Meaning and Usage
The verb 浸す (ひたす) means "to soak," "to dip," or "to drench" something in a liquid. It is often used when you immerse an object partially or fully in water or another liquid to soften, clean, color, or marinate it.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 浸す used in cooking contexts, such as soaking vegetables or cloth in water or dye. It can also be used for cleaning purposes, like soaking a towel or cloth.
Collocations and Patterns
- 水に浸す (みずにひたす): to soak in water — very common for cleaning or softening.
- 染料に浸す (せんりょうにひたす): to dip in dye — used in textile or craft contexts.
- 〜を浸しておく: to leave something soaking — implies leaving it immersed for some time.
Register and Nuance
浸す is a neutral verb, suitable for both casual and formal contexts. It is more specific than just "wetting" something; it implies deliberate immersion.
Common Learner Mistake
Do not confuse 浸す with 濡らす (ぬらす), which means "to wet" or "to moisten" but does not necessarily imply full immersion. 浸す always involves soaking or dipping into liquid.