🇯🇵 How to say

“to sing” in Japanese

歌ううたう
Illustration of "to sing" in a Japanese cultural setting
A woman stands on a small stage in a cozy cafe, holding a microphone as she sings a gentle ballad to a small, attentive audience. Soft lighting illuminates her face, and her eyes are closed in concentration.

Usage note

歌う is a common verb used for singing anything from a song in a concert to humming a tune. It's neutral and can be used in both casual and formal situations, just like 'to sing' in English.

Examples

  • 私はよくシャワーで歌います。

    I often sing in the shower.

  • 彼女はきれいな声で歌う。

    She sings with a beautiful voice.

  • 子供たちが一緒に歌っている。

    The children are singing together.

Quick check

What does "歌う" mean?

  • A. to sing
  • B. to enter
  • C. to dance
  • D. to ask

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