Meaning and Usage
"パンツ" primarily means "underpants" or "underwear" in everyday Japanese. It is a casual term used for both men's and women's underwear, though context or additional words may specify gender.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "パンツ" when talking about buying, wearing, or accidentally showing underwear. It is a common word in daily conversation and informal settings.
Collocations and Patterns
- パンツを買う (to buy underwear): Used when shopping or talking about purchasing underwear.
- パンツを履く (to wear underwear): Describes the act of putting on underwear.
- パンツが見える (underwear is visible): Used when underwear accidentally shows, often causing embarrassment.
Register and Nuance
"パンツ" is informal and suitable for casual conversation. In formal contexts, words like "下着" (したぎ) or "下着類" might be preferred.
Common Learner Mistake
Some learners confuse "パンツ" with "ズボン" (pants/trousers). Remember, "パンツ" usually means underwear, while "ズボン" means outer pants or trousers.