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B1 noun #3,000 am häufigsten 11 Min. Lesezeit

清掃

seisou
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At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to navigate the Japanese language. While '清掃' (seisou) might seem a bit advanced for absolute beginners who are usually taught '掃除' (souji) first, it is an essential survival word. Beginners will primarily encounter this word visually rather than using it in conversation. When traveling in Japan, using public restrooms, or staying in hotels, the sign '清掃中' (seisouchuu - cleaning in progress) is ubiquitous. Recognizing the kanji or knowing the pronunciation helps beginners understand why a facility might be temporarily closed or why a hotel maid is in the hallway. At this stage, the focus is purely on recognition and understanding the basic meaning of 'cleaning' in a public context. Teachers should emphasize that while 'souji' is for their own room, 'seisou' is what the hotel staff does. This distinction helps build a foundational understanding of Japanese social registers and the importance of public hygiene in the culture.
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As learners progress to the A2 level, they start to form simple sentences and engage in basic daily interactions. Here, '清掃' becomes more relevant for reading comprehension and basic communication, especially in travel or part-time job contexts. A2 learners might need to understand hotel instructions, such as '清掃は不要です' (seisou wa fuyou desu - no cleaning needed) when they want to hang a 'Do Not Disturb' sign. They might also see job postings for '清掃スタッフ' (seisou sutaffu) if they are looking for part-time work as a student in Japan. The grammar at this level involves using the word as a simple noun or with the verb 'する' (suru). Learners should practice distinguishing it from '掃除' in simple contexts, understanding that '清掃' is the formal, professional equivalent. Role-playing hotel check-ins or reading simple public notices are excellent ways to practice this vocabulary at the A2 stage.
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At the B1 level, learners are expected to handle a wider variety of situations and understand more nuanced vocabulary. '清掃' is officially categorized around this level because learners are now interacting more deeply with Japanese society. They can read public announcements, understand automated voice messages in stations ('ただいま清掃を行っております'), and write simple requests or complaints regarding cleanliness. B1 learners should master the collocations associated with the word, such as '清掃員' (seisouin - cleaner) and '定期清掃' (teiki seisou - regular cleaning). They should also be comfortable using more formal verbs with it, transitioning from '清掃をする' to '清掃を行う'. Understanding the cultural context—why public spaces in Japan are so clean and the respect afforded to cleaning staff—becomes an important part of language acquisition at this stage. Learners can discuss environmental topics, volunteering for '街頭清掃' (street cleaning), and the differences in cleaning habits between their home country and Japan.
B2 learners are capable of expressing themselves clearly and in detail on a wide range of subjects. At this level, '清掃' is used in more complex, professional, and abstract contexts. Learners might encounter the word in business emails, building management notices, or news articles about waste management and public sanitation. They should be able to discuss the logistics of cleaning, such as '清掃業者に委託する' (to outsource to a cleaning contractor) or '清掃費用を見積もる' (to estimate cleaning costs). The vocabulary expands to include related terms like '清掃工場' (garbage incineration plant) and '清掃活動' (cleaning activities/campaigns). B2 learners should also be aware of the 5S methodology used in Japanese businesses, where '清掃' is a key component of workplace efficiency. They can write essays or give presentations on the societal impact of cleanliness, the labor conditions of '清掃員', and the environmental policies of local governments.
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At the C1 level, learners possess a high degree of fluency and can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts. The use of '清掃' at this stage involves sophisticated professional communication, legal or administrative documents, and nuanced social commentary. C1 learners might read municipal guidelines on '一般廃棄物処理と清掃' (general waste disposal and sanitation) or analyze corporate sustainability reports detailing '環境清掃活動' (environmental cleaning initiatives). They can engage in debates about the privatization of public cleaning services or the societal expectations placed on citizens to maintain public order. The vocabulary becomes highly specialized, involving terms like '特殊清掃' (specialized cleaning, often referring to cleaning after a death or severe hoarding) or '管内清掃' (cleaning within a specific jurisdiction or pipe network). Mastery at this level means using the word effortlessly in formal writing, understanding its implications in policy-making, and recognizing its metaphorical uses in literature or journalism.
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C2 is the level of near-native proficiency. Learners at this stage understand almost everything they read or hear and can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely. For a C2 learner, '清掃' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a concept deeply integrated into their understanding of Japanese societal structures, history, and psychology. They can read academic papers on the history of sanitation in Japan, understanding how the concept of '清掃' evolved from Shinto purification rituals to modern municipal waste management. They can appreciate the subtle differences between '清掃', '浄化', and '衛生' in complex legal or philosophical texts. In professional settings, a C2 user can draft comprehensive facility management contracts, negotiate with '清掃業者' using high-level business Japanese, and seamlessly adjust their register when discussing cleaning with a CEO versus a frontline worker. They understand the unspoken cultural rules surrounding cleanliness and can articulate these nuances eloquently in both written and spoken Japanese.
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清掃 in 30 Sekunden

  • Refers to thorough, professional, or public cleaning rather than casual tidying.
  • Frequently seen on signs as 清掃中 (seisouchuu), meaning 'cleaning in progress'.
  • Used in job titles like 清掃員 (seisouin) for janitors or custodial staff.
  • A key component of the 5S workplace organization methodology in Japan.

The Japanese word 清掃 (せいそう - seisou) refers to the act of cleaning a place thoroughly. Unlike the more common word 掃除 (souji), which can be used for everyday tidying up around the house, 清掃 carries a much more formal, professional, or communal nuance. It is the word you will see on signs in public restrooms, in hotels, on professional cleaning service vehicles, and in corporate environments. The kanji characters themselves provide a deep insight into the word's meaning. The first character, 清 (sei), means 'pure' or 'clean,' and is often associated with water and purification rituals in Japanese culture. The second character, 掃 (sou), means 'to sweep' or 'to brush away.' Together, they imply not just a superficial tidying, but a thorough purification and sweeping away of dirt, dust, and impurities to restore a space to a pristine state. Understanding this word is crucial for anyone living in or visiting Japan, as it appears frequently in daily life, especially in public spaces. When you see a sign that says 清掃中 (seisouchuu), it means 'Cleaning in progress,' and it is a polite request to either wait or use another facility. The concept of cleaning in Japan goes beyond mere hygiene; it is deeply tied to respect for others, mindfulness, and maintaining harmony in shared spaces. This is why students in Japanese schools participate in daily cleaning activities, a practice that instills a sense of responsibility and equality from a young age. While students might use the word 掃除 for their daily tasks, the overarching concept of maintaining public and professional spaces is perfectly encapsulated by 清掃. In a business context, a 清掃会社 (seisou gaisha) is a professional cleaning company, and their staff are highly respected for their meticulous work, such as the famous '7-minute miracle' performed by the cleaning crews of the Shinkansen (bullet trains). Therefore, mastering the usage of 清掃 allows learners to navigate public spaces more effectively and appreciate the cultural significance of cleanliness in Japanese society.

Kanji Breakdown: 清
Means 'pure' or 'clean'. Found in words like 清潔 (seiketsu - hygiene) and 清水 (kiyomizu - pure water).
Kanji Breakdown: 掃
Means 'to sweep'. Found in words like 掃除 (souji - cleaning) and 一掃 (issou - sweeping away).
Nuance
Professional, thorough, and often public or communal cleaning, as opposed to casual personal tidying.

ただいまトイレの清掃中です。

The restroom is currently being cleaned.

駅の清掃員は毎日一生懸命働いています。

The station cleaners work hard every day.

このビルは定期的に清掃が行われています。

This building is cleaned regularly.

年末にはオフィス全体の大清掃をします。

At the end of the year, we do a major cleaning of the entire office.

道路の清掃活動に参加しました。

I participated in the street cleaning activity.

Using 清掃 (seisou) correctly requires an understanding of its formal and professional register. As a noun, it can be used independently, but it is most commonly paired with the verb する (suru) to form the verbal noun 清掃する (seisou suru), meaning 'to clean.' However, in everyday conversation, you are more likely to encounter it as a compound noun or in passive constructions. For example, you will frequently see the suffix 中 (chuu) attached to it, creating 清掃中 (seisouchuu), which translates to 'cleaning in progress.' This is a ubiquitous sign in Japan, placed in front of restrooms, escalators, or hotel rooms to indicate that maintenance staff are currently at work. Another common usage is with the word 員 (in), meaning 'member' or 'personnel,' to form 清掃員 (seisouin), which refers to a professional cleaner or janitor. When discussing the scheduling or management of cleaning, words like 清掃作業 (seisou sagyou - cleaning work) or 清掃時間 (seisou jikan - cleaning time) are frequently employed. It is also important to note the grammatical particles used with 清掃. When specifying what is being cleaned, the particle の (no) is used to link the location to the action, as in トイレの清掃 (toire no seisou - cleaning of the toilet) or 部屋の清掃 (heya no seisou - cleaning of the room). If you are using it as a verb, the object particle を (o) is used: ビルを清掃する (biru o seisou suru - to clean the building). In business emails or formal announcements, you might see polite prefixes or honorific language surrounding the word, such as 清掃を行っております (seisou o okonatte orimasu - we are currently conducting cleaning). Understanding these collocations and grammatical structures will significantly enhance your ability to read signs, understand public announcements, and communicate effectively in professional or formal settings in Japan. Remember that while 掃除 is your go-to word for casual, daily cleaning, 清掃 is your key to understanding the structured, professional maintenance of the public and corporate spheres.

Verb Form
清掃する (seisou suru) - to perform a thorough/professional cleaning.
Common Compound
清掃中 (seisouchuu) - cleaning in progress. Extremely common on signs.
Job Title
清掃員 (seisouin) - cleaner, janitor, custodial staff.

ホテルの部屋を清掃する。

To clean the hotel room.

現在、エスカレーターの清掃を行っております。

We are currently cleaning the escalator.

清掃用具はあちらのロッカーにあります。

The cleaning equipment is in that locker over there.

地域のボランティアで海岸の清掃をした。

I cleaned the beach as a local volunteer.

エアコンの内部清掃を業者に依頼した。

I requested a contractor to clean the inside of the air conditioner.

The word 清掃 (seisou) is deeply embedded in the public and professional landscape of Japan, making it a word you will encounter frequently, even if you don't use it in daily casual conversation. One of the most common places you will see this word is on physical signs. If you walk into a train station, a department store, or a public park, you are highly likely to spot a yellow caution cone or a standing sign that reads 清掃中 (seisouchuu - cleaning in progress). This is a polite but firm indication that the area is temporarily closed or requires caution due to wet floors. You will also hear it in public address announcements. For instance, in large shopping malls or airports, an automated voice might announce, 'ただいま、トイレの清掃を行っております' (Tadaima, toire no seisou o okonatte orimasu - We are currently cleaning the restrooms). In the context of travel and accommodation, 清掃 is a critical vocabulary word. Hotel guests will find placards in their rooms regarding 清掃時間 (seisou jikan - cleaning times) or options to opt out of daily cleaning for eco-friendly purposes (清掃不要 - seisou fuyou - no cleaning needed). If you are looking for part-time work in Japan, you will frequently see job advertisements for 清掃スタッフ (seisou sutaffu - cleaning staff) or 清掃員 (seisouin - cleaner). These roles are vital to maintaining the high standards of cleanliness that Japan is famous for globally. Furthermore, in corporate environments, building management companies will send notices about 定期清掃 (teiki seisou - regular cleaning) or 窓ガラス清掃 (madogarasu seisou - window cleaning), advising tenants of upcoming maintenance schedules. Even in the realm of civic duty, local municipalities organize 街頭清掃 (gaitou seisou - street cleaning) events where citizens volunteer to pick up litter. In all these contexts, the word conveys a sense of organized, systematic, and professional effort to maintain hygiene and order. By recognizing this word, you not only navigate physical spaces more safely and respectfully but also gain a deeper appreciation for the invisible labor that keeps Japanese society running smoothly and beautifully.

Public Restrooms
Signs indicating that the facility is temporarily closed for maintenance.
Hotels
Door tags and information booklets regarding room make-up services.
Job Postings
Advertisements for custodial, janitorial, or housekeeping staff.

明日の午前中はビルの外壁清掃があります。

There will be cleaning of the building's exterior walls tomorrow morning.

エコプランのため、滞在中の客室清掃は行いません。

Due to the eco-plan, room cleaning will not be performed during your stay.

駅構内の清掃にご協力ください。

Please cooperate with keeping the station premises clean.

彼は夜間清掃のアルバイトをしている。

He works a part-time job doing night cleaning.

公園の清掃活動は毎月第一日曜日に実施されます。

The park cleaning activity is held on the first Sunday of every month.

When learning Japanese, a very common pitfall for students is confusing 清掃 (seisou) with 掃除 (souji). Because both words translate to 'cleaning' in English dictionaries, learners often assume they are perfectly interchangeable. However, using them in the wrong context can sound unnatural or overly dramatic. The most frequent mistake is using 清掃 to describe casual, everyday chores at home. For example, if you want to say 'I cleaned my room today,' you should say '今日、部屋の掃除をした' (Kyou, heya no souji o shita). If you were to say '今日、部屋の清掃をした' (Kyou, heya no seisou o shita), it sounds as though you hired a professional crew, used industrial-grade chemicals, and conducted a massive, systematic decontamination of your bedroom. It sounds too formal and stiff for a personal living space. Conversely, using 掃除 in highly formal or professional contexts can sometimes sound a bit too casual, though it is less jarring than the reverse mistake. For instance, a professional cleaning company would advertise their services as 清掃サービス (seisou saabisu), not 掃除サービス (souji saabisu). Another mistake involves collocations. While you can use both with the verb する (suru - to do), 清掃 is often paired with more formal verbs like 行う (okonau - to conduct/carry out) in business contexts. Saying '清掃をします' (seisou o shimasu) is fine, but '清掃を行います' (seisou o okonaimasu) sounds much more professional for announcements. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 清掃 with 片付け (kataduke), which means 'tidying up' or 'putting things away.' If your room is messy because there are clothes and books everywhere, you need to do 片付け. If the floor is covered in dust and dirt, you need to do 掃除. If you are sterilizing a hospital ward, you are doing 清掃. Understanding these boundaries is key to natural Japanese expression.

Mistake: Over-formality
Using 清掃 for simple daily chores at home instead of 掃除.
Mistake: Confusing with Tidying
Using 清掃 when you just mean putting items back in their proper place (片付け).
Mistake: Wrong Verb Pairing
Failing to use formal verbs like 行う when making public announcements about 清掃.

❌ 週末は自分のアパートを清掃します。
⭕ 週末は自分のアパートを掃除します。

I clean my apartment on weekends. (Use souji for personal spaces)

❌ 机の上を清掃して。
⭕ 机の上を片付けて。

Tidy up your desk. (Use kataduke for organizing clutter)

❌ 当ホテルでは毎日お部屋の掃除を行います。
⭕ 当ホテルでは毎日お部屋の清掃を行います。

Our hotel cleans the rooms daily. (Use seisou for professional services)

❌ トイレは今掃除中です。
⭕ トイレはただいま清掃中です。

The restroom is currently being cleaned. (Standard phrasing for signs)

❌ 彼は掃除員として働いている。
⭕ 彼は清掃員として働いている。

He works as a cleaner. (Standard job title)

To fully grasp the nuance of 清掃 (seisou), it is helpful to compare it with other Japanese words related to cleaning, tidying, and purifying. The most direct synonym is 掃除 (souji), which we have already discussed extensively. 掃除 is the umbrella term for cleaning, encompassing everything from sweeping the floor to wiping windows, mostly used in domestic or casual contexts. Another related word is 片付け (kataduke), which translates to 'tidying up' or 'organizing.' This involves putting things away, organizing clutter, and making a space neat, but it does not necessarily involve removing dirt or dust. If you spill coffee on the floor, you need to do 掃除, not 片付け. Moving into more specialized vocabulary, we have 洗浄 (senjou), which means 'washing' or 'cleaning with liquid.' This is often used for medical equipment, industrial machinery, or contact lenses. You wouldn't use 洗浄 for a room, but you would use it for a specific object that needs to be washed thoroughly. Another related concept is 浄化 (jouka), which means 'purification.' This word has a more abstract, chemical, or spiritual nuance. For example, water purification plants use this term, and it can also be used metaphorically to describe purifying one's soul or an organization. Finally, there is 整理 (seiri), which means 'sorting' or 'arranging.' This is often paired with 整頓 (seiton - keeping things in order) in the famous 5S methodology used in Japanese workplaces (Seiri, Seiton, Seisou, Seiketsu, Shitsuke). In this context, 清掃 (Seisou) is the third step: shining or sweeping the workplace to ensure it is clean and safe. By understanding these distinctions, you can choose the exact right word for the type of cleaning or organizing you are describing, demonstrating a high level of proficiency and cultural awareness in Japanese.

掃除 (Souji)
General cleaning, everyday chores. The most common word for cleaning.
片付け (Kataduke)
Tidying up, organizing clutter, putting things back in their place.
洗浄 (Senjou)
Washing, rinsing, cleaning with water or chemicals (often for objects/machinery).

部屋の掃除が終わったら、机の上の片付けをしてください。

After you finish cleaning the room, please tidy up the top of the desk.

この機械は使用後に必ず洗浄する必要があります。

This machine must be washed after use.

空気清浄機で室内の空気を浄化する。

Purify the indoor air with an air purifier.

資料の整理が終わらないと帰れません。

I can't go home until I finish organizing the documents.

工場の5S活動では、清掃が非常に重要視されています。

In the factory's 5S activities, cleaning is highly emphasized.

How Formal Is It?

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + 中 (Action in progress)

Noun + を行う (Formal way to say 'to do')

Passive voice (清掃される - to be cleaned)

Causative-Passive (清掃させられる - to be made to clean)

Noun modification (清掃の行き届いた部屋 - a well-cleaned room)

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Beispiele nach Niveau

1

トイレは清掃中です。

The restroom is being cleaned.

Noun + 中 (chuu) indicates an action in progress.

2

清掃のスタッフです。

I am the cleaning staff.

Noun + の + Noun to link two nouns.

3

ホテルの清掃。

Hotel cleaning.

Basic noun phrase.

4

清掃をします。

I will do the cleaning.

Noun + を + します (polite verb).

5

清掃はいつですか。

When is the cleaning?

Question word いつ (when).

6

清掃員がいます。

There is a cleaner.

Existence verb います for people.

7

清掃をお願いします。

Please clean (my room).

Noun + をお願いします for polite requests.

8

清掃が終わりました。

The cleaning is finished.

Verb 終わる (to finish) in past tense.

1

明日は部屋の清掃があります。

There will be room cleaning tomorrow.

Use of あります for scheduled events.

2

清掃のアルバイトを探しています。

I am looking for a part-time cleaning job.

Verb 探す (to look for) in present continuous form.

3

清掃中なので、入れません。

Because it is being cleaned, you cannot enter.

Reason particle なので + potential negative verb.

4

このビルは清掃が行き届いています。

This building is well-cleaned (cleaning is thorough).

Idiomatic expression 行き届く (to be thorough/meticulous).

5

清掃用具を片付けてください。

Please put away the cleaning tools.

Te-form + ください for requests.

6

毎日、公園の清掃をしています。

I clean the park every day.

Habitual action using しています.

7

清掃係の人に聞いてみましょう。

Let's ask the person in charge of cleaning.

Volitional form + ましょう (let's).

8

清掃が終わるまで待ってください。

Please wait until the cleaning is finished.

まで (until) + verb.

1

定期清掃のため、エレベーターが一時停止します。

The elevator will temporarily stop due to regular cleaning.

Noun + のため indicates reason/cause in formal contexts.

2

地域の清掃活動にボランティアとして参加した。

I participated in the local cleaning activity as a volunteer.

Verb 参加する (to participate) takes the particle に.

3

清掃業者にオフィスのカーペットのクリーニングを依頼した。

We requested a cleaning company to clean the office carpets.

依頼する (to request) takes に for the recipient and を for the object.

4

新幹線の清掃員の手際の良さに驚かされた。

I was amazed by the efficiency of the Shinkansen cleaners.

Passive form 驚かされる (to be surprised/amazed by).

5

年末の大清掃で、不要な書類をすべて処分しました。

During the year-end major cleaning, we disposed of all unnecessary documents.

Compound noun 大清掃 (major cleaning).

6

清掃が行き届いていないホテルには泊まりたくない。

I don't want to stay in a hotel where the cleaning is not thorough.

Relative clause modifying ホテル.

7

お客様が快適に過ごせるよう、常に清掃を心がけています。

We always keep cleaning in mind so that guests can spend their time comfortably.

ように (so that) + 心がける (to keep in mind/strive for).

8

道路清掃車が毎朝この道を走っている。

A street sweeper vehicle drives down this road every morning.

Specific vocabulary: 道路清掃車 (street sweeper).

1

当ビルでは、環境に配慮した洗剤を使用して清掃を行っております。

In this building, we conduct cleaning using eco-friendly detergents.

Formal verb 行っております (humble form of 行う).

2

清掃業務を外部の専門業者に委託することで、コスト削減を図る。

We aim to reduce costs by outsourcing cleaning operations to an external specialized company.

Verb 委託する (to outsource/entrust) + ことで (by doing).

3

工場内の5S活動において、清掃は安全確保の基本である。

In the factory's 5S activities, cleaning is the foundation of ensuring safety.

において (in/regarding) used in formal contexts.

4

特殊清掃の現場は、精神的にも肉体的にも過酷な労働環境だ。

The site of specialized cleaning is a harsh working environment, both mentally and physically.

Vocabulary: 特殊清掃 (specialized/trauma cleaning).

5

住民の高齢化に伴い、地域の共同清掃への参加者が減少している。

With the aging of the residents, the number of participants in the community's joint cleaning is decreasing.

に伴い (along with / as a consequence of).

6

美観を維持するため、窓ガラスの清掃は月に一度実施される。

To maintain the aesthetic appearance, window glass cleaning is carried out once a month.

Passive verb 実施される (to be implemented/carried out).

7

清掃員の待遇改善を求めるストライキが一部の駅で発生した。

A strike demanding improved working conditions for cleaners occurred at some stations.

Noun modification: 待遇改善を求める (demanding improved conditions).

8

感染症対策として、手すりやドアノブの消毒を伴う清掃が強化された。

As a countermeasure against infectious diseases, cleaning accompanied by the disinfection of handrails and doorknobs has been strengthened.

伴う (accompanied by / involving) modifying a noun.

1

廃棄物処理法に基づき、市町村は一般廃棄物の処理及び清掃に関する計画を策定しなければならない。

Based on the Waste Management Law, municipalities must formulate plans regarding the disposal and cleaning of general waste.

Legal terminology and grammar: に基づき (based on), 及び (and), ねばならない (must).

2

清掃事業の民営化は、サービスの質を向上させる一方で、労働環境の悪化を招くという指摘もある。

There are points made that while the privatization of cleaning services improves service quality, it also leads to a deterioration of the working environment.

一方で (on the other hand / while) contrasting two ideas.

3

その企業は、社会的責任の一環として、発展途上国での水質浄化と衛生清掃プロジェクトに資金を提供している。

As part of its social responsibility, the company funds water purification and sanitary cleaning projects in developing countries.

の一環として (as part of).

4

歴史的建造物の修復においては、素材を傷めない極めて繊細な清掃技術が要求される。

In the restoration of historical buildings, extremely delicate cleaning techniques that do not damage the materials are required.

においては (in the case of / regarding) + Passive 要求される.

5

彼は清掃という行為を通じて、自己の内面と向き合い、精神的な修養を積んでいるのだ。

Through the act of cleaning, he faces his inner self and accumulates spiritual discipline.

を通じて (through / via) expressing a medium or process.

6

管路内の高圧洗浄清掃により、長年蓄積したスケールが完全に除去された。

Through high-pressure washing and cleaning inside the pipelines, the scale accumulated over many years was completely removed.

Technical vocabulary: 高圧洗浄 (high-pressure washing), スケール (scale/buildup).

7

都市の景観を損ねる落書きの清掃には、多額の税金が投入されているのが現状である。

The current reality is that a large amount of tax money is being invested in cleaning up graffiti that ruins the city's landscape.

のが現状である (the current situation is that...).

8

清掃業務委託契約書における免責事項の解釈を巡り、両社間で意見の対立が生じた。

A conflict of opinion arose between the two companies over the interpretation of the exemption clauses in the cleaning service outsourcing contract.

を巡り (concerning / over) used for disputes or discussions.

1

神道における「清き明き心」の概念は、物理的な清掃行為と精神的な浄化が不可分であることを示唆している。

The concept of a 'pure and bright heart' in Shinto suggests that the physical act of cleaning and spiritual purification are inseparable.

Academic/philosophical structure: 不可分である (inseparable) + ことを示唆している (suggests that).

2

近代都市の形成過程において、スラム街の強制的な清掃と区画整理は、公衆衛生の名を借りた社会的排除の側面を持っていた。

In the process of modern city formation, the forced cleaning and rezoning of slums had an aspect of social exclusion under the guise of public health.

Complex historical analysis: 名を借りた (under the guise of).

3

放射能汚染地域の除染作業は、単なる清掃の域を超え、国家規模の環境再生プロジェクトとして位置づけられている。

The decontamination work in radioactively contaminated areas goes beyond the realm of mere cleaning and is positioned as a national-scale environmental regeneration project.

の域を超え (goes beyond the realm of) + 位置づけられている (is positioned as).

4

清掃労働者の不可視化は、彼らの労働価値を不当に低く見積もる現代資本主義の構造的欠陥を浮き彫りにしている。

The invisibilization of cleaning workers highlights a structural flaw in modern capitalism that unfairly underestimates the value of their labor.

Sociological critique: 不可視化 (invisibilization), 浮き彫りにする (to highlight/bring into relief).

5

その文学作品では、主人公が執拗に部屋を清掃する描写が、彼の内なる罪悪感と強迫観念のメタファーとして機能している。

In that literary work, the depiction of the protagonist obsessively cleaning his room functions as a metaphor for his inner guilt and obsession.

Literary analysis: メタファーとして機能している (functions as a metaphor).

6

微小重力環境下である国際宇宙ステーションにおける清掃プロトコルは、地上とは全く異なる流体力学的アプローチを必要とする。

The cleaning protocols on the International Space Station, which is in a microgravity environment, require a completely different fluid dynamics approach from that on Earth.

Scientific terminology: 微小重力環境下 (under microgravity environment), 流体力学的 (fluid dynamics).

7

遺品整理を伴う特殊清掃の現場には、人間の生と死の生々しい痕跡が残されており、作業員には高度な倫理観が求められる。

The sites of specialized cleaning involving the sorting of deceased persons' belongings leave vivid traces of human life and death, requiring a high level of ethical awareness from the workers.

Profound descriptive language: 生々しい痕跡 (vivid traces), 倫理観 (ethical awareness).

8

AI搭載型清掃ロボットの自律的群制御アルゴリズムの最適化により、大規模商業施設の清掃効率は飛躍的に向上した。

Through the optimization of the autonomous swarm control algorithms of AI-equipped cleaning robots, the cleaning efficiency of large-scale commercial facilities has improved dramatically.

Advanced technical phrasing: 自律的群制御 (autonomous swarm control), 飛躍的に (dramatically/by leaps and bounds).

Synonyme

掃除 美化 クリーンアップ 洗浄

Gegenteile

汚染 放置

Häufige Kollokationen

清掃中
清掃員
定期清掃
清掃活動
清掃業者
清掃用具
清掃工場
清掃業務
大清掃
特殊清掃

Häufige Phrasen

清掃を行う
清掃が行き届く
清掃を依頼する
清掃に入る
清掃を済ませる
清掃にご協力ください
清掃が行き届いている
清掃を怠る
清掃を徹底する
清掃を外注する

Wird oft verwechselt mit

清掃 vs 掃除 (souji - general cleaning)

清掃 vs 片付け (kataduke - tidying up)

清掃 vs 洗濯 (sentaku - laundry)

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"一掃する"
"掃き溜めに鶴"
"掃いて捨てるほど"
"清濁併せ呑む"
"清廉潔白"
"心身の浄化"
"塵も積もれば山となる"
"立つ鳥跡を濁さず"
"掃討作戦"
"一掃の機運"

Leicht verwechselbar

清掃 vs

清掃 vs

清掃 vs

清掃 vs

清掃 vs

Satzmuster

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So verwendest du es

nuance

Implies a higher standard of cleanliness, often involving professional tools or systematic processes.

frequency

Very high in written public notices, moderate in spoken conversation.

colloquialisms

None. It is strictly a formal/standard word.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 清掃 for daily household chores instead of 掃除.
  • Confusing 清掃 (cleaning dirt) with 片付け (organizing clutter).
  • Using casual verbs like やる with 清掃 in formal announcements instead of 行う.
  • Mispronouncing the long vowels (saying 'seso' instead of 'seisou').
  • Writing the kanji incorrectly (e.g., confusing 掃 with 帰).

Tipps

Formal Contexts

Always use 清掃 instead of 掃除 in business emails, official documents, or when making public announcements. It elevates your Japanese and shows professionalism. Using 掃除 in a corporate contract would look amateurish. Remember that register matters greatly in Japanese.

Spiritual Roots

The concept of cleanliness in Japan is tied to Shinto beliefs where physical dirt (kegare) is linked to spiritual impurity. When you see meticulous 清掃 in public spaces, recognize it as a modern extension of this cultural desire for purity and harmony. It's more than just hygiene.

Navigating Stations

Keep an eye out for yellow cones or signs saying 清掃中 in train stations. If a restroom has this sign, it's polite to use a different one if possible, rather than walking in on the cleaner. Respecting their workspace is appreciated.

Kanji Clues

Look at the radicals in the kanji. 清 has the water radical (氵), indicating washing or purity. 掃 has the hand radical (扌), indicating the physical action of sweeping. Recognizing these radicals helps you remember the meaning and write the word correctly.

Noun Modification

Use the phrase '清掃が行き届いている' (seisou ga ikitodoite iru) to describe a place that is immaculately clean. It literally means 'the cleaning has reached every corner.' This is a very natural, high-level phrase to compliment a hotel or restaurant.

The 5S Methodology

If you work in a Japanese company or a manufacturing environment, memorize the 5S terms: 整理, 整頓, 清掃, 清潔, 躾. Knowing that 清掃 is the third step (Shine/Clean) will impress your Japanese colleagues and show you understand their corporate culture.

Part-time Work

If you are a student looking for a part-time job (baito) in Japan, searching for '清掃スタッフ' will yield many results. These jobs often require minimal Japanese speaking skills, making them good starter jobs for language learners.

Pairing with Verbs

While '清掃をする' is grammatically correct, '清掃を行う' (seisou o okonau) or '清掃を実施する' (seisou o jisshi suru) sounds much more natural in announcements or formal writing. Upgrade your verbs to match the formality of the noun.

Community Service

Participating in a '清掃活動' (seisou katsudou - cleaning activity) is a fantastic way to integrate into a Japanese community. Local neighborhoods often organize these on weekends. It's a great opportunity to practice Japanese and make local friends.

Not for Clutter

Remember that 清掃 is for removing dirt, dust, and grime. If a room is just messy with clothes and books everywhere, you need to do 片付け (kataduke - tidying), not 清掃. Don't mix up organizing clutter with sanitizing a space.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Say 'so' (seisou) clean! Imagine a professional cleaner saying 'It is SO clean' after sweeping a public space.

Wortherkunft

Sino-Japanese (On'yomi)

Kultureller Kontext

Japanese schools do not employ janitors for classrooms; students perform 'souji' daily to learn responsibility.

The rapid, precise cleaning of bullet trains at terminal stations is famously called the '7-minute miracle' or 'Shinkansen Theater'.

Unlike in some cultures where cleaning might be seen as lowly work, maintaining cleanliness is highly valued in Japan, and cleaning staff are respected for their contribution to society.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"日本の駅がいつもきれいなのは、清掃員のおかげですね。"

"ホテルに泊まるとき、毎日清掃を頼みますか？"

"地域の清掃活動に参加したことがありますか？"

"年末の大清掃はもう終わりましたか？"

"清掃ロボットを家で使っていますか？"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe a time you participated in a community cleaning activity.

How does the concept of cleaning in Japan differ from your home country?

Write a short story from the perspective of a night-shift cleaner in a large office building.

Discuss the environmental impact of modern cleaning chemicals.

Explain the 5S methodology and how you could apply it to your own life.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Generally, no. It sounds too formal and industrial. For everyday household chores, use 掃除 (souji). If you hired a professional deep-cleaning service for your house, you might use 清掃, but it's still more common to use 掃除 or クリーニング. Stick to 掃除 for personal spaces.

It means 'Cleaning in progress.' You will see this on yellow signs in front of public restrooms, escalators, or hotel rooms. It is a polite way of saying the area is temporarily closed or that you should be careful of wet floors. If you see this sign, it's best to wait or find another facility.

Yes. 清掃員 (seisouin) is the modern, gender-neutral, and professional term for a cleaner or janitor. 掃除婦 (soujifu) specifically means 'cleaning lady' and is considered outdated and potentially sexist. Always use 清掃員 or 清掃スタッフ in modern Japanese.

You can hang the 'Do Not Disturb' sign, which often says '起こさないでください' or '清掃不要' (seisou fuyou - cleaning unnecessary). If speaking to the front desk, you can say '今日の清掃は結構です' (Kyou no seisou wa kekkou desu - I don't need cleaning today).

A 清掃工場 (seisou koujou) is a garbage incineration plant or waste management facility. In Japan, combustible trash is burned at these highly advanced, clean facilities. The word 清掃 here refers to the broader civic duty of keeping the city clean by managing waste.

This practice is called 'o-souji' (though the concept aligns with civic 清掃). It is a fundamental part of Japanese education aimed at teaching responsibility, teamwork, and respect for shared spaces. It eliminates the need for school janitors and instills a lifelong habit of cleanliness.

Yes, by adding する (suru) to make 清掃する (seisou suru). However, in formal contexts, it is more common to use it with the verb 行う (okonau), as in 清掃を行う (seisou o okonau - to conduct cleaning). Both mean 'to clean,' but the latter is more professional.

The 5S system is a workplace organization method originating in Japan. The five S's stand for Seiri (Sort), Seiton (Set in order), Seisou (Shine/Clean), Seiketsu (Standardize), and Shitsuke (Sustain). In this context, 清掃 means thoroughly cleaning the workspace to maintain safety and efficiency.

It is pronounced 'seisou'. Both syllables have long vowel sounds: 'sei' sounds like 'say' and 'sou' sounds like 'so' but held slightly longer. It has a flat pitch accent (heiban), meaning the pitch stays relatively level throughout the word.

特殊清掃 (tokushu seisou) translates to 'specialized cleaning.' It usually refers to the extreme cleaning required after a severe hoarding situation, an unattended death, or a crime scene. It is a highly specialized and emotionally taxing profession in Japan.

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