隅
すみ
sumi
The word "sumi" refers to a corner, but specifically an interior corner or a remote, tucked-away spot. It evokes an image of being "inside" a space, such as the corner of a room or the deep part of a drawer. This is distinct from "kado," which typically refers to an exterior corner, a sharp edge, or the intersection of two streets.
When used in the repetitive form "sumizumi made" (隅々まで), it means "every single nook and cranny" or "thoroughly," indicating that no small part has been overlooked.
In a social or psychological context, "sumi" represents a position of invisibility or insignificance. Being "in the corner" can imply being shy, marginalized, or intentionally avoiding attention. Conversely, the idiom "sumi ni okenai" (literally "cannot be placed in the corner") is used to describe someone who possesses unexpected talents or influence, suggesting they are too formidable to be ignored or sidelined.
Meanings
The inner angle where two walls or edges meet, or a remote part of a space.
隅に座る。
Sit in the corner.
A figurative position that is remote, peripheral, or marginalized.
隅に追いやる。
Push to the margin.
Examples
部屋の隅に小さな蜘蛛がいてびっくりした。
I was surprised to see a small spider in the corner of the room.
犯人は部屋の隅に隠れて私たちの動きを伺っていた。
The criminal was hiding in the corner of the room and watching our movements.
隅まできれいに掃除したので気持ちがいい。
It feels great because I cleaned every single corner.
封筒の隅が少し破れているのが気になる。
It bothers me that the corner of the envelope is slightly torn.
誰にも気づかれないように隅でこっそり泣いた。
I cried secretly in the corner so that no one would notice.