to spit

JLPT N2 6 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of (tǔ)

The character primarily means "to spit" or "to vomit." It is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example, it can describe the physical action of spitting saliva or vomiting due to illness. Additionally, can be used metaphorically to mean "to reveal" or "to confess" something hidden, such as a secret or feelings.

Common Collocations

  • (tǔ kǒushuǐ): to spit saliva, often expressing disgust or anger.
  • (tǔ xiě): to vomit blood, used in medical or dramatic contexts.
  • (tǔlù xīnshēng): to reveal one's true feelings or secrets.

Notes

When using to mean "to vomit," it often appears with other words indicating what is being vomited or the cause. In figurative use, is often combined with words like (lù) to form expressions about revealing information. Be careful not to confuse with similar verbs like (pēn, to spray) or (ǒu, to vomit, but more colloquial).

Example Sentences

He angrily spat out a mouthful of saliva.

The child ate something bad and started to vomit.

He couldn't help but reveal the secret in his heart.