🇯🇵 How to say

“to wash” in Japanese

洗うあらう
Illustration of "to wash" in a Japanese cultural setting
A young woman stands at her kitchen sink, scrubbing a bright red apple under running water. Bubbles cling to the fruit's skin as she turns it over in her hands, ensuring it's clean before taking a bite.

Usage note

洗う is a common verb for cleaning things with water, from your hands to clothes. It's neutral and used in everyday situations, just like 'wash' in English.

Examples

  • 毎朝、顔を洗います。

    I wash my face every morning.

  • 食器を洗ってください。

    Please wash the dishes.

  • 車を洗いました。

    I washed the car.

Quick check

What does "洗う" mean?

  • A. to wash
  • B. to start
  • C. to cook
  • D. to laugh

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