Meaning and Usage
The verb 剥す (はがす) means "to peel off," "to tear off," or "to rip off" something that is attached or stuck, such as stickers, posters, wrapping paper, or tape. It implies a deliberate action of removing a surface layer or covering.
Common Contexts
You often use 剥す when talking about removing stickers, labels, posters, or packaging. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts but is more common in everyday conversation.
Collocations and Patterns
- ポスターを剥す: to peel off a poster
- シールを剥す: to peel off a sticker
- 包装紙を剥す: to remove wrapping paper
These collocations highlight the physical action of removing something stuck on a surface.
Nuances and Tips
When using 剥す, the focus is on the physical act of detaching something. It is different from 剥れる (はがれる), which is intransitive and means "to come off" by itself. Learners often confuse these two; remember 剥す is transitive (you do the action), while 剥れる is intransitive (it happens by itself).
Also, be careful not to confuse 剥す with 剥ぐ (はぐ), which can mean "to strip off clothes" or "to peel off skin" and often has a stronger or more forceful nuance.