Meaning and Usage
The verb 詰める (つめる) has several related meanings centered around the idea of filling or making something more compact. It can mean to pack or stuff something tightly, such as putting items into a box. It also means to shorten or reduce intervals, like cutting down meeting time. Additionally, it is used when finalizing or working out details, especially plans or schedules.
Common Collocations
- 箱に詰める: to pack into a box, used when physically filling a container.
- 時間を詰める: to shorten time, often used in scheduling or planning.
- 計画を詰める: to finalize or work out details of a plan.
Register and Nuance
詰める is a neutral verb suitable for both casual and formal contexts. When used in business or planning, it often implies careful and detailed arrangement. In everyday life, it can simply mean packing or filling.
Learner Tips
A common confusion is between 詰める (to pack/fill) and 詰まる (つまる), which is the intransitive counterpart meaning "to be packed" or "to be clogged." Remember 詰める is transitive and requires a direct object. For example, you pack (詰める) books into a box, but the box is packed (詰まる) with books.
Understanding these nuances will help you use 詰める accurately in various contexts, from daily activities to business discussions.