sugoku

Sugoku is a Japanese word that can have multiple meanings depending on the context. The most common interpretation of sugoku (or sugōi) is "very" or "extremely" when used as an adverb. For example, "sugoku ii" means "very good." It's an informal intensifier often used in everyday conversation.

Another less common but still relevant meaning of sugoku relates to the board game Suguru, also known as Number Blocks or Tents. In this logic puzzle, players fill in cells of a grid with numbers, with the rule that no two adjacent cells (including diagonally) can contain the same number. The goal is to fill the entire grid according to these constraints. The name "Sugoku" itself is a portmanteau of "sugoi" (amazing) and "kurokku" (block), reflecting the challenging and engaging nature of the puzzle. While the puzzle is known internationally by other names, the Japanese term "Sugoku" is sometimes used. Therefore, when encountering the word "sugoku," it's important to consider whether it's being used as an adverb or referring to the logic puzzle.