Meaning and Usage
"隅" (すみ) means "corner" and is commonly used to refer to the corner of a room, an object, or a space. It often implies a small or less noticeable part of a place.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "隅" when talking about cleaning, placing objects, or describing locations within a room or area. For example, "部屋の隅" means "the corner of the room."
Collocations and Patterns
- 隅に置く (すみにおく): to place something in the corner
- 隅から隅まで (すみからすみまで): from corner to corner, meaning thoroughly or completely
- 部屋の隅 (へやのすみ): corner of the room
Register and Nuance
"隅" is a neutral word suitable for everyday conversation and writing. It is not formal or casual specifically but is very common in daily life.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "隅" with "角" (かど), which also means "corner" but is used more for sharp corners or edges of objects or buildings. Use "隅" for general corners inside spaces or areas, and "角" for pointed corners or angles.