Japanese word

消す

Pronunciation

Romajikesu

Meaning

  • verberase, turn off

Example

黒板の文字を消します。koku ban no moji o ke shi ma su

I erase the writing on the board.

Illustration for 消す (erase)

More examples

寝る前に電気を消します。ne ru mae ni den ki o ke shi ma su

I turn off the light before bed.

間違えた文字は、すぐに消します。ma chiga e ta moji wa su gu ni ke shi ma su

When I write a letter incorrectly, I erase it right away.

Core concept

It removes a mark, record, effect, or active state so that the target is no longer present or operating.

Common phrases

  • 文字を消すmoji o ke su

    erase writing

  • 間違いを消すma chiga i o ke su

    erase a mistake

Similar words

消去するshōkyosuru: To remove written marks or stored information completely.
削除するsakujosuru: To remove text, files, or other stored data from a record or system.
拭き取るfukitoru: To remove a mark or substance by wiping its surface.

Definition in Japanese

文字や記録などを取り除き、明かりや機器などの働きを止め、対象をない状態にする。moji ya ki roku na do o to ri nozo ki a ka ri ya ki ki na do no hatara ki o to me tai shō o na i jō tai ni su ru

Word origin

消す (kesu) is a native Japanese verb related to 消える (kieru), "to disappear"; it expresses causing something to disappear or stop.

Usage tips

  • English distinguishes erase, delete, turn off, and cross out, but Japanese often uses 消す (kesu) across these contexts, with the object showing which action is meant.

Other meanings

  • deleteverb
  • cross outverb
  • extinguishverb

Opposites

Related words

  • 消し方keshikataway of erasingnoun

Word lists with this word