(ねづ)

ねづく
verb (godan)
to take root, to become established
1. to take root (plants)
For a plant to establish its roots in soil and begin growing. Describes the process of a transplanted or newly planted seedling becoming established.
(なえ)がしっかり根付(ねづ)いた。
The seedling has taken root firmly.
()()えた(はな)無事(ぶじ)根付(ねづ)くか心配(しんぱい)だ。
I'm worried about whether the transplanted flowers will take root successfully.
(はる)()えた()(なつ)までにしっかり根付(ねづ)いてくれるといい。
I hope the tree I planted in spring takes root firmly by summer.
2. to become established, to take hold
For a custom, idea, culture, or practice to become firmly established in a community or society. A figurative extension of the plant metaphor.
この習慣(しゅうかん)地域(ちいき)根付(ねづ)いている。
This custom is deeply established in the area.
ボランティア活動(かつどう)社会(しゃかい)根付(ねづ)いてきた。
Volunteer activities have become established in society.
(あたら)しい文化(ぶんか)がその(くに)根付(ねづ)くまでには時間(じかん)がかかる。
It takes time for a new culture to take hold in a country.

CONJUGATION:

Godan verb (五段動詞(ごだんどうし)), く-row.

  • Negative: 根付(ねづ)かない
  • Polite: 根付(ねづ)きます
  • Te-form: 根付(ねづ)いて
  • Past: 根付(ねづ)いた

PATTERN:
〜に根付(ねづ)く: to take root in ~
The location or community where something becomes established is marked with に.

SIMILAR WORDS:
定着(ていちゃく)する (to become established) is a more formal, general-purpose alternative. 根付(ねづ)く carries a stronger metaphorical image of organic growth and deep connection.

Related Words