Meaning and Usage
The verb 下す (おろす) primarily means "to lower" or "to let something down." It is often used when physically lowering objects, such as luggage or goods, from a higher place to a lower one.
Besides the physical sense, 下す is also commonly used in a figurative sense to mean "to make a decision" or "to issue a judgment." For example, a manager or a judge 下す a decision or ruling.
Common Collocations and Patterns
- 荷物を下す: to lower luggage or cargo, used in contexts involving transportation or moving items.
- 判定を下す: to make a judgment, often used in sports or legal contexts.
- 決定を下す: to make a decision, used in business or official settings.
Register and Nuance
下す is a neutral to formal verb. When used in decision-making contexts, it often implies authority or responsibility. It is more formal than simply saying 決める (to decide).
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 下す (おろす) with 降ろす (also おろす), which also means "to let down" or "to unload." The difference is subtle: 下す often implies a deliberate action or decision, while 降ろす is more about physically unloading or letting someone/something off (like a vehicle). Context will guide the correct choice.