1.
to take up a position; to station oneself; to claim a spot
To settle into a particular location and occupy it, often implying staying there for some time. Originally a military term meaning to set up camp, now commonly used for everyday situations like claiming a seat or spot.
窓際に陣取った。
I claimed a spot by the window.
子どもたちがテレビの前に陣取っている。
The children have planted themselves in front of the TV.
花見の場所を確保するために、朝から公園に陣取っている人がいた。
There were people who had been camped out in the park since morning to secure a spot for cherry blossom viewing.
A godan verb (五段動詞) conjugating with the る row. Originally a military term from 陣 (battle formation/camp) + 取る (to take), it has shifted to everyday use describing someone settling firmly into a spot.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 窓際に陣取る (claim a window seat)
- テレビの前に陣取る (plant oneself in front of the TV)
- 最前列に陣取る (take up a front-row position)
USAGE NOTES:
Implies staying put for a while, not just briefly sitting. Often carries a humorous or slightly exaggerated tone in everyday speech, as if the person is "occupying" a position like a soldier. The ている form is especially common, emphasizing the ongoing occupation of the spot.