Meaning and Usage
The verb 外す (はずす) primarily means "to remove" or "to unfasten" something physically attached, such as a button, glasses, or a necktie. It can also mean "to miss" or "to fail to hit" a target, especially in sports or games. Additionally, it is used idiomatically to indicate being away from a place, such as "席を外す" meaning "to be away from one's seat."
Common Collocations
- ネクタイを外す: to take off a necktie, often to relax or be more comfortable.
- ボタンを外す: to unbutton or remove a button.
- 席を外す: to be away from one's seat, often used in office or meeting contexts.
- シュートを外す: to miss a shot, common in sports.
Register and Nuance
外す is a neutral verb used in both casual and polite contexts. When used to mean "to be away from one's seat," it is often seen in business or formal settings. When referring to missing a target, it carries a nuance of failure or mistake.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 外す with 取る (とる), which also means "to take" or "to remove." However, 外す often implies detaching something that is fixed or attached, while 取る is more general. Also, 外す can mean "to miss" a target, which 取る does not.
Understanding these nuances will help you use 外す accurately in various contexts.