Translation and Meaning of: 外す - hazusu

The Japanese word 外す (はずす, hazusu) is a versatile verb that appears in various contexts of everyday life and Japanese culture. Its primary meaning involves the idea of "removing," "disconnecting," or "taking something out of its place," but its applications go beyond the literal sense. In this article, we will explore the use of this word, its origin, practical examples, and even curiosities about how it is perceived in Japan.

If you are learning Japanese, understanding 外す can be useful in both informal conversations and more technical situations. Additionally, we will see how to memorize it effectively and in which situations it appears most frequently. Let's start by unveiling the meanings and uses of this word that is so prevalent in the language.

Meaning and uses of 外す (はずす)

The verb 外す carries the basic idea of removing something from its original place. It can be used both in a physical sense, such as taking an object off a shelf, and in an abstract sense, like leaving a group or shying away from a responsibility. For example, "眼鏡を外す" (megane o hazusu) means "to take off the glasses," while "予定から外す" (yotei kara hazusu) means "to remove from the plans."

In more specific contexts, 外す can also mean "to miss a target" or "to not hit." This usage is common in sports or competitive situations. Another interesting application appears in expressions like "話の流れを外す" (hanashi no nagare o hazusu), which refers to "losing the flow of the conversation," indicating an abrupt change of subject.

Origin and writing of the kanji 外す

The kanji 外, which makes up the word, means "outside" or "exterior." Its origin dates back to ancient China, where it represented the idea of something that is beyond the limits. The radical 夕 (yū) on the left symbolizes twilight, while the component 卜 (boku) on the right was associated with divination. Together, they conveyed the notion of something that is beyond the known or the expected.

In modern writing, 外 maintains this connection with the idea of exteriority. When combined with the verbal suffix す, it forms 外す, which carries the meaning of taking something out of its usual place. This construction is common in many Japanese verbs that express the action of removal or separation.

Tips for memorizing and using 外す

An effective way to memorize 外す is to associate it with concrete situations from daily life. Think of actions like taking off a phone case, removing a ring from your finger, or leaving a meeting. Creating personal sentences with these contexts helps to internalize the verb. Another tip is to contrast it with its opposite, 付ける (tsukeru, "to put on"), to form memorization pairs.

In everyday speech, 外す appears frequently in instructions, warnings, and descriptions of actions. Paying attention when you hear it in dramas, animes, or real conversations can accelerate learning. It's worth noting that, although it is a common verb, excessive use can sound mechanical - Japanese has various alternatives to express similar ideas depending on the context.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 外す

• 外す - basic form
• 外せる - Potential
• 外すな - imperative
• 外して - Shape Yourself
• 外した - Past
• 外している - Present progressive

Synonyms and similar words

• 外れる (hazureru) - Disconnect; leave the place.
• 外れ出す (hazuredasu) - Start to go out or disconnect.
• 取り外す (torihazusu) - Remove; take out.
• 解除する (kaijo suru) - Cancel; to release something that was trapped or blocked.
• 解体する (kaitai suru) - Dissolve; dismantle something, usually a structure.