Meaning and Usage
"洗う" (あらう) is a common verb meaning "to wash" or "to clean by washing." It is used in everyday contexts such as washing hands, face, clothes, dishes, and more. The verb is typically transitive, requiring an object that is being washed.
Common Collocations
- 手を洗う (てをあらう): to wash hands — very common in daily hygiene contexts.
- 顔を洗う (かおをあらう): to wash one's face — a daily routine phrase.
- 服を洗う (ふくをあらう): to wash clothes — often used when talking about laundry.
Usage Notes
"洗う" is a basic verb taught early in Japanese learning (JLPT N5 level). It is polite and neutral in tone, suitable for both casual and formal situations when combined with appropriate politeness forms.
A common learner mistake is confusing "洗う" with "拭く" (ふく), which means "to wipe." Remember, "洗う" involves water and rinsing, while "拭く" is just wiping the surface dry.
Practical Tips
Use "洗う" when you want to express cleaning something with water or liquid. For example, "手を洗う" is a very natural phrase to use when talking about hygiene. When talking about washing dishes, "皿を洗う" is common. This verb is versatile and appears frequently in daily conversation.