter the term “通りすがり” (toorisugari), you might wonder about the meaning of “すがり” (sugari). This term seems unique and isn’t commonly seen in other contexts. Why is “すがり” used only in “通りすがり”? Let’s dive into its origin and usage to clarify this intriguing expression.

What Does “Sugari” in “Toorisugari” Mean?

The term “通りすがり” (toorisugari) is derived from the verb “すがる” (sugaru), which generally means “to cling to” or “to rely on” in Japanese.

• Example: 壁にすがる (kabe ni sugaru) – Cling to a wall, ロープにすがる (roopu ni sugaru) – Cling to a rope.

In the case of “通りすがり” (toorisugari), the verb “すがる” has evolved from its original sense of clinging to a more neutral meaning. Here, it implies passing by or happening to pass through, rather than a physical act of clinging. The term now suggests an incidental or casual encounter, rather than a desperate grasp.

How to Use “Toorisugari”

The expression “通りすがり” (toorisugari) is used in various contexts to describe something happening by chance or without a specific purpose:

• Passing By: 通りすがりのおじさんが助けてくれた (Toorisugari no ojisan ga tasukete kureta) – A passerby helped me.
• Chance Event: 通りすがりの出来事に巻き込まれた (Toorisugari no dekigoto ni makikomareta) – Got involved in an accidental event.
• Casual Visit: 通りすがりに立ち寄ったお店 (Toorisugari ni tachiyotta omise) – A store I happened to stop by.

In these examples, “通りすがり” (toorisugari) conveys the sense of an incidental or unplanned action or event.

Similar Expressions

Here are a few similar terms to “通りすがり” (toorisugari):

• 通りがかり (Toorigakari): Nearly the same meaning, used interchangeably with “toorisugari.”
• たまたま (Tamatama): Means “by chance” or “accidentally.”
• 偶然 (Guzen): Means “unexpectedly” or “by coincidence.”

Summary: The Meaning of “Toorisugari”

While “通りすがり” (toorisugari) is commonly used in daily Japanese, its origin in “すがる” (sugaru) reflects a deeper meaning. Originally related to clinging or relying, in this context, it has shifted to represent a casual or incidental action. Understanding these subtle nuances helps in appreciating the richness of Japanese expressions.

Japanese has many words with fascinating backgrounds and shifts in meaning. For instance, “なるほど” (naruhodo) originally meant “I see, I understand,” but now is often used simply as “I see.” Delving into these linguistic nuances can make learning Japanese more engaging and insightful.

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