Meaning and Usage
The verb 吐く (はく) primarily means "to vomit" or "to throw up," commonly used when someone physically expels stomach contents. However, it also has figurative uses such as "to speak out" or "to reveal" feelings or thoughts, often in the phrase 本音を吐く (to speak one's true feelings).
Common Collocations
- 吐く (vomit): Used literally when someone vomits.
- 本音を吐く: To reveal one's true feelings or thoughts.
- 息を吐く: To exhale breath.
- タバコの煙を吐く: To exhale cigarette smoke.
Register and Nuance
吐く is a neutral verb but can be somewhat blunt or direct when used figuratively (e.g., revealing feelings). It is common in everyday conversation and written language. When talking about vomiting, it is a straightforward and common term.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse 吐く with 吐き出す, which can mean "to spit out" or "to vomit" but often implies a more forceful or complete expulsion. Also, when used figuratively, 吐く often implies relief or honesty in expressing something hidden.
Understanding these nuances will help you use 吐く naturally in both literal and figurative contexts.