Meaning and Usage
The verb 掃く (はく) primarily means "to sweep" or "to brush" using a broom or similar tool. It is commonly used in everyday contexts related to cleaning floors, gardens, or other surfaces by gathering up dirt, dust, or leaves.
Common Contexts
掃く is often used when talking about cleaning the entrance of a house (玄関を掃く), sweeping floors (床を掃く), or clearing fallen leaves (落ち葉を掃く). It implies a physical action of brushing or sweeping something away.
Collocations and Patterns
- 玄関を掃く: sweeping the entrance, a common daily cleaning task.
- 床を掃く: sweeping the floor, often before mopping.
- 落ち葉を掃く: sweeping fallen leaves, typical in autumn.
Register and Politeness
掃く is a neutral verb suitable for casual and polite conversation. It is not formal or honorific but perfectly appropriate for everyday speech.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 掃く (はく, to sweep) with 拭く (ふく, to wipe). 掃く involves sweeping or brushing away dirt, while 拭く means to wipe or clean a surface by rubbing it, often with a cloth. Remember: 掃く uses a broom or brush, 拭く uses a cloth or hand.