Translation and Meaning of: 剥がす - hagasu

Etymology and Origin

The Japanese word 「剥がす」 (hagasu) is made up of two main elements: the kanji 「剥」 and the verb suffix 「がす」. The kanji 「剥」 carries the meaning of "peel" or "detach," an action closely related to removing something that is adhered. It suggests the idea of separating layers, as when one removes the skin from a fruit or peels off a sticker. The suffix 「がす」 is commonly used in transitive verbs in the Japanese language, indicating that the action is performed actively by someone.

Definition and Uses

The verb 「剥がす」 (hagasu) is used to describe the action of peeling off or removing something that is stuck or adhered. This term is applied in a variety of everyday contexts involving the removal of attached objects. For example, it can be used when taking a sticker off a surface or removing a price tag from a product. The versatility of the word allows its use in different situations, both in more practical contexts and in some more abstract ones, such as metaphorically "getting rid of" a layer or facade.

Cultural Context and Applications

In Japan, where the culture of packaging and stickers is strong, the verb 「剥がす」 plays an important role. Everyday life in Japan often presents scenarios where products come wrapped in layers of protection or labels that need to be removed before use. This cultural context of intense packaging makes understanding the verb essential for anyone living in or planning to visit Japan.

Radicals and Categorization

Radical of the kanji 「剥」: 刀, which suggests the use of a "knife" or "blade", symbolizing the idea of cutting or separating.
Grammatical category: Transitive Verb

Understanding the expression 「剥がす」 is not just a matter of translation, but of appreciating how everyday actions, such as peeling and unpeeling, are integrated into the language and local culture. The functionality of the verb illustrates a small yet intriguing facet of daily life, highlighting how language reflects specific cultural practices.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 剥がす

剥がせる - potencial
剥がせよう - Volitional
剥がせ - imperativo
剥がせない - negative

Synonyms and similar words

はがす (hagasu) - detach, release something (for example, a tag)
はがれる (hagareru) - to be detached, to be loose (related to the state of something that has been removed)
はぐ (hagu) - detach, pull from a surface (generally refers to removing something that is stuck)
はがし取る (hagashitoru) - remove with effort, carefully detach something