to clean, to sweep, to wipe away

JLPT N5 6 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The verb (sǎo) primarily means "to sweep" or "to clean by sweeping." It is commonly used in everyday contexts related to cleaning floors, yards, or surfaces by removing dust, dirt, or debris.

Common Collocations

  • (sǎo dì): sweep the floor
  • 扫帚 (sàozhou): broom (tool used for sweeping)
  • 扫除灰尘 (sǎochú huīchén): sweep away dust

Usage Notes

When using , the object is often the surface or area being cleaned, such as (floor), 院子 (yard), or 桌子 (table). The action implies physically removing dirt or debris with a broom or similar tool.

Avoid confusing with (cā), which means "to wipe" or "to rub" and usually involves a cloth rather than a broom.

Register and Tone

is a neutral, commonly used verb suitable for both spoken and written Chinese. It is appropriate in casual and formal contexts when discussing cleaning tasks.

Example Sentences

She sweeps the floor every morning.

Please help me sweep away the dust on the table.

He used a broom to sweep the fallen leaves clean in the yard.