Meaning and Usage
"洗濯" (せんたく) primarily means "washing" or "laundry," referring to the act of cleaning clothes or fabrics. It is a common noun and can be used both as a noun and in verb phrases with する (to do).
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in daily life when talking about household chores. It can refer to washing clothes by hand or using a washing machine.
Collocations and Patterns
- 洗濯をする: to do the laundry
- 洗濯機 (せんたくき): washing machine
- 洗濯物 (せんたくもの): laundry (clothes to be washed or already washed)
- 手で洗濯する: to wash by hand
Register and Politeness
"洗濯" is neutral and appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. When combined with する, it becomes a verb phrase used in everyday conversation.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "洗濯" with "掃除" (そうじ, cleaning), which refers to cleaning rooms or surfaces rather than washing clothes. Remember that "洗濯" specifically relates to washing fabrics.