翻
to flutter; overturn; change representation
Kanji 1826
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The Japanese associate a fluttering flag with 翻, the kanji that heads off 翻訳 (translation). See what bridges the two concepts, as well as the idea of changing one’s mind, adapting a novel, dodging a tackle, rising in revolt, toying with someone, and doing a somersault! Find out how to say, “Everything has to be considered from another angle” and “This word does not translate well.”
Revision history:
May 25, 2023: p. 2: Changed the first sample sentence to something more natural.
Sept. 9, 2022: p. 6: In the sample sentence about the game, I changed 日本チーム to 日本のチーム, redefined 終始 as “from beginning to end,” and changed the sentence translation to “In today’s game, Brazil’s skillful offense toyed with Japan’s team from start to finish.” The previous translation was fine, but somehow this new version sounds better to me.
Oct. 23, 2021:
- p. 2, Etymology Box: Replaced the Henshall etymology with the new one and updated the Sears link.
- pp. 3 and 13: Corrected the yomi of 前言を翻す.
- p. 3: Corrected the yomi of 原子力発電所.
- p. 14: Added a link to the Kanshudo games.
June 22, 2018: Originally published.
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