Meaning and Usage
The verb 刺す (さす) primarily means "to stab," "to prick," or "to sting." It is used when something sharp or pointed penetrates or pierces an object or skin. This can be literal, such as a knife stabbing an apple, or figurative, such as a mosquito biting the skin.
Common Contexts
- Insect bites or stings: 蚊が刺す (a mosquito stings).
- Using a sharp object: ナイフで刺す (to stab with a knife).
- Violent actions: 人を刺す (to stab a person).
Collocations and Patterns
- 蚊に刺される: to be bitten by a mosquito.
- ナイフで刺す: to stab with a knife.
- 背中を刺す: to stab someone's back.
Register and Nuance
刺す is a neutral verb but can be strong or violent depending on context, especially when referring to stabbing a person. When talking about insect bites, it is a common and natural expression.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 刺す with 突く (つく), which also means "to poke" or "to stab." 刺す emphasizes penetration or piercing, often with a sharp object or sting, while 突く can mean to poke or jab without necessarily piercing deeply.
Use 刺す when the action involves piercing or biting, especially with sharp or pointed objects or insects.