Meaning and Usage
"スカート" means "skirt" in Japanese and is a common loanword from English. It refers to a garment worn typically by women that hangs from the waist and covers all or part of the legs.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "スカート" in everyday conversation about clothing, fashion, or school uniforms. It is used in both casual and formal contexts without change.
Collocations and Patterns
- スカートを履く (wear a skirt): The most common verb phrase with スカート, as skirts are "worn" rather than "put on" like hats.
- スカートの丈 (length of the skirt): Used when discussing style or dress codes.
- スカートの下に (under the skirt): Often used when talking about layering clothes, like tights or leggings.
Usage Notes
When talking about skirts, the verb "履く" (はく) is used, not "着る" (きる), which is used for upper-body clothing. Learners sometimes confuse this because "スカート" is a borrowed word and might expect English-like grammar. Remember: skirts and pants use "履く".
Cultural Tip
In Japanese schools, skirt length can be a sensitive topic, as many schools have strict dress codes. Talking about "スカートの丈" (skirt length) can imply discussions about school rules or fashion trends.