Meaning and Usage
The word "舌" (した) primarily means "tongue," the muscular organ in the mouth. It is used literally to talk about the body part, but also appears in many idiomatic expressions related to speech and taste.
Common Collocations and Patterns
- 舌を噛む (したをかむ): to bite one's tongue accidentally.
- 舌がヒリヒリする: to feel a burning sensation on the tongue, often after eating spicy food.
- 舌が回る (したがまわる): to be eloquent or speak fluently.
Usage Notes
"舌" is a common noun used in everyday conversation and writing. When talking about taste or speech, it often appears in set phrases. For example, "舌が肥えている" means someone has a refined palate.
Be careful not to confuse "舌" with "下" (also read した), which means "under" or "below." Context usually makes the meaning clear.
Register
"舌" is neutral and appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. It is a basic anatomical term but also used metaphorically in idioms.