Meaning

Primary

To Arrive

Word Type

intransitive verb, godan verb

Explanation

This word consists of kanji with hiragana attached. Because the hiragana ends with an sound, you know this word is a verb. Remember how can also mean arrive? This is the verb version of that meaning, so it means to arrive.

Reading

つく
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This uses a different kun'yomi reading than the one you just learned, but 着く (つく) has the same reading as 付く (to be attached). Because when arrive somewhere, it's like you're finally attached to your destination.

If that connection doesn't quite click, here's another mnemonic:

You wanted to arrive on time but you showed up late. How late were you? Two () hours and two minutes late, to be exact.

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 東京に着く

    to arrive in Tokyo

    ホテルに着く

    to arrive at a hotel

    家に着く

    to arrive at home

Context Sentences

今、成田空港に着きました。

I've just arrived at Narita Airport.

着く時間が分かったら、またラインして。

Once you know your arrival time, message me on LINE again.

電車が時間通りに着かなかったんです。

The train didn't arrive on time.

Kanji Composition