Meaning and Usage
"澄ます" primarily means "to clear" or "to make clear," often used for water or air becoming transparent or pure. It also means "to listen carefully," implying focusing one's attention to hear something distinctly. Another common usage is to describe someone putting on a composed or serious expression, often translated as "to look calm or poised."
Common Collocations
- 耳を澄ます (みみをすます): to listen carefully or attentively, often used when trying to catch faint sounds.
- 顔を澄ます (かおをすます): to put on a composed or serious face, sometimes implying a deliberate or affected expression.
- 水が澄む (みずがすむ): water becomes clear or transparent.
Register and Nuance
"澄ます" is a somewhat literary or formal verb, often found in written Japanese or polite speech. It is not casual and conveys a sense of clarity or attentiveness. When used for facial expressions, it can imply a deliberate effort to appear calm or dignified.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "澄ます" with "済ます" (also read すます), which means "to finish" or "to settle (a matter)." Pay attention to the kanji and context to avoid mixing these verbs.