Entry
ゆくと
yukuto
To move or spend time slowly and leisurely without rushing.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
ゆくと is a classical literary adverb used to describe movement or the passage of time occurring very slowly, calmly, and without any rush. It is an archaic form that carries the same meaning and soothing nuance as the modern word "ゆっくり" (yukkuri). Today, it is almost never used in daily conversation and is typically reserved for historical novels, poetry, or classical literary texts to create a serene, old-world atmosphere.
- moving slowly
- spending time
Sense Map
Slow Movement
Moving forward or performing physical activities at a very slow, unhurried pace.
ゆくと歩く。
Leisurely Time
Spending time calmly and peacefully, letting time pass at a relaxed rhythm.
ゆくと時を過ごす。
Usage Note
How to Use
ゆくと + verb
Place ゆくと before a verb of movement or time to describe that the action is performed very slowly and without haste.
How to Use
Common Phrases
ゆくと歩く
walk slowly
ゆくと進む
proceed unhurriedly
ゆくと過ぎる
pass slowly
ゆくと動く
move slowly
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Historical literature | neutral | Provides a classical, elegant feel and emphasizes a slow rhythm of time. |
| Everyday life | neutral | Almost never used. If used, it sounds highly poetic or overly dramatic. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
ゆっくり ゆっくり / similar | The most common modern word for "slowly" or "leisurely". | ゆくと is a classical or literary form, whereas ゆっくり is used in everyday conversation and writing. | ゆっくり歩く。 |
さっさと さっさと / opposite | When doing something quickly and promptly without delay. | It is the opposite of ゆくと, emphasizing speed and efficiency rather than taking one's time. | さっさと歩く。 |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using this word in everyday casual speech.
It is an archaic literary word that sounds unnatural when spoken. Use "yukkuri" instead.
Assuming the word means physical exhaustion or lethargy.
The word purely indicates a calm, relaxed slow movement, not a lack of energy due to tiredness.
Examples
Examples
老人は杖をつきながら、ゆくと歩いていった。
ろうじんはつえをつきながら、ゆくとあるいていった。
The old man walked slowly while leaning on his cane.
LiteralIndicates unhurried footsteps.
空を流れる雲が、ゆくと進んでいる。
そらをながれるくもが、ゆくとすすんでいる。
The clouds flowing in the sky are proceeding slowly.
VisualDescribes a slow and calm movement in nature.
縁側で茶を飲みながら、ゆくと時を過ごす。
えんがわでちゃをのみながら、ゆくとときをすごす。
Spending time leisurely while drinking tea on the veranda.
LiteralShows a peaceful atmosphere without time pressure.
彼は長い話のあと、ゆくと立ち上がった。
かれはながいはなしのあと、ゆくとたちあがった。
He stood up slowly after a long story.
LiteralDescribes a deliberate, slow physical movement.
穏やかな春の午後が、ゆくと過ぎていく。
おだやかなはるのごごが、ゆくとすぎていく。
A calm spring afternoon passes slowly.
FigurativeA figurative extension describing the slow rhythmic passage of abstract time.
Similar Words
Questions
Can I use this word when talking to friends?
No, it is an archaic word. Use "yukkuri" for everyday conversation.
Is this word related to the verb iku/yuku (to go)?
They sound similar and both can relate to movement, but "yukuto" functions purely as an adverb of manner meaning slowly.
Where am I most likely to see this word?
It mostly appears in historical novels, traditional poetry, or classical Japanese literature.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 2662310
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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