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狭
Narrow, Tight
せま.い, せば.める, せば.まる
JLPT N2
Interesting Fact
Many traditional Japanese streets and alleys are quite narrow. The expression 狭い道 ('narrow road') is commonly seen on road signs and maps.
Memory Trick
Imagine trying to squeeze through a very narrow alley where only one person can pass. That tight space helps you remember 狭 means 'narrow.'
Readings
Onyomi: キョウ (kyou)
Kunyomi: せま.い, せば.める, せば.まる
Example Words
狭い
せまい (semai)
Narrow
狭める
せばめる (sebameru)
To narrow
狭まる
せばまる (sebamaru)
To become narrow
狭苦しい
せまくるしい (semakurushii)
Cramped
Example Sentence
この 部屋 は 少し 狭いです。
この へや は すこし せまいです。
kono heya wa sukoshi semai desu
This room is a little small.