できもの

できもの

boil, rash

JLPT N1

Meaning and Usage

「できもの」refers to a boil, pimple, or rash—basically any kind of inflammatory bump or lesion on the skin. It is often used in everyday conversation to describe painful or annoying skin problems.

Common Contexts

People use 「できもの」when talking about skin troubles caused by infection, irritation, or stress. It can refer to pimples, boils, or other lumps that appear on the face, body, or other areas.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 「できものができる」: to get a boil or pimple
  • 「できものが治る」: the boil or rash heals
  • 「顔にできもの」: a boil/pimple on the face

These phrases are common in casual and medical contexts.

Register and Nuance

This word is neutral and commonly used in both casual and formal speech. It is not a technical medical term but is widely understood.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 「できもの」 with general words for rash like 「発疹」(はっしん). 「できもの」implies a raised bump or boil, often painful, while 「発疹」is more general for any rash or skin eruption without necessarily a bump.

Example Sentences

かおにできものができて、いたくてふれない。

I have a boil on my face, and it hurts so much I can't touch it.

できものがなおるまで、けしょうはひかえたほうがいい。

It's better to avoid makeup until the boil heals.

すとれすがげんいんでからだにできものができることがある。

Sometimes boils appear on the body due to stress.