Word
踏み込む
Meaning in Englishto step into (someone else's territory, to break into, to raid
Animated kanji stroke order
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Word context
What it means
踏み込む means to step into or enter a space or situation more directly, physically or metaphorically, often implying initiative or probing.
Main meanings
- Physical entry into a space or location.
- Metaphorically entering a topic, discussion, or issue with depth or assertiveness.
- Crossing boundaries or intruding into someone’s personal or professional space.
- Investigating or probing to uncover details.
How to use it
Used in formal writing and everyday speech to indicate stepping into action or entering a situation. Common collocations include 議論に踏み込む, 話題に踏み込む, and 相手の領域に踏み込む; context determines whether the nuance is proactive, invasive, or investigative.
Variants and close terms
- 切り込む (kirikomu) — to thrust into a situation, often more forceful
- 侵入する (shinnyū suru) — to invade or trespass, more formal
- 退く (shirizoku) — to step back, antonym
Composition
- 踏: to step on; base meaning relates to foot and contact
- 込: to go into, to crowd in; conveys entering or inclusion
Etymology
踏む from stepping; 込む meaning to go into; combination forms the verb meaning to step into.
Word class
verb (五段動詞)
Word
Related words by kanji and components
N2
飛び込む
tobikomu
to jump in, to leap in, to plunge into
N2
払い込む
haraikomu
to deposit, to pay in
N2
引っ込む
hikkomu
to draw back, to sink, to cave in
N2
踏切
fumikiri
railway crossing, level crossing, starting line, scratch, crossover
N3
申し込む
moushikomu
apply, sign up, request
N3
人込み
hitogomi
crowd of people
N4
込む
komu
be crowded, be packed
N4
踏む
fumu
step on, tread on
Kanji