Meaning and Usage
"拍手" (はくしゅ) means "clapping hands" or "applause." It is commonly used to describe the act of clapping to show appreciation, approval, or celebration.
Common Contexts
You will often hear or see "拍手" at performances, speeches, or events where people express their approval or enjoyment. It can be both a noun (the applause itself) and a verb phrase when combined with verbs like "する" (to do).
Collocations and Patterns
- 拍手をする: to clap hands, to applaud
- 拍手喝采 (はくしゅかっさい): enthusiastic applause
- 大きな拍手: loud applause
Register and Nuance
"拍手" is neutral and polite, suitable for formal and informal situations. It is a standard word used in everyday conversation and media.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "拍手" with "手を叩く" (てをたたく), which literally means "to clap hands" but is less commonly used to mean applause. Use "拍手をする" when referring to applause specifically.