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B1 verb 9 min de lectura

足す

tasu

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos 足す en 30 segundos

Explicación 足す in your Level:

At the A1 level, you learn '足す' (tasu) primarily as the word for the mathematical plus sign (+). It is one of the first verbs you use when talking about numbers. For example, '1 plus 1' is '1 tasu 1.' At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember that it is a verb that means 'to add.' You might see it in very simple sentences like 'Mizu o tashite kudasai' (Please add water). The focus is on physical things you can see and count. You will mostly use the polite form 'tashimasu' or the request form 'tashite kudasai.' It is a 'Godan' verb, so the dictionary form is 'tasu.' Even at this early stage, knowing 'tasu' helps you survive in a Japanese kitchen or classroom. You can use it to ask for more of something if you feel it is not enough. It is a very helpful word for expressing a basic need for more quantity. Think of it as the 'more' button for numbers and ingredients.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use '足す' (tasu) in more varied daily contexts beyond just simple math. You will use it when cooking to describe adding seasonings like salt or sugar ('shio o tasu'). You also start using the particle 'ni' to show where you are adding something, such as 'Kōhī ni satō o tasu' (Add sugar to coffee). You might also encounter the potential form 'taseru' (can add) in simple instructions. At this level, you should be able to distinguish 'tasu' from 'motto' (more). 'Motto' is an adverb, while 'tasu' is the action of physically putting more in. You will also see it used in shopping contexts, like adding items to a basket or adding a small amount of money to reach a total. The connection between the kanji for 'foot' (足) and the meaning of 'sufficient' becomes a useful mnemonic here: you are adding until it is 'sufficient.'

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At the B1 level, '足す' (tasu) becomes a tool for making adjustments and refinements. You move beyond simple addition to using the word for 'supplementing' or 'filling a gap.' You will learn compound verbs like '付け足す' (tsuketasu), which means to add a comment or an extra detail to something already existing. You also start to understand the nuance of 'tasu' compared to 'kuwaeru' (to add/include) and 'fuyasu' (to increase). At B1, you are expected to use 'tasu' when the focus is on quantity or reaching a specific total, whereas 'kuwaeru' is for adding a new element to a group. You might use 'tasu' in a professional setting to suggest adding a slide to a presentation or adding a clarifying sentence to an email. You also become aware of the polite euphemism 'shōyō o tasu' (to relieve oneself), though you might not use it yourself often. Your sentences become more complex, using the 'te-form' to link actions, such as 'shio o tashite, yoku mazete kudasai' (add salt and mix well).

At the B2 level, you should have a precise grasp of when '足す' (tasu) is the most natural choice versus more formal or abstract synonyms. You will encounter 'tasu' in literature and news reports, often in the negative form 'nani mo tasanai' (adding nothing) to describe purity or perfection. You understand that 'tasu' implies a lack that needs to be filled, whereas 'kuwaeru' might imply an enhancement of something already complete. You can use 'tasu' in hypothetical or conditional sentences, such as 'Moshi ryō ga tarinakereba, ato de tashite mo ii desu' (If the amount isn't enough, you can add more later). You also start to notice 'tasu' in more technical or specialized contexts, such as adding variables in a computer program or adding specific chemical reagents in a lab. You are comfortable with all its conjugations, including the passive 'tasareru' and the causative-passive 'tasaserareru.'

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At the C1 level, you recognize the stylistic choices involved in using '足す' (tasu). You understand its role in creating a specific tone—physical, direct, and slightly more 'native' or 'homely' than the more clinical 'tsuika suru' (to add/append). You can use 'tasu' metaphorically in creative writing, perhaps describing how a sunset 'adds' a certain color to the landscape, though you know this is a more poetic stretch of the word. You are sensitive to the kanji's history and how the concept of 'sufficiency' (足る - taru) informs the usage of 'tasu.' You can explain the difference between 'tasu' and 'oginau' (to compensate) to other learners, noting that 'tasu' is the action while 'oginau' focuses on the result of fixing a deficit. In high-level discussions about linguistics or mathematics, you can use 'tasu' with precision, discussing it as a transitive operator. You are also familiar with archaic or very formal set phrases that might use the root, even if they aren't common in daily speech.

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At the C2 level, '足す' (tasu) is a word you use with the effortless precision of a native speaker. You are fully aware of its place in the Japanese lexicon, including its relationship to 'taru' (to be sufficient) and 'tashika' (certain). You can use 'tasu' in any register, from the most casual slang to formal presentations, knowing exactly when to swap it for 'tsuika suru,' 'tenka suru' (to add/annex), or 'fuyo suru' (to bestow/add). You might even use it in wordplay or puns, taking advantage of its multiple meanings (foot vs. add). You can read complex mathematical proofs or technical manuals where 'tasu' is used as a fundamental term and understand every nuance of its application. In literary analysis, you can discuss how an author uses 'tasu' to emphasize a character's feeling of incompleteness. Your mastery is such that you no longer think of the English word 'add' at all; you simply perceive the specific Japanese concept of supplementing a quantity to achieve sufficiency.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

足す en 30 segundos

A transitive verb meaning 'to add' or 'supplement,' primarily used for numbers, ingredients, and filling a deficit in quantity.
Commonly used in mathematics as the word for 'plus' (+) and in cooking when adjusting the flavor of a dish.
Distinguished from 'kuwaeru' (include) by its focus on quantity and from 'fuyasu' (increase) by its focus on a specific additive action.
Comes from the kanji for 'foot/leg' (足), which also carries the meaning of 'sufficiency' or 'being enough.'

The Japanese verb 足す (tasu) is a fundamental word that every learner must master as they transition into the intermediate CEFR B1 level. At its core, the word means 'to add' or 'to supplement.' While English speakers might use the word 'add' for everything from mathematical equations to social media friends, Japanese is more specific. Tasu is primarily used when you are increasing a quantity to reach a desired level or when you are performing mathematical addition. It carries a nuance of 'filling a gap' or 'making something sufficient,' which is reflected in its kanji origin.

Mathematical Context: In the world of arithmetic, 足す is the standard way to express the plus sign (+). When children learn that one plus one equals two, they say 「1に1を足すと2になる」. This is the most literal and common use of the word in educational settings.
Culinary and Household Use: When cooking, if a soup tastes too weak, you might tasu some salt. If the water in a vase is low, you tasu water. It implies adding more of the same substance to achieve a better balance or to replenish what was lost.

味が薄いので、塩を少し足してください。
— Translation: The flavor is weak, so please add a little salt.

Understanding the kanji 足 is key to grasping the word's soul. While this kanji usually means 'foot' or 'leg,' its secondary meaning is 'sufficient' or 'enough' (as seen in the verb taru). Therefore, tasu literally means 'to make something enough.' This is why we use it when we feel something is lacking. If you have five chairs but six guests, you need to tasu one more chair. You aren't just adding for the sake of adding; you are adding to complete the set or satisfy a requirement.

Supplementing Information: In conversation, if someone forgets to mention a detail, you might say, 「一言付け足してもいいですか？」 (May I add a word?). Here, 付け足す (tsuketasu) is a compound verb that emphasizes attaching an extra piece of information to the existing conversation.

足りない分を足すのが基本です。

Finally, it is important to distinguish tasu from kuwaeru. While both mean 'add,' tasu is more about quantity and numbers, whereas kuwaeru is more about including something new into a group or increasing intensity. If you add a new member to a team, you use kuwaeru. If you add 5 to 10, you use tasu. Mastering this distinction will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise.

Using 足す (tasu) correctly requires an understanding of Japanese particle logic. As a transitive verb (ta-dōshi), it almost always takes the particle を (o) to mark the thing being added. The destination or the thing you are adding to is marked with the particle に (ni). The basic formula is: [Target] に [Amount/Item] を足す.

The Math Pattern: When performing addition, the numbers are treated as objects. For example, 'Add 3 to 5' becomes 「5に3を足す」. In a classroom setting, you will often hear the potential form 足せる (taseru) when discussing whether certain variables can be combined.

この数式にXを足して計算してください。
— Translation: Please add X to this formula and calculate.

In everyday life, the verb is frequently used in the 〜て (te) form to give instructions. This is especially common in recipes or DIY manuals. Because tasu is a Godan verb (Type I), the dictionary form ends in -su, meaning the te-form becomes tashite and the polite form is tashimasu. This 'sh' sound change is a hallmark of verbs like hanasu or dasu.

The Concept of 'Replenishing': One of the most natural ways to use tasu is when you realize something is missing. If you are making tea and it's too strong, you 'add' water. In Japanese, this is 「お湯を足す」. If you are writing a report and it's too short, you 「文章を足す」 (add sentences).

ガソリンを少し足したほうがいいですね。
— Translation: It would be better to add a little gasoline.

Finally, consider the negative form 足さない (tasanai). In modern Japanese marketing, you might see slogans like 「何も足さない、何も引かない」 (Adding nothing, taking nothing away). This refers to the purity of a product, such as whiskey or spring water. It emphasizes that the item is perfect in its natural state, needing no supplementation.

You will encounter 足す (tasu) in a wide variety of social contexts in Japan, ranging from the mundane to the professional. Its frequency in daily life is high because humans are constantly adjusting, measuring, and supplementing things. Here are the most common environments where you will hear the word spoken naturally.

In the Kitchen and Restaurants: Whether you are watching a cooking show (ryōri bangumi) or eating at a ramen shop, tasu is everywhere. A chef might say, 「出汁を足してください」 (Please add more dashi stock). At a ramen shop, you might hear a customer ask to tasu toppings like corn or extra pork, though they might also use the word 'toppingu o tsuika suru' for a more formal order.

スープが煮詰まったら、お水を足して調整してください。
— Translation: If the soup boils down, please add water to adjust it.

In Japanese schools, specifically during elementary arithmetic (sansū), teachers use tasu constantly. It is the first mathematical verb children learn. You'll hear phrases like 「3に4を足すといくつになりますか？」 (If you add 4 to 3, what does it become?). This foundational use makes the word feel very approachable and 'basic' to native speakers.

In the Workplace: During meetings, when discussing reports or project plans, tasu is used to suggest improvements. 「この資料にグラフをもう一枚足しましょう」 (Let's add one more graph to these materials). It suggests a practical, additive improvement to the existing work.

不足している情報を足して再提出してください。
— Translation: Please add the missing information and resubmit.

Finally, you will hear it in DIY and craft stores. If you are buying wood and it's too short, the clerk might suggest 「板を足す」 (adding a board) to reach the desired length. It is a word of practical solutions and adjustments, making it an essential part of the 'survival' vocabulary for anyone living in Japan.

While 足す (tasu) seems straightforward, English speakers often fall into traps because the English word 'add' is much broader than its Japanese counterparts. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you reach a B2 level of fluency and sound more like a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Tasu' with 'Kuwaeru': This is the most common error. 足す is about quantity and filling a lack. 加える (kuwaeru) is about including something into a group or increasing intensity. If you say 「メンバーを足す」, it sounds like you are adding a number to a member. The correct way to say 'add a member to the team' is 「メンバーに加える」. Use tasu for things you can count or measure (water, salt, numbers).

Incorrect: チームに新しい人を足しました。
Correct: チームに新しい人を加えました。

Another error involves the concept of 'increasing' or 'growing.' If you want to say 'add more friends,' you should use 増やす (fuyasu). Tasu is a specific act of addition, while fuyasu is the general act of increasing the total number. If you say 「友達を足す」, it sounds like you are performing a mathematical operation on your social circle.

Mistake 2: Overusing it for 'Plus': In abstract or figurative speech, tasu can sound a bit childish or too literal. For example, 'Experience adds value' shouldn't use tasu. Instead, use 高める (takamereu - to heighten) or もたらす (motarasu - to bring). Tasu is very physical and concrete.

❌ 経験が価値を足す。
✅ 経験が価値を高める。

Finally, watch out for the transitive/intransitive pair. Tasu is something YOU do. If something 'increases' on its own, use fueru. You cannot say 'The water added' using tasu. You must say 'I added water' (mizu o tashita) or 'The water increased' (mizu ga fueta).

To truly master 足す (tasu), you must see where it fits in the family of Japanese 'adding' and 'increasing' verbs. Japanese has a high degree of lexical specificity, meaning there are different words for adding a seasoning, adding a member, and adding a building extension.

足す (Tasu) vs. 加える (Kuwaeru): 足す: Quantifiable, supplementary, filling a lack. (e.g., adding 5 to 10, adding salt to soup).
加える: Including something as part of a whole, increasing force/speed. (e.g., adding a new member to a club, adding pressure, adding speed).
足す (Tasu) vs. 増やす (Fuyasu): 足す: A specific one-time action of adding a piece or amount.
増やす: To increase the overall quantity or volume over time. (e.g., increasing your savings, increasing the number of employees).

比較：
1. 塩を足す (Add salt to fix flavor)
2. 塩を加える (Add salt as an ingredient)
3. 生産量を増やす (Increase production volume)

Other useful alternatives include 付け加える (tsukekuaeru), which is often used for adding a comment or a postscript to a letter. It implies 'attaching' something extra to what is already finished. There is also 補う (oginau), which means 'to compensate for' or 'to make up for a deficit.' While tasu is just the act of adding, oginau emphasizes that there was a serious shortage or weakness that needed fixing.

合計する (Gōkei suru): While tasu is the action of adding, gōkei suru is the action of 'totaling up.' Use this when you are finishing a calculation and looking for the final sum.

By choosing the right verb, you convey not just the action of 'adding,' but also the intent and the context. Tasu is your 'utility knife'—practical, common, and essential for daily adjustments, but knowing when to switch to kuwaeru or tsuika suru is what marks a truly advanced learner.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The kanji 足 (foot) is used because, in ancient concepts, a 'foot' or a 'step' was a unit of measurement that completed a path or reached a destination, leading to the meaning of 'enough' or 'complete.'

Guía de pronunciación

UK tæs.uː

US tɑː.suː

The pitch accent is 'Heiban' (Type 0). This means the first syllable 'ta' starts low and the second syllable 'su' rises and stays high.

Rima con

Dasu (出す) Nasu (成す) Kasu (貸す) Pasu (パス) Basu (バス) Asu (明日) Sasu (指す) Kurasu (暮らす)

Errores comunes

Pronouncing the 'u' too strongly (it is often whispered/devoiced in standard Japanese).
Confusing the pitch accent with 'Hanasu' (to speak).
Elongating the 'a' sound like 'taasu'.
Stressing the first syllable like English 'TOSS-oo'.
Not clearly distinguishing the 's' from a 'sh' sound.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

The kanji is very basic (JLPT N5), but the verb usage is N4/N3.

Escritura 2/5

The kanji 足 is easy to write, but don't forget the 'su' hiragana.

Expresión oral 3/5

Requires distinguishing from 'kuwaeru' and 'fuyasu' to sound natural.

Escucha 2/5

Commonly heard in classrooms and kitchens; easy to recognize.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

足 (Foot/Leg) 足りる (To be enough) 引く (To pull/subtract) 数 (Number) 塩 (Salt)

Aprende después

加える (To include/add) 増やす (To increase) 補う (To supplement) 追加する (To append) 合計 (Total)

Avanzado

添加物 (Additives) 充足 (Sufficiency/Satisfaction) 蛇足 (Superfluous addition) 補足 (Supplement/Complement)

Gramática que debes saber

Godan Verb Conjugation

足す (tasu) -> 足した (tashita), 足して (tashite), 足さない (tasanai)

Transitive Particle usage (を)

水を足す (Add water)

Destination Particle usage (に)

スープに塩を足す (Add salt to the soup)

Potential Form (える)

これにさらに数字を足せますか？ (Can you add more numbers to this?)

Volitional Form (おう)

もう少し説明を足そう。 (Let's add a bit more explanation.)

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Ejemplos por nivel

1に2を足すと3です。

One plus two is three.

Basic mathematical addition using the 'ni...o tasu' pattern.

お水を足してください。

Please add some water.

Requesting a physical addition using the te-form + kudasai.

しおを少し足します。

I will add a little salt.

Polite present tense of a Godan verb.

3足す5はいくつですか？

What is 3 plus 5?

Using 'tasu' as a conjunction meaning 'plus'.

もっとおゆを足して。

Add more hot water.

Casual request using the te-form alone.

ここに名前を足してください。

Please add your name here.

Adding information (a name) to a specific location (marked by ni).

さとうを足しました。

I added sugar.

Polite past tense 'tashimashita'.

りんごをもう一つ足そう。

Let's add one more apple.

Volitional form 'tasou' used to suggest an action.

スープに牛乳を足すとおいしくなります。

If you add milk to the soup, it becomes delicious.

Conditional 'to' used to show a result of the addition.

足りない分を足しておきました。

I added the missing amount in advance.

Using '~te oku' to indicate doing something in preparation.

ガソリンを足しに行きましょう。

Let's go add some gasoline.

Verb stem + ni iku (go to do something).

コーヒーに砂糖を足しますか？

Would you like to add sugar to your coffee?

Standard polite question about adding an ingredient.

この絵に色を足したいです。

I want to add color to this picture.

Desire form '~tai' attached to the verb stem.

もう少し説明を足してください。

Please add a bit more explanation.

Adding abstract information like an explanation.

500円足すと、セットになります。

If you add 500 yen, it becomes a set meal.

Using addition in a commercial/monetary context.

火力が弱いので、炭を足しましょう。

The fire is weak, so let's add some charcoal.

Supplementing fuel to maintain a process.

レポートの最後に一言足しました。

I added a few words to the end of the report.

Adding a small amount of text to a larger work.

このソースには何かを足したほうがいいですね。

It would be better to add something to this sauce.

'~ta hou ga ii' (had better) used with the past tense.

材料が足りなかったので、買い足してきました。

We didn't have enough ingredients, so I went and bought more.

Compound verb 'kaitasu' (to buy more of something you already have).

100に100を足せば、200になります。

If you add 100 to 100, it becomes 200.

Provisional conditional '~eba' form.

予算を少し足すことは可能ですか？

Is it possible to add a little to the budget?

Using 'tasu koto' to turn the verb into a noun phrase.

彼は自分の意見を付け足した。

He added (appended) his own opinion.

Using the compound verb 'tsuketasu' for adding comments.

このスープ、少しお湯を足して薄めて。

Dilute this soup by adding a little hot water.

Using addition as a means to achieve a specific result (dilution).

不足分を足さないと、完成しません。

If you don't add the missing parts, it won't be completed.

Negative conditional '~nai to' (must/if not).

この契約書に新しい条項を足す必要があります。

It is necessary to add a new clause to this contract.

'hitsuyou ga aru' (need to) used with the dictionary form.

何も足さない、何も引かないのが一番です。

Adding nothing and taking nothing away is best.

Parallel structure using dictionary forms as nouns.

計算ミスで、10を足し忘れてしまいました。

Due to a calculation error, I forgot to add 10.

Verb stem + 'wasureru' (forget to do something).

この物語に、もう少しドラマを足したい。

I want to add a bit more drama to this story.

Using 'tasu' for abstract qualities in creative work.

彼は説明を足そうとしたが、遮られた。

He tried to add an explanation, but was interrupted.

Volitional form + 'to suru' (try to do something).

足された数字が間違っているようです。

It seems the added numbers are incorrect.

Passive form 'tasareta' used as an adjective.

情報を足しすぎると、かえって分かりにくくなる。

If you add too much information, it actually becomes harder to understand.

Verb stem + 'sugiru' (do too much).

その差を足すことで、つじつまが合う。

By adding that difference, the logic becomes consistent.

Using 'de' after a nominalized verb to show means.

彼の言葉には、常に余計な一言が足されている。

There is always an unnecessary extra word added to his speech.

Passive progressive form 'tasarete iru'.

この法案に修正を足すには、時間が足りない。

There is not enough time to add amendments to this bill.

Using 'tasu' in a high-level legislative context.

足りない部分を足し合わせることで、全体像が見えてくる。

By adding the missing parts together, the whole picture emerges.

Compound verb 'tashiawaseru' (to add/combine together).

伝統的な手法に、現代的な感覚を足した建築だ。

It is architecture that has added a modern sensibility to traditional methods.

Describing a stylistic fusion using 'tasu'.

あえて何も足さないことで、素材の良さを引き出している。

By intentionally adding nothing, the quality of the materials is brought out.

Using the negative form to describe a minimalist aesthetic.

この数式に定数を足すという発想はなかった。

I didn't have the idea of adding a constant to this equation.

Abstract nominalization of a specific mathematical action.

不足している栄養素をサプリメントで足す。

Supplementing missing nutrients with supplements.

Using 'tasu' for dietary supplementation.

一筆足すだけで、手紙の印象がガラリと変わる。

Just by adding a short note, the impression of the letter changes completely.

Using 'tasu' for a small but impactful addition.

万葉集の歌に、後の時代が注釈を足していった。

Later eras added annotations to the poems of the Man'yoshu.

Describing historical accretion using 'tasu'.

その議論に新たな視点を足すことは、極めて困難だ。

Adding a new perspective to that debate is extremely difficult.

Using 'tasu' for high-level intellectual contributions.

既存のシステムに新機能を足す際の互換性が問題だ。

Compatibility is an issue when adding new functions to an existing system.

Technical usage in software engineering.

言葉を足せば足すほど、真意から遠ざかる気がする。

The more words I add, the further away I feel from my true meaning.

The 'ba...hodo' (the more... the more) construction.

この絵画は、光を足すことで完成すると作者は語った。

The artist said this painting would be completed by adding light.

Philosophical or artistic use of the verb.

統計データに重みを足して再計算を行った。

Recalculation was performed by adding weights to the statistical data.

Advanced mathematical/statistical terminology.

日常の風景に少しの毒を足すのが彼の作風だ。

Adding a bit of 'poison' (darkness/edge) to everyday scenes is his style.

Metaphorical use in art criticism.

一秒を足すという「うるう秒」の概念は興味深い。

The concept of a 'leap second'—adding one second—is interesting.

Scientific application regarding time measurement.

Colocaciones comunes

1に1を足す

塩を足す

水を足す

言葉を足す

予算を足す

色を足す

炭を足す

一言足す

買い足す

書き足す

Frases Comunes

足したり引いたり

— Adding and subtracting. Often used to describe making adjustments to reach a balance.

予算を足したり引いたりして調整する。

二言三言足す

— To add a few words. Used when someone supplements a conversation briefly.

彼は最後に二言三言足した。

小用を足す

— A polite euphemism for going to the bathroom (relieving oneself).

ちょっと小用を足してきます。

用を足す

— To do one's business or run an errand. Can also be a euphemism for the bathroom.

駅で用を足してから行きます。

書き足しておく

— To add some writing in advance or for future reference.

忘れないように書き足しておいた。

買い足しに行く

— To go out and buy more of something because you ran out.

牛乳を買い足しに行ってくる。

一味足す

— To add a unique flavor or a special touch to something.

隠し味としてスパイスを一味足す。

不足を足す

— To fill a shortage or supplement what is missing.

不足している分を足す。

付け足し

— An addition, an appendix, or an afterthought (noun form).

それはただの付け足しに過ぎない。

足しにする

— To use something to help make up a total or as a small contribution.

生活費の足しにする。

Se confunde a menudo con

足す vs 加える (Kuwaeru)

English speakers use 'add' for both. Use 'tasu' for quantity/numbers and 'kuwaeru' for including elements in a whole.

足す vs 増やす (Fuyasu)

Use 'tasu' for the specific act of adding a piece; use 'fuyasu' for the general goal of increasing the total.

足す vs 補う (Oginau)

'Tasu' is just adding; 'oginau' is adding specifically to fix a weakness or deficit.

Modismos y expresiones

"蛇足 (Dasoku)"

— Literally 'snake legs.' It refers to something superfluous or unnecessary that was added.

彼のスピーチの後半は蛇足だった。

Literary/Formal

"足し前 (Tashimae)"

— Supplementing or making up for a deficit (often in money).

お小遣いの足し前にする。

Casual

"付け足し (Tsuketashi)"

— Something added as an afterthought; often used dismissively.

おまけの付け足しみたいなものだ。

Neutral

"二の足を踏む"

— To hesitate or have second thoughts (uses the 'foot' kanji, related to sufficiency/stopping).

投資に二の足を踏む。

Neutral

"満足する (Manzoku suru)"

— To be satisfied (literally 'full feet,' meaning sufficiency reached).

今の生活に満足している。

Neutral

"不足する (Fusoku suru)"

— To be insufficient (literally 'not enough feet').

人手が不足している。

Neutral

"足が出る"

— To exceed the budget (literally 'feet stick out').

旅行で予算の足が出た。

Idiomatic

"揚げ足を取る"

— To trip someone up or find fault in their words (literally 'take a raised foot').

人の揚げ足を取るな。

Idiomatic

"足を洗う"

— To quit a bad habit or leave a shady business (literally 'wash feet').

悪い仲間から足を洗う。

Idiomatic

"足元を見る"

— To take advantage of someone's weakness (literally 'look at the feet').

弱みにつけこんで足元を見る。

Idiomatic

Fácil de confundir

足す vs 加える

Both mean 'to add' in English.

Tasu is about quantity and filling a gap. Kuwaeru is about including something as part of a set or increasing intensity (like pressure).

塩を足す (Add salt to fix taste) vs. チームに人を加える (Add a person to the team).

足す vs 増やす

Both lead to a larger amount.

Tasu is the action of putting A into B. Fuyasu is the general act of making the quantity larger, often over time.

水を足す (Add water now) vs. 貯金を増やす (Increase savings over time).

足す vs 混ぜる

Adding often involves mixing.

Tasu is just the act of putting something in. Mazeru is the act of stirring or combining them.

卵を足して、よく混ぜる (Add an egg, then mix well).

足す vs 乗せる

Adding something on top.

Noseru is 'to put on top' (like a topping). Tasu is 'to add into' (like an ingredient).

ケーキにイチゴを乗せる (Put a strawberry on a cake).

足す vs 付ける

Adding an attachment.

Tsukeru means to attach or stick something on. Tasu means to supplement the quantity.

ラベルを付ける (Attach a label) vs. 情報を足す (Add information).

Patrones de oraciones

[Number] 足す [Number] は [Total]

5足す5は10です。

[Noun] に [Noun] を足す

お酒にお湯を足す。

[Noun] を足したほうがいい

もっと具体例を足したほうがいい。

[Verb Stem] 足す (Compound Verb)

新しい情報を書き足す。

[Noun] を足すことで [Result]

スパイスを足すことで味が深まる。

何も足さない [Noun]

何も足さないウイスキーの味。

[Noun] に [Noun] を足し合わせる

複数の意見を足し合わせる。

[Noun] を足し忘れる

砂糖を足し忘れた。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

足し算 (Tashizan - Addition)

付け足し (Tsuketashi - Addition/Appendix)

足し前 (Tashimae - Supplement/Money to make up a sum)

Verbos

足す (Tasu - To add)

付け足す (Tsuketasu - To append/add on)

買い足す (Kaitasu - To buy more)

書き足す (Kakitasu - To add writing)

足し合わせる (Tashiawaseru - To add together)

Adjetivos

足りない (Tarinai - Not enough/Insufficient)

満足な (Manzoku na - Satisfactory)

Relacionado

加える (Kuwaeru - To add/include)

増やす (Fuyasu - To increase)

補う (Oginau - To supplement)

追加 (Tsuika - Addition)

合計 (Gōkei - Total)

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very high in mathematical, culinary, and general adjustment contexts.

Errores comunes

Using 'tasu' for adding friends on Facebook. → 友達を追加する (Tomodachi o tsuika suru).
'Tasu' is for quantities and math. 'Tsuika suru' is for digital additions and professional requests.
Using 'to' instead of 'ni' for the base. → スープに水を足す (Sūpu ni mizu o tasu).
In English we say 'add A and B,' but in Japanese, you add 'to' (ni) a base.
Using 'tasu' for increasing speed. → スピードを上げる (Supīdo o ageru).
'Tasu' is for adding units. Speed is an intensity, so you 'raise' (ageru) or 'add' (kuwaeru) it.
Confusing 'tasu' with 'fuyasu'. → 貯金を増やす (Chokin o fuyasu).
Use 'tasu' for a specific additive action. Use 'fuyasu' for the overall goal of increasing a total.
Using 'tasu' for adding people to a group. → メンバーに加える (Menbā ni kuwaeru).
'Kuwaeru' is for inclusion. 'Tasu' sounds like you are treating people as mere numbers.

Consejos

Particle Precision

Always use 'ni' for the container and 'o' for the item. 'Kōhī (ni) satō (o) tasu.' If you mix them up, the sentence won't make sense!

Cooking Context

In recipes, you'll often see 'tashite' followed by 'mazeru' (mix). It's a key word for adjusting seasoning at the end of cooking.

Polite Bathroom Use

If you are with older Japanese people, saying 'shōyō o tashite kimasu' is much more elegant than saying you're going to the toilet.

Quick Calculation

When adding up a bill with friends, use 'tasu' for each item. 'Kore ni kore o tashite...' (Add this to this...).

Adding a Word

Use 'hitokoto tasu' (add one word) when you want to politely interrupt to add a small but important detail.

Compound Verbs

Combine 'tasu' with other verbs like 'kaku' (write) to make 'kakitasu' (add writing). This makes your Japanese sound much more advanced.

Foot vs. Enough

Remember: 足 = Foot. Foot = Step. One more step = Enough. To make enough = 足す (Tasu).

Business Etiquette

In a formal report, use 'tsuika' (addition) instead of 'tasu' for a more professional tone.

The Silent 'U'

In the word 'tasu,' the 'u' is very quiet. Focus on the 'tas' sound when listening to native speakers.

No Social Media 'Tasu'

Never use 'tasu' for adding followers or friends. Use 'fuyasu' (increase) or 'tsuika suru' (add).

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'foot' (足) taking one more 'step' to reach the finish line. You need to 'add' (tasu) that last step to be 'sufficient.'

Asociación visual

Imagine a bowl of soup with a giant foot holding a salt shaker, adding salt until it is 'just right.'

Word Web

足す (Add) 足し算 (Addition) 足りる (To be enough) 満足 (Satisfaction) 不足 (Lack) 遠足 (Excursion - long walk) 足音 (Footstep sound) 足跡 (Footprint)

Desafío

Try to use 'tasu' three times today: once when talking about math, once when cooking, and once when you need to add a detail to a message.

Origen de la palabra

The verb 'tasu' is derived from the root 'tari-' or 'taru,' which means 'to be sufficient' or 'to be enough.' Historically, it was the transitive counterpart to the intransitive 'taru.'

Significado original: To make something sufficient or to bring it to a required level.

Japonic (Yamato Kotoba).

Contexto cultural

The phrase 'shōyō o tasu' (relieving oneself) is polite but should only be used in appropriate settings. Don't say it in the middle of a formal business dinner unless necessary.

English speakers often use 'add' too broadly. In Japanese, 'tasu' is more physical and numeric. Don't use it for 'adding friends' on Facebook!

The Suntory Whiskey ad slogan: 'Nani mo tasanai, nani mo hikanai' (Add nothing, subtract nothing). Elementary school 'Sansū' (Math) textbooks. Cooking shows like 'Today's Cooking' (Kyō no Ryōri) on NHK.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Mathematics

1足す1は2
足し算をする
合計を出す
数を足す

Cooking

塩を足す
水を足す
味を足す
だしを足す

Writing/Editing

一言足す
説明を足す
文章を書き足す
注釈を足す

Shopping

買い足す
予算を足す
小銭を足す
商品を足す

Polite Euphemism

用を足す
小用を足す
お手洗いを借りる
用件を済ませる

Inicios de conversación

"「10に25を足すと、いくらになりますか？」 (Simple math check)"

"「このスープ、もう少し何か足したほうがいいと思いますか？」 (Asking for cooking advice)"

"「レポートに何か足すべき情報はありますか？」 (Professional collaboration)"

"「コーヒーに砂糖かミルクを足しますか？」 (Hospitality)"

"「足りない分を後で足しても大丈夫ですか？」 (Clarifying a process)"

Temas para diario

今日、自分の生活に何を「足した」らもっと幸せになれると思いますか？ (What would you add to your life to be happier?)

料理をしていて、味を「足す」ときに気をつけていることは何ですか？ (What do you focus on when adding flavors while cooking?)

最近、新しく買い足したものは何ですか？なぜそれが必要でしたか？ (What did you recently buy more of?)

誰かの言葉に一言「足す」ことで、関係が良くなった経験はありますか？ (Have you improved a relationship by adding a few words?)

「何も足さない」ことの美しさについてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the beauty of adding nothing?)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, that would sound like you are doing a math problem with your friends. Instead, use 'tsuika suru' (to add) or 'tomodachi ni naru' (to become friends). 'Tasu' is strictly for quantities, numbers, and supplementary ingredients.

Yes, 'tasu' is the standard word for addition. For example, '10 plus 5' is '10 tasu 5.' However, in very formal or technical settings, you might hear 'kasan' (addition), but 'tasu' is used 99% of the time in daily life.

'Tasu' is a native Japanese verb (Yamato Kotoba) and sounds more casual and physical. 'Tsuika suru' is a Sino-Japanese word (Kango) and sounds more formal and professional. Use 'tsuika suru' when ordering more food at a restaurant or adding a feature to a project.

It is a Godan verb. Present: tasu. Polite: tashimasu. Te-form: tashite. Past: tashita. Negative: tasanai. Potential: taseru. Volitional: tasou.

Yes, in the set phrase 'shōyō o tasu' (literally 'to attend to a small matter'). It is a polite way to say you need to relieve yourself. You can also say 'yō o tasu' for general errands or the bathroom.

The kanji 足 also means 'sufficient' (as in 'taru'). 'Tasu' means 'to make sufficient.' It's like taking the final steps to complete a journey.

It is better to use 'kuwaeru' (to include) or 'shōkai suru' (to introduce). 'Tasu' sounds like you are just adding a number to a total, which is slightly dehumanizing if used for people.

Yes, 'purasu' is very common as a loanword. It is used for the '+' sign and also to mean 'a benefit' (e.g., 'That's a plus for your career'). However, 'tasu' is still the primary verb for the act of adding.

The mathematical opposite is 'hiku' (to subtract/minus). The general opposite for quantity is 'herasu' (to decrease).

Yes, you can 'tasu' a few minutes to a timer or 'tasu' a second to a clock (leap second). It implies extending the duration by adding a discrete unit of time.

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