Meaning and Usage
The verb 放す (はなす) primarily means "to let go," "to release," or "to separate." It is often used when physically releasing something or someone, such as letting go of a hand or releasing an animal.
Common Contexts
You will frequently hear 放す in everyday situations involving physical contact, like holding hands or releasing objects. It can also be used metaphorically but is less common in that sense.
Collocations and Patterns
- 手を放す (てをはなす): to let go of someone's hand — used when describing physical release.
- 鳥を放す (とりをはなす): to release a bird — common in contexts involving freeing animals.
- 怒って手を放す (おこっててをはなす): to let go in anger — shows emotional context affecting the action.
Register and Politeness
放す is a neutral verb and can be used in both casual and polite speech, depending on the sentence ending and context.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 放す (はなす) with 離す (はなす), which also means "to separate." 放す often implies physically letting go or releasing, while 離す can mean to keep distance or separate more abstractly. Pay attention to context to choose the correct kanji and nuance.