Translation guide
The English phrase "taking root" can refer to plants establishing themselves in soil, or metaphorically to ideas, customs, or people becoming settled or established. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both literal and figurative uses.
To describe a plant or cutting that has begun to grow roots and become established in soil.
The most common and natural way to say a plant takes root. Intransitive verb.
The cutting has taken root.
This plant just won't take root.
Literally 'to put down roots'. Slightly more literary or emphatic than 根付く.
The sapling has firmly taken root.
Technical term used in horticulture for a plant successfully establishing after transplanting.
After transplanting, keep watering until it takes root.
To describe an abstract concept, practice, or movement that becomes accepted or firmly established in a society or group.
The standard word for an idea, custom, or word becoming established. Works for both positive and neutral contexts.
The new lifestyle has taken root.
This word hasn't taken root yet.
Also used metaphorically for ideas, customs, etc., emphasizing organic, gradual acceptance. Slightly more literary than 定着する.
Emphasizes permeation or spreading throughout a group. Often used for ideas, awareness, or technology.
To describe a person becoming established and feeling at home in a new location.
Metaphorically 'putting down roots', implying a long-term commitment to a place.
He put down roots in this town and started a family.
To settle permanently. More factual and less metaphorical than 根を下ろす.
The immigrants took root in this region.
To settle down, become calm and established. Often used for personal life stages.
民主主義がこの国に根付くには時間がかかるだろう。
It will take time for democracy to take root in this country.
Environmental awareness has taken root in society.
彼は東京に落ち着いて、仕事を見つけた。
He settled down in Tokyo and found a job.