Meaning and Usage
The verb 負かす (まかす) means "to defeat" or "to beat" someone, typically in a competition, game, or argument. It is a transitive verb and often used when one person or team wins over another.
Common Contexts
You will often hear 負かす in sports, games, debates, or any competitive situation where one side wins. It implies a clear victory over the opponent.
Collocations and Patterns
- 負かす + opponent (相手を負かす): to defeat the opponent
- 試合で負かす: to defeat in a match
- 議論で負かす: to defeat in an argument or debate
Register and Nuance
負かす is a neutral to slightly strong verb used in everyday and formal contexts. It is not overly formal but is appropriate in written and spoken language. It emphasizes the act of winning or overcoming someone.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 負かす (to defeat) with 負ける (まける), which means "to lose." Remember, 負かす is active (to defeat someone), while 負ける is passive (to be defeated).