Meaning and Usage
"灰皿" (はいざら) means "ashtray" in Japanese. It is a common noun used to refer to a container where smokers put cigarette ashes and butts.
Common Contexts
You will often see 灰皿 in places where smoking is allowed, such as smoking areas, bars, or homes of smokers. It is a practical item and often mentioned when discussing smoking etiquette or cleanliness.
Collocations and Patterns
- 灰皿を使う (use an ashtray): Refers to the act of putting ashes or cigarette butts into the ashtray.
- 灰皿を置く (place an ashtray): Used when setting an ashtray somewhere, often in public or private spaces.
- 灰皿を片付ける (clean up the ashtray): Refers to emptying or cleaning the ashtray.
Register and Politeness
The word 灰皿 is neutral and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. When giving instructions involving 灰皿, polite forms are often used, especially in public or service settings.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 灰皿 with 煙草 (たばこ, tobacco/cigarette) or 喫煙所 (きつえんじょ, smoking area). Remember 灰皿 specifically refers to the ashtray, not the cigarette or the place where smoking is allowed.