Meaning and Usage
The verb 耕す (たがやす) primarily means "to till" or "to plow" the soil in preparation for planting crops. It is commonly used in agricultural contexts but can also be used metaphorically to describe cultivating or developing something intangible, like knowledge or skills.
Common Collocations
- 畑を耕す (はたけをたがやす): to till a field
- 土地を耕す (とちをたがやす): to cultivate land
- 知識を耕す (ちしきをたがやす): to cultivate knowledge (metaphorical)
Register and Nuance
耕す is a neutral verb used in both formal and informal contexts related to farming or metaphorical cultivation. It often implies active effort and preparation for growth.
Usage Tips
When using 耕す literally, it usually involves physical soil preparation. Metaphorically, it can describe nurturing or developing something abstract, such as ideas or skills. Avoid confusing it with 育てる (そだてる), which means "to raise" or "to grow" something already planted or born.