Translation and Meaning of: 超す - kosu

The Japanese word 超す[こす] is a verb that carries interesting meanings and various uses in everyday life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about this expression, understanding its context can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

In addition to being useful in everyday conversations, 超す[こす] appears in various contexts, from daily situations to more formal expressions. If you've ever wondered how to use it correctly or why it's written with the kanji 超, keep reading to discover all this and much more.

Meaning and usage of 超す [こす]

The verb 超す[こす] has the primary meaning of "to surpass" or "to exceed." It is often used to indicate that something goes beyond a physical or abstract limit. For example, it can be applied to describe temperatures that exceed a certain level, speeds above what is expected, or even expectations that are surpassed.

It is worth noting that 超す[こす] is not an extremely common verb in colloquial Japanese, but it appears somewhat frequently in more formal or written contexts. Its use is more specific than other similar verbs, such as 越える[こえる], which also means "to surpass," but with a slightly different nuance.

Origin and writing of the kanji 超

The kanji 超, which makes up the word 超す[こす], is formed by the radicals 走 (to run) and 召 (to call). This combination suggests the idea of "going beyond" or "surpassing," which perfectly aligns with the meaning of the verb. The origin of this kanji traces back to ancient Chinese, where it already carried the notion of overcoming.

It is interesting to note that 超 also appears in other Japanese words, such as 超過[ちょうか] (excess) and 超人[ちょうじん] (superman). This kanji is quite versatile, and that's why it's worth memorizing it to expand your knowledge of the Japanese language.

Tips for memorizing 超す[こす]

An effective way to fixate 超す[こす] is to associate it with situations where limits are exceeded. Think of examples like "surpassing a record" or "exceeding a budget." Creating simple sentences with this verb can help internalize its use naturally.

Another tip is to practice writing the kanji 超, paying attention to its radicals. Remember that the radical 走 is related to movement, while 召 conveys the idea of calling or summoning. This breakdown can make it easier to memorize both the kanji and the verb as a whole.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 超す

• 超す v. trans. - trans. v.
• 超える v. trans. - trans. v.
• 超せる v. potential
• 超した past
• 超すな v. imperative

Synonyms and similar words

• 超える (koeru) - Surpass (movement beyond a limit)
• 超過する (choukasu suru) - Surpass (in terms of quantity or limit)
• 上回る (uwamawaru) - Surpass (in terms of performance or quality)
• 逸脱する (itsudatsu suru) - Stray (to deviate from the established path or standard)
• 乗り越える (nori koeru) - Overcoming (obstacles or difficulties)

超す

Romaji: kosu
Kana: こす
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: pass through; to spend; to score

Meaning in English: to cross;to pass;to tide over

Definition: Much more than others. very big, amazing or wonderful.

Example Sentences - (超す) kosu

See below some example sentences:

彼の能力は私を超す。

Kare no nouryoku wa watashi wo kosu

His skill exceeds mine.

Your skill is super.

• 彼の - his
• 能力 - "habilidade, capacidade" = "skill, ability"
• は - Topic particle
• 私を - personal pronoun "I" + direct object particle
• 超す - verb "to exceed, to surpass"