When you want to say something is happening at a low level, you can use the Japanese word 低く (hikuku). This word is an adverb, which means it describes how an action is done. Think of it like saying "lowly" or "in a low manner" in English.
For example, if someone is speaking quietly, you could say they are speaking 低く. Or, if an airplane is flying near the ground, it's flying 低く. It's a useful word for describing actions that occur close to the ground or at a quiet volume.
When you're learning Japanese, you'll come across different ways to describe things. 低く (hikuku) is an adverb that means 'lowly' or 'at a low level'. It comes from the adjective 低い (hikui), which means 'low'.
Think of it like saying something is done 'in a low way'. For example, if someone speaks quietly, you might use 低く to describe how they are speaking. It's a useful word for adding more detail to your sentences.
When you're trying to describe something as being 'low' or 'at a low level' in Japanese, you'll often encounter the adverb 「低く」 (hikuku).
This word is super useful for talking about things like sound, position, or even a person's posture. For example, if someone is speaking softly, you could say they are speaking 「低く」. If a plane is flying close to the ground, it's flying 「低く」.
It emphasizes the 'lowness' or 'humbleness' of an action or state. Just remember, it's an adverb, so it modifies verbs and adjectives, telling you *how* something is done or *to what extent* something is low.
When you want to describe something as being 'low' or 'at a low level,' you can use the Japanese word 低く (hikuku). This word is an adverb, which means it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, telling us how something is done or to what extent.
You might hear it in phrases like 低く飛ぶ (hikuku tobu), meaning 'to fly low,' or 声を低くする (koe o hikuku suru), meaning 'to lower one's voice.'
It's a really useful word to describe height, sound, or even status in various contexts.
低く en 30 secondes
- Use 低く to describe something being low in position.
- Use 低く to describe something being low in volume.
- Use 低く to describe an action done at a low level.
§ What does “低く” mean?
- DEFINITION
- Lowly or at a low level.
The Japanese adverb “低く” (hikuku) comes from the adjective “低い” (hikui), meaning “low” or “short.” When you change an “i-adjective” like “低い” into an adverb, you drop the final “い” and add “く” (ku). This transformation allows the word to modify verbs or other adjectives, describing how an action is performed or to what extent something is true.
So, “低く” literally means “lowly” or “at a low level.” It's used when you want to describe something that is physically low, or metaphorically low in terms of sound, status, or intensity. Think of it as the “low” way of doing something.
§ When do people use “低く”?
You'll encounter “低く” in several common situations. Here are the main ones:
- Physical Height: This is the most straightforward use. When something is positioned low, or an action involves lowering something, “低く” is the word you need.
プレートとコップをテーブルに低く置いた。
Translation hint: I placed the plate and cup low on the table. (Meaning: I placed them down on the table, which is a lower position compared to holding them.)
若い木は枝が低く張っている。
Translation hint: The young tree has branches extending low.
- Sound Volume/Pitch: When you want to describe a sound that is quiet or a voice that is low-pitched, “低く” is the correct adverb.
彼は声を低くして話した。
Translation hint: He spoke in a low voice. (Meaning: He lowered his voice.)
ピアノの音が低く響く。
Translation hint: The piano sound resonates low. (Meaning: The sound is low-pitched or a low rumble.)
- Metaphorical "Low" (Intensity, Status, Quality): You can also use “低く” to describe things that are low in terms of quality, intensity, or even social standing, though this usage is less common for social standing directly modifying a verb. It's more about the degree or level of something.
フィルムは感染率を低く抑える。
Translation hint: The film suppresses the infection rate low. (Meaning: It keeps the infection rate low.)
Notice how in these examples, “低く” modifies the verb to explain *how* the action is done. It's not just that something *is* low (低い), but that an action is performed *in a low way* or *to a low degree*.
§ Understanding 「低く」 (Hikuku)
「低く」 (hikuku) is an adverb derived from the i-adjective 「低い」 (hikui), meaning 'low'. As an adverb, 「低く」 modifies verbs or other adjectives, indicating that an action is performed in a low manner or to a low degree. It's a versatile word you'll hear and use often in everyday Japanese.
§ Basic Usage: Modifying Verbs
The most common use of 「低く」 is to describe an action that happens at a low level, or with a low intensity, literally or figuratively. Think of it as 'lowly' or 'in a low way'.
- Grammar Point
- 「低く」 + Verb
彼女は低く歌った。
Translation hint: She sang lowly/softly.
彼は声を低くした。
Translation hint: He lowered his voice.
§ Expressing Physical Lowness
「低く」 can also describe physical actions that involve moving or being at a low height.
飛行機は空を低く飛んだ。
Translation hint: The airplane flew low in the sky.
彼は姿勢を低くした。
Translation hint: He lowered his stance/posture.
§ Figurative Uses of 「低く」
Beyond physical lowness, 「低く」 can be used to describe abstract concepts or states that are 'low' in some sense, such as spirits or quality.
彼の評価は低くなった。
Translation hint: His evaluation became low.
気分が低くなる。
Translation hint: To feel down/have low spirits.
§ Common Phrases and Collocations
Here are some common ways you'll encounter 「低く」 in natural Japanese:
声を低くする (koe o hikuku suru): To lower one's voice.
秘密を話すために、彼は声を低くした。
Translation hint: To tell a secret, he lowered his voice.
低く評価する (hikuku hyōka suru): To rate lowly; to underestimate.
彼らはそのプロジェクトを低く評価していた。
Translation hint: They rated that project lowly.
低く飛ぶ (hikuku tobu): To fly low.
鳥が湖の上を低く飛びました。
Translation hint: Birds flew low over the lake.
§ Don't Confuse with 「低い」 (Hikui)
For example:
- Adjective Example
- この机は低いです。(Kono tsukue wa hikui desu.) - This desk is low.
- Adverb Example
- もっと低く設定してください。(Motto hikuku settei shite kudasai.) - Please set it lower.
By understanding these differences and practicing with examples, you'll master 「低く」 in no time!
Alright, let's talk about where you're actually going to hear and use the word 「低く」 (hikuku) in real-life Japanese. This isn't just a textbook word; it pops up in everyday conversations, at work, in school, and even in the news. Understanding its practical applications will help you sound more natural and grasp spoken Japanese better.
§ In Daily Life and Conversation
You'll often hear 「低く」 when people are describing sounds, voices, or even the volume of something. Think about asking someone to speak more quietly, or describing a low hum.
- DEFINITION
- Referring to sound or voice.
声をもっと低くしてください。
- (Please make your voice lower.)
その音楽は低く流れていました。
- (That music was playing lowly/softly.)
§ In Work and Business Settings
In a professional environment, 「低く」 can be used when discussing figures, expectations, or positions. It's often about reducing something or keeping it at a minimal level.
- DEFINITION
- Referring to numbers, expectations, or status.
コストを低く抑える必要があります。
- (We need to keep costs low.)
彼は評価を低く見積もった。
- (He estimated the value low.)
§ In News and Formal Contexts
The news or more formal reports might use 「低く」 when describing conditions, statistics, or even attitudes that are 'low' or 'humble'.
- DEFINITION
- Referring to levels, statistics, or attitudes.
失業率は歴史的に低くなった。
- (The unemployment rate became historically low.)
彼は低く頭を下げた。
- (He bowed his head low.)
§ Don't confuse 低く with 低い
Many learners, especially at the A2 level, tend to mix up adjectives and adverbs. 低い (hikui) is an i-adjective meaning "low," while 低く (hikuku) is its adverbial form, meaning "lowly" or "at a low level." This distinction is crucial for grammatical accuracy.
- DEFINITION
- 低い (hikui): An i-adjective meaning "low" (describing a noun).
- DEFINITION
- 低く (hikuku): An adverb meaning "lowly" or "at a low level" (modifying a verb or another adjective).
そのテーブルは低いです。
That table is low.
声を低くして話してください。
Please speak in a low voice (literally, lower your voice).
§ Using 低く when an adjective is needed
Sometimes learners use 低く where 低い would be more appropriate, especially when describing a static state or characteristic of a noun. This often happens when directly translating from English, where "low" can function both as an adjective and an adverb.
Incorrect usage example:
その棚は低くです。(Incorrect)
The shelf is low.
Correct usage:
その棚は低いです。
The shelf is low.
§ Not understanding the nuance of action vs. state
低く implies an action of making something low, or something being done at a low level. It describes *how* an action is performed. If you are just describing the state of something being low, you need 低い.
低くする (hikuku suru): To make something low, to lower.
低くなる (hikuku naru): To become low, to get lower.
彼は姿勢を低くした。
He lowered his posture (made his posture low).
気温が低くなった。
The temperature became low (got lower).
§ Overusing 低く
While 低く is useful, sometimes there are more natural-sounding alternatives depending on the context. For instance, when talking about volume, you might use 小さい声で (chiisai koe de), meaning "in a small/quiet voice," rather than directly using 低く, though 声を低くする is also correct.
小さい声で話してください。
Please speak in a quiet voice.
§ What 「低く」 (hikuku) means
「低く」 (hikuku) is an adverb. It means “lowly” or “at a low level.” It comes from the adjective 「低い」 (hikui), which means “low.” When you add 「く」 to an i-adjective, you turn it into an adverb. This is a common pattern in Japanese grammar.
You use 「低く」 to describe how an action is performed, specifically when that action involves being low in some way. This can be literal (like crouching low) or figurative (like speaking in a low voice).
- Meaning
- Lowly or at a low level. It describes an action performed in a low manner.
§ Examples of 「低く」 in sentences
彼は声を低くして話した。
- Translation hint
- He spoke in a low voice.
飛行機が山の上を低く飛んでいました。
- Translation hint
- The airplane flew low over the mountains.
彼は姿勢を低くして進んだ。
- Translation hint
- He moved forward in a low posture.
§ Similar words and when to use them
While 「低く」 specifically modifies verbs, there are other words related to “low” in Japanese that you should know. Understanding their differences will help you use them correctly.
- 「低い」 (hikui): This is the adjective form. It describes a noun as being low in height, status, or sound.
この机は低い。
- Translation hint
- This table is low.
- 「下」 (shita): This is a noun meaning “below,” “under,” or “down.” It indicates a position.
本は机の下にある。
- Translation hint
- The book is under the table.
- 「下がる」 (sagaru): This is a verb meaning “to hang down,” “to drop,” or “to come down.” It describes the action of something moving downwards.
気温が下がった。
- Translation hint
- The temperature dropped.
The key difference is the part of speech and what aspect of “lowness” each word emphasizes. 「低く」 is strictly for modifying verbs to describe the manner of an action. 「低い」 is for describing nouns. 「下」 specifies location. And 「下がる」 describes the act of descending. Mastering these distinctions will significantly improve your Japanese accuracy.
How Formal Is It?
"低く評価する (ひくくひょうかする - to evaluate lowly)"
"声が低い (こえがひくい - voice is low)"
"ひくめにする (to make it lower)"
"ちっちゃくする (to make it tiny/small)"
"へたれなやつ (a lowly/pathetic guy)"
Le savais-tu ?
This word is often used to describe not just physical height, but also sounds (low pitch) or status (low social standing).
Guide de prononciation
- Mispronouncing the 'u' at the end as a long vowel, it's a short, almost unvoiced 'u'.
Niveau de difficulté
The kanji 低 is relatively common, and the hiragana ending is straightforward.
The kanji is fairly simple to write, and the hiragana is basic.
Pronunciation is standard.
No special phonetic challenges.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
「低い」 is an i-adjective meaning 'low' (height, sound, status, etc.). To use it as an adverb, you change the ending -い to -く.
彼が低い声で話した。 (He spoke in a low voice.)
「低く」 modifies verbs or other adjectives, describing how an action is performed or the degree of another adjective. For example, it can describe someone speaking quietly or a price being set low.
彼はもっと低く飛んだ。 (He flew lower.)
It can be used with verbs that imply a physical lowering or reduction. For instance, 「低くする」 means 'to lower something'.
音量を低くしてください。 (Please lower the volume.)
When expressing a state of being low, like 'to be low' or 'to stay low', you can use 「低くある」 or 「低く保つ」.
彼は姿勢を低く保った。 (He kept his posture low.)
「低く」 can also indicate a humble or modest attitude, such as bowing deeply or having a humble opinion. In this context, it often pairs with verbs like 「頭を下げる」 (to bow one's head).
彼は頭を低く下げた。 (He bowed his head low.)
Exemples par niveau
声が低く聞こえます。
Her voice sounds low.
低い (hikui) is an adjective meaning low. 低く (hikuku) is the adverbial form, modifying the verb 聞こえる (kikoeru - to sound/be audible).
テーブルが低く、座りにくいです。
The table is low, so it's hard to sit.
低い (hikui) describes the height of the table. 低く (hikuku) modifies the adjective 難しい (muzukashii - difficult) implicitly, indicating the difficulty is due to the low height.
鳥が空を低く飛びます。
The bird flies low in the sky.
低く (hikuku) modifies the verb 飛ぶ (tobu - to fly), indicating the manner of flight.
彼はいつも低く話します。
He always speaks softly/in a low voice.
低く (hikuku) modifies the verb 話す (hanasu - to speak), describing how he speaks.
その建物は屋根が低いです。
That building has a low roof.
低く (hikuku) in this context implies that the roof is low, it's modifying the noun 屋根 (yane - roof) in a descriptive way.
水位が低くなりました。
The water level became low.
低く (hikuku) is used with なる (naru - to become), indicating a change in state to a lower level.
彼女は姿勢を低くしました。
She lowered her posture.
低く (hikuku) modifies the verb する (suru - to do/make), indicating the action of lowering the posture.
テレビの音が低いです。
The TV volume is low.
低く (hikuku) describes the state of the sound volume. It's often used similarly to 小さい (chiisai - small/quiet).
声が低く聞こえます。
Her voice sounds low.
テーブルは低く設置されています。
The table is set low.
飛行機が低く飛んでいます。
The airplane is flying low.
彼は頭を低く下げた。
He bowed his head low.
その木は低く横に広がっている。
That tree spreads low and wide.
地面に低くかがんだ。
I crouched low to the ground.
テレビの音量を低くした。
I turned down the TV volume (made it low).
太陽が地平線に低く沈む。
The sun sets low on the horizon.
彼女は低い声でささやいた。
She whispered in a low voice.
低い声 (hikui koe) means 'low voice'.
飛行機は雲の下を低く飛んだ。
The airplane flew low beneath the clouds.
低く飛ぶ (hikuku tobu) means 'to fly low'.
気温が低く、雪が降った。
The temperature was low, and it snowed.
気温が低い (kion ga hikui) means 'the temperature is low'.
彼の評価は同僚の中で低かった。
His evaluation was low among his colleagues.
評価が低い (hyōka ga hikui) means 'the evaluation is low'.
会社はコストを低く抑える努力をした。
The company made efforts to keep costs low.
コストを低く抑える (kosuto o hikuku osaeru) means 'to keep costs low'.
彼は頭を低くして部屋に入った。
He entered the room with his head low.
頭を低くする (atama o hikuku suru) means 'to lower one's head'.
その地域は海抜が低いです。
That region has a low elevation above sea level.
海抜が低い (kaibatsu ga hikui) means 'the elevation above sea level is low'.
彼はいつも謙虚で、自分を低く評価する。
He is always humble and evaluates himself lowly.
自分を低く評価する (jibun o hikuku hyōka suru) means 'to evaluate oneself lowly'.
その歌手は低く、しかし力強く歌った。
The singer sang lowly, yet powerfully.
彼は声を低くして秘密を打ち明けた。
He lowered his voice and confided a secret.
飛行機は低く雲の中を飛んでいった。
The airplane flew low through the clouds.
低く評価されたその映画が、実は傑作だった。
That movie, which was lowly rated, was actually a masterpiece.
彼女は低くかがんで、落とし物を拾った。
She bent down low and picked up what she had dropped.
太陽が低く西に傾き始めた。
The sun began to sink low in the west.
彼の低い声は、部屋中に響き渡った。
His low voice echoed throughout the room.
低く見積もられた予算では、計画は実行不可能だ。
With a lowly estimated budget, the plan is impossible to execute.
彼女は低い声で囁いた。
She whispered in a low voice.
飛行機は雲の低くを飛んでいた。
The airplane was flying low beneath the clouds.
彼の評価は同僚の中で低く見積もられている。
His evaluation is underestimated among his colleagues.
経済成長率が低く、国民は不安を感じている。
The economic growth rate is low, and the citizens are feeling uneasy.
彼女のプライドは傷つき、頭を低く垂れた。
Her pride was hurt, and she bowed her head low.
その地域は海抜が低く、洪水のリスクが高い。
That region has a low elevation, and the risk of flooding is high.
彼はいつも目標を低く設定し、簡単に達成する。
He always sets his goals low and achieves them easily.
音楽の音量を低くしてください。
Please turn down the volume of the music.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
声が低く響く。
His voice resonates low.
彼はいつも自分を低く評価する。
He always underestimates himself.
姿勢を低くして進んだ。
He advanced with a low posture.
値段を低く抑えた。
I kept the price low.
飛行機が低く飛んでいく。
An airplane flies low.
草が低く生えている。
The grass grows low.
低く見積もらないでください。
Please don't underestimate it.
彼の評価は世間から低く見られている。
His reputation is regarded lowly by the public.
木の枝が低く垂れている。
The tree branches are hanging low.
低く歌う
to sing lowly
Souvent confondu avec
The i-adjective meaning 'low' or 'short'. '低く' is its adverbial form.
Transitive verb: 'to lower (something)'.
Intransitive verb: 'to get lower' or 'to go down'.
Modèles grammaticaux
Expressions idiomatiques
"低く評価する (ひくくひょうかする)"
To underestimate; to evaluate lowly.
彼の能力を低く評価してはいけません。 (Don't underestimate his abilities.)
neutral"低く見る (ひくくみる)"
To look down on; to despise.
人を低く見てはいけません。 (You shouldn't look down on people.)
neutral"声が低くなる (こえがひくくなる)"
To lower one's voice; to speak in a low voice.
秘密の話なので、声が低くなった。 (Since it was a secret, his voice became low.)
neutral"腰を低くする (こしをひくくする)"
To humble oneself; to be modest.
彼はいつも腰を低くして人と接する。 (He always interacts with people humbly.)
neutral"身を低くする (みをひくくする)"
To humble oneself; to act modestly.
成功しても、身を低くすることが大切だ。 (Even after success, it's important to humble oneself.)
neutral"姿勢を低くする (しせいをひくくする)"
To lower one's stance; to adopt a low posture (literally or figuratively, meaning to be cautious or deferential).
敵の前では姿勢を低くするべきだ。 (You should lower your stance in front of the enemy.)
neutral"レベルが低く設定されている (レベルがひくくせっていされている)"
The level is set low.
このゲームは初心者向けで、レベルが低く設定されている。 (This game is for beginners, and the level is set low.)
neutral"低く構える (ひくくかまえる)"
To adopt a low stance; to be modest and not boastful.
彼はどんな時も低く構えている。 (He always maintains a modest attitude.)
neutral"評価を低くする (ひょうかをひくくする)"
To lower the evaluation; to rate poorly.
彼の作品は評価を低くされた。 (His work was rated poorly.)
neutral"低く飛ぶ (ひくくとぶ)"
To fly low.
鳥が湖面を低く飛んでいた。 (A bird was flying low over the surface of the lake.)
neutralFacile à confondre
This is the i-adjective form, meaning 'low' or 'short' (for objects, height). Learners often confuse when to use the adjective vs. the adverb.
低い is an adjective describing a noun (e.g., 低い建物 - a low building).
山が低い。 (Yama ga hikui.) - The mountain is low.
This is a transitive verb meaning 'to lower (something)'. It's often confused with the adverb '低く' especially when trying to express the action of lowering.
低める is an action verb; 低く describes how an action is performed.
声を低めて話す。 (Koe o hikumete hanasu.) - To lower one's voice and speak.
This phrase means 'to become low' or 'to get lower'. It uses the -ku form of the adjective, which can be confused with the adverb '低く' directly modifying a verb.
低くなる describes a change in state; 低く modifies a verb to describe the manner of an action.
気温が低くなる。 (Kion ga hikuku naru.) - The temperature becomes low.
While not directly related to 'low' in terms of physical level, '少ない' means 'few' or 'little' (in quantity). Learners sometimes use '低い' mistakenly when they mean a low quantity.
低い refers to physical level/height; 少ない refers to quantity/amount.
友達が少ない。 (Tomodachi ga sukunai.) - I have few friends.
This i-adjective means 'short' (in length or time). It's sometimes confused with '低い' when describing things that are not tall.
低い is about vertical level/height; 短い is about length or duration.
短い鉛筆。 (Mijikai enpitsu.) - A short pencil.
Structures de phrases
〜を低くする (to lower something)
声を低くする (to lower one's voice)
〜が低くなる (something becomes low)
気温が低くなる (the temperature becomes low)
低く評価する (to evaluate lowly)
彼の能力を低く評価する (to evaluate his ability lowly)
低く見積もる (to estimate lowly)
費用を低く見積もる (to estimate the cost lowly)
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Astuces
Basic Meaning of 低く
Understand that 低く (hikuku) primarily means lowly or at a low level. It's often used to describe actions or states that are physically low.
Adverbial Form
Remember that 低く is the adverbial form of the adjective 低い (hikui), meaning 'low'. This means it modifies verbs or other adjectives.
Use with Verbs
You'll frequently see 低く used with verbs to describe how an action is performed. For example, 低く飛ぶ (hikuku tobu) means to fly low.
Describing Voice
It can also describe a low voice. For instance, 低く話す (hikuku hanasu) means to speak in a low voice or speak softly.
Figurative Use
While primarily physical, it can sometimes have a figurative sense, like to lower one's posture or be humble, though this is less common at A2.
Contrast with 高く
Compare it with 高く (takaku), which means highly or at a high level. This helps solidify your understanding of both adverbs.
Don't Confuse with 背が低い
Do not confuse 低く with 背が低い (se ga hikui), which specifically means short (in height) for a person.
Example: Fly Low
飛行機が低く飛んでいる。(Hikouki ga hikuku tonde iru.) - The airplane is flying low. (Hint: 飛行機 = airplane, 飛んでいる = flying)
Example: Speak in a Low Voice
彼は低くささやいた。(Kare wa hikuku sasayaita.) - He whispered in a low voice. (Hint: 彼 = he, ささやいた = whispered)
Practice Sentences
Try creating your own sentences using 低く. For example, 'The bird flew low over the water' or 'She spoke in a low voice so no one would hear'.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine a shy person speaking 'lowly' (低く - hiku ku). They might even duck 'low' (低く) when they're embarrassed.
Association visuelle
Picture a limbo bar set very 'lowly' (低く). Someone is trying to get under it, going 'low' (低く).
Word Web
Défi
Describe something you would set 'low' (低く) or a situation where someone speaks 'lowly' (低く). For example: 私はラジオの音量を低くする (Watashi wa rajio no onryou o hikuku suru - I turn the radio volume down low).
Origine du mot
From Classical Japanese.
Sens originel : Originally referred to something that is physically low in height or position.
JaponicContexte culturel
When describing someone's voice, using 「低い声」 (hikui koe) means a low-pitched voice. It can also imply humility or a down-to-earth demeanor, which is generally viewed positively in Japanese culture. Conversely, being 「地位が低い」 (chii ga hikui) means having a low social status.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Speaking softly or quietly.
- 低く話してください。
- もっと低く話せますか。
- 声が低くても聞こえますよ。
Lowering something physically.
- 棚を低くする。
- イスを低くしてください。
- カメラをもう少し低く。
The sun or moon being low in the sky.
- 太陽が低く見えます。
- 月が低く出ています。
- 朝日はまだ低くかった。
Bowing low as a sign of respect.
- 頭を低く下げた。
- 彼は低くお辞儀をした。
- もっと低くお辞儀しなさい。
Flying at a low altitude.
- 飛行機が低く飛んでいる。
- 鳥が低く舞い降りた。
- ヘリコプターが低く旋回する。
Amorces de conversation
"あなたは普段、低く話しますか？"
"何かを低くした経験はありますか？"
"低い声で歌うのは好きですか？"
"飛行機が低く飛んでいるのを見ると、どう感じますか？"
"尊敬の気持ちを表すために、頭を低く下げることはありますか？"
Sujets d'écriture
今日、あなたが低く感じたことは何ですか？
あなたの周りで、何か低いものや低い状態のものを観察し、それを日本語で説明してみましょう。
もしあなたが低い声で話すことができたら、どんな状況でそうしますか？
「低く」という言葉を使って、短い物語を書いてみましょう。
あなたにとって「低くあること」とは、どのような意味を持ちますか？
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYou can use 低く (hikuku) to describe something being lowly or at a low level. For example, 「声が低く」 (koe ga hikuku) means 'in a low voice' or 'the voice is low'.
低い (hikui) is an i-adjective meaning 'low', like in 「低い山」 (hikui yama - low mountain). 低く (hikuku) is the adverbial form, used to modify verbs or other adjectives, meaning 'lowly' or 'at a low level'. It describes how an action is performed or the state of something.
Yes, absolutely! That's one of its primary uses. For example, 「低く飛ぶ」 (hikuku tobu) means 'to fly low'. Another example is 「声を低くする」 (koe o hikuku suru), which means 'to lower one's voice'.
Not always. While it often relates to physical height, it can also refer to sound pitch, like 「低く歌う」 (hikuku utau - to sing low), or even a social status or position, though this is less common for everyday usage at the A2 level. Focus on physical and sound level first.
Yes, a very common one is 「声を低くする」 (koe o hikuku suru), meaning 'to lower one's voice'. You might also hear 「姿勢を低くする」 (shisei o hikuku suru - to lower one's posture).
Think of it as 'low-ly' or 'in a low way'. The 'ku' ending often indicates an adverbial form of an i-adjective. Connect it to actions being done 'low'.
The kanji 低 (tei) means 'low' or 'short'. It's the same kanji found in 低い (hikui).
It's generally neutral. It just describes a low level or manner. Whether it's positive or negative depends on the context of the full sentence. For example, 「評価が低く」 (hyouka ga hikuku) means 'the evaluation is low', which might be negative, but 「姿勢を低くする」 (shisei o hikuku suru) could be a neutral instruction.
The opposite would generally be 高く (takaku), which is the adverbial form of 高い (takai - high). So, 'high-ly' or 'at a high level'.
It's a neutral adverbial form, so it can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the overall sentence structure and politeness level. The word itself doesn't carry a strong formality connotation.
Teste-toi 150 questions
彼は___声で話しました。(He spoke in a low voice.)
「低く」は「低い」の副詞形で、声や位置が低い状態を表します。
その鳥は___飛んでいます。(That bird is flying low.)
「低く」は「低い」の副詞形で、位置が低い状態を表します。
彼は地面に___座っています。(He is sitting low on the ground.)
「低く」は「低い」の副詞形で、座る位置が低い状態を表します。
音楽の音量を___してください。(Please turn down the music volume.)
「低く」は「低い」の副詞形で、音量を下げることを表します。
太陽が___沈んでいます。(The sun is setting low.)
「低く」は「低い」の副詞形で、太陽の位置が低い状態を表します。
その飛行機は___飛んでいきました。(That airplane flew low.)
「低く」は「低い」の副詞形で、飛行機の高度が低い状態を表します。
The voice is low.
The table is low.
The clouds are low.
Read this aloud:
低く言ってください。
Focus: ひくく
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Read this aloud:
あの家は低いです。
Focus: 低い (ひくい)
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Read this aloud:
声をもっと低くしてください。
Focus: 声 (こえ)
Tu as dit :
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彼女は___声で歌いました。
「低く」は「低い声で」という意味になり、文脈に合います。
先生はもっと___話すように言いました。
「低く話す」は「声を落として話す」という意味で、指示として自然です。
飛行機は雲の___を飛んでいました。
「雲の低くを飛ぶ」は、飛行機が雲の下の方を飛んでいる状況を表します。
その建物は、他の建物よりも___建てられています。
「低く建てられている」は、建物の高さが低いことを示します。
彼は頭を___下げて謝りました。
「頭を低く下げる」は、謙虚に謝る様子を表す表現です。
音量をもう少し___してください。
「音量を低くする」は、音量を下げるという意味です。
Choose the best word to complete the sentence: 彼の声はいつも___。
The sentence means 'His voice is always...' and '低く' fits to describe the voice as 'low'.
Which sentence uses '低く' correctly?
'低く' can describe various actions happening at a low level.
What is the opposite of '低く'?
'高く' means 'highly' or 'at a high level', which is the opposite of '低く'.
The sentence '飛行機が低く飛んでいます。' means 'The airplane is flying lowly.'
'低く' modifies the verb '飛んでいます' (is flying) to indicate a low altitude.
'低く話してください' means 'Please speak loudly.'
'低く話してください' means 'Please speak lowly' or 'Please speak in a low voice', not loudly.
You can use '低く' to describe the level of a price.
'低く' can be used to describe a price being at a low level, for example '値段が低く設定されている' (The price is set low).
The voice is low.
The airplane flew low.
He lowered his head.
Read this aloud:
低い声で話してください。
Focus: ひくい (hikui)
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
この棚は低いです。
Focus: たな (tana)
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
ボールを低く投げてください。
Focus: なげて (nagete)
Tu as dit :
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Translate the following English sentence into Japanese, using 「低く」: The airplane flew low over the city.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
飛行機は街の上を低く飛んだ。
Complete the following sentence using 「低く」: 彼は＿＿＿ 声で話しました。(He spoke in a low voice.)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼は低く声で話しました。
Describe a situation where something is positioned or moving at a low level, using 「低く」.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
このテーブルは低く、座りやすいです。 (This table is low and easy to sit at.)
空を低く飛んでいるのは何ですか？ (What is flying low in the sky?)
Read this passage:
鳥が空を低く飛んでいます。とても近くに見えます。 (A bird is flying low in the sky. It looks very close.)
空を低く飛んでいるのは何ですか？ (What is flying low in the sky?)
文章に「鳥が空を低く飛んでいます」とあります。(The passage states, 'A bird is flying low in the sky.')
文章に「鳥が空を低く飛んでいます」とあります。(The passage states, 'A bird is flying low in the sky.')
なぜ田中さんの話を聞くのが難しいですか？ (Why is it difficult to hear Mr. Tanaka speak?)
Read this passage:
田中さんはいつも低く声で話すので、聞くのが難しいです。 (Mr. Tanaka always speaks in a low voice, so it's difficult to hear him.)
なぜ田中さんの話を聞くのが難しいですか？ (Why is it difficult to hear Mr. Tanaka speak?)
文章に「田中さんはいつも低く声で話すので」とあります。(The passage states, 'Mr. Tanaka always speaks in a low voice.')
文章に「田中さんはいつも低く声で話すので」とあります。(The passage states, 'Mr. Tanaka always speaks in a low voice.')
大きな船が橋を通れないのはなぜですか？ (Why can't large ships pass under the bridge?)
Read this passage:
その橋は低く、大きな船は通れません。 (That bridge is low, so large ships cannot pass under it.)
大きな船が橋を通れないのはなぜですか？ (Why can't large ships pass under the bridge?)
文章に「その橋は低く、大きな船は通れません」とあります。(The passage states, 'That bridge is low, so large ships cannot pass under it.')
文章に「その橋は低く、大きな船は通れません」とあります。(The passage states, 'That bridge is low, so large ships cannot pass under it.')
To say 'Please speak quietly', the adverb '低く' (lowly/quietly) comes before the verb it modifies, '話して' (speak). 'ください' is a polite request ending.
The subject '鳥が' (bird) comes first. '低く' (lowly) modifies the verb '飛んでいる' (is flying). '空を' (in the sky) specifies the location.
'その木は' (that tree) is the subject. '低く' (lowly/short) describes how it is growing. '生えています' (is growing) is the verb.
彼の声はとても___、何を言っているのか聞き取りにくい。
「低い」は声のトーンが低いことを表します。この文脈では、声が低くて聞き取りにくいという意味になります。
この地域は海抜が___、洪水のリスクが高い。
「低い」はここでは海抜が低いことを指し、洪水のリスクが高い原因となります。
その建物は、他の高層ビルと比べてずっと___。
他の高層ビルと比較して、その建物の高さが「低い」ことを表しています。
彼女の評価はまだ___ので、もっと努力が必要です。
「評価が低い」とは、まだ十分な評価を得ていないことを意味します。
気温が___と、体調を崩しやすくなる。
「気温が低い」は、寒い状況を表し、体調を崩しやすい原因となります。
彼の意見は、会議では___評価された。
「低く評価された」とは、その意見があまり重要視されなかった、または賛同を得られなかったことを意味します。
Choose the sentence where 「低く」 is used correctly:
「低く」 (hiku-ku) is an adverbial form of the adjective 「低い」 (hikui, low). It modifies verbs or other adjectives, indicating 'lowly' or 'at a low level.' In this sentence, it correctly modifies the verb 「話した」 (hanashita, spoke) to mean 'spoke in a low voice.'
Which of the following sentences uses 「低く」 to describe a physical position?
「低く」 is used here to describe the physical height at which the bird was flying, indicating a 'low' position in the air.
Select the sentence where 「低く」 refers to a humble attitude or position.
In this context, bowing one's head low is a gesture of humility or respect, making 「低く」 indicative of a humble attitude.
「低く」 can be used to describe the volume of sound. For example, 「音楽を低くする」 (to make the music low).
Yes, 「低く」 can modify verbs like 「する」 (suru, to do/make) to mean 'to lower' or 'make something low,' including sound volume. So, 「音楽を低くする」 means 'to lower the music volume.'
When referring to a low price, you can say 「値段が低く設定されている」 (The price is set lowly).
This is a correct usage. 「低く」 can modify verbs like 「設定されている」 (settei sareteiru, is set) to indicate that something (like a price) is at a low level.
「低く」 is primarily used for describing emotional states. For example, 「彼は気分が低く落ち込んだ」 (He felt lowly depressed).
While 「低く」 can be used metaphorically in some emotional contexts (e.g., 'his mood was low'), it is not its primary or most common use for emotional states. More often, it describes physical level, volume, or figurative low positions/attitudes.
The speaker is talking about a voice.
The speaker is describing the altitude of an airplane.
The speaker is giving an instruction about sitting.
Read this aloud:
その音は低く響いた。
Focus: ひくく (hikuku)
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Read this aloud:
彼はいつも低く見積もる。
Focus: みつもる (mitsumoru)
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
彼女は低くうなずいた。
Focus: うなずいた (unazuita)
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You are at a concert. Describe the sound of the bass guitar using the word 低く. Your description should be at least two sentences long.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
ベースの音が低く響いていて、体が振動するのを感じました。その低く重い音が、コンサート全体の雰囲気を盛り上げていました。 (The bass sound was resonating lowly, and I felt my body vibrating. That low, heavy sound was building up the atmosphere of the entire concert.)
Imagine you are describing a mountain range. How would you use 低く to talk about a specific part of it, like a valley or a foothills area? Write a sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
この山の谷間は他の場所よりも低く、常に日陰になっています。 (This mountain valley is lower than other places and is always in the shade.)
You are giving instructions to someone about where to place an object. Use 低く to indicate placing it at a low position. Write a short instruction.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
その箱はもっと低く、棚の下に置いてください。 (Please place that box lower, under the shelf.)
この文脈で「低く話す」とはどういう意味ですか？
Read this passage:
彼はいつも低く話すので、周りの人は彼の声を聞き取るのに苦労します。特に騒がしい場所では、彼の話す内容が全く聞こえません。
この文脈で「低く話す」とはどういう意味ですか？
文脈から、周りの人が聞き取りにくいとあるので、声のボリュームが小さいことを指します。 (From the context, it says that people around him have difficulty hearing, so it refers to the low volume of his voice.)
文脈から、周りの人が聞き取りにくいとあるので、声のボリュームが小さいことを指します。 (From the context, it says that people around him have difficulty hearing, so it refers to the low volume of his voice.)
なぜ大きな船はその橋の下を通れないのですか？
Read this passage:
その橋は川面からかなり低く建設されているため、大きな船は通ることができません。そのため、この川では小型船しか利用できません。
なぜ大きな船はその橋の下を通れないのですか？
パッセージに「橋は川面からかなり低く建設されているため」と明記されています。 (The passage clearly states, 'because the bridge is constructed quite low from the river surface.')
パッセージに「橋は川面からかなり低く建設されているため」と明記されています。 (The passage clearly states, 'because the bridge is constructed quite low from the river surface.')
この文脈で「自分を低く評価する」とはどういう意味ですか？
Read this passage:
彼女はいつも謙虚な態度で、自分を低く評価する傾向があります。しかし、周りの人々は彼女の能力を高く評価しています。
この文脈で「自分を低く評価する」とはどういう意味ですか？
謙虚な態度で、という前文から、自分自身の能力や価値を控えめに、あるいは過小に捉えることを意味します。 (From the preceding phrase 'with a humble attitude,' it means to view one's own abilities or worth modestly or underestimate them.)
謙虚な態度で、という前文から、自分自身の能力や価値を控えめに、あるいは過小に捉えることを意味します。 (From the preceding phrase 'with a humble attitude,' it means to view one's own abilities or worth modestly or underestimate them.)
This sentence asks someone to speak more softly or in a lower voice. 'もっと' means more, '低く' means lowly/at a low level, and '話してください' means please speak.
This sentence describes a bird flying very low. '鳥が' is the bird (subject marker), 'とても' means very, '低く' means low, and '飛んでいます' means is flying.
This sentence indicates that his work was rated lowly. '彼の仕事は' means his work (subject marker), '低く' means lowly, and '評価された' means was evaluated/rated.
風が___吹いていたので、窓を閉めました。
「低く」は「低いレベルで」や「穏やかに」という意味で使われます。風が穏やかに吹いていたため、窓を閉めたという文脈に合います。
彼の声は緊張で___なった。
緊張すると声が低くなることがあります。「低く」が適切な表現です。
教授は生徒に___もっと話すように促した。
「低く」は「謙虚に」や「控えめに」という意味でも使われます。教授が生徒にもっと謙虚に話すように促したという文脈で適切です。
飛行機は___雲の上を飛んでいた。
「低く」は「低い位置で」という意味で、雲の低い位置を飛んでいたという状況に合います。
彼は肩を___落とし、がっかりした様子だった。
「肩を落とす」という慣用句で、「がっかりする」という意味です。「低く」が適切です。
地面に___植えられた花は美しく咲いていた。
地面の低い位置に花が植えられている様子を表すので、「低く」が適切です。
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 彼の声はいつもとても___話します。
The sentence indicates that '彼の声' (his voice) is always speaking in a certain manner. '低く' means 'lowly' or 'at a low level,' which fits the context of someone speaking with a low voice. The other options do not fit the meaning.
Which sentence uses '低く' correctly?
'低く' modifies the verb '飛んだ' (flew), indicating the manner of flying. The other options use '低く' incorrectly or in a less natural way for the given context. For example, '歌を歌った' usually uses '低い声で' (with a low voice) rather than '低く歌った'.
The opposite of '低く' when describing volume would be:
When referring to volume or pitch, '低く' means 'lowly' or 'low pitch,' so its opposite would be '高く' (highly or high pitch).
「低く」は、高さが低い状態を表すときにのみ使われる。(‘Hikuku’ is only used when expressing a low state of height.)
While '低く' can describe physical height, it can also describe abstract concepts like volume (声が低く - low voice) or a humble attitude (頭を低くする - lower one's head). Therefore, it's not limited to only physical height.
「低く」は動詞を修飾する際に使われることが多い。(‘Hikuku’ is often used when modifying verbs.)
'低く' is an adverb derived from the adjective '低い' (hikui), and adverbs primarily modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. Examples include '低く飛ぶ' (fly low) or '低く話す' (speak low).
「低く」は「ゆっくり」と同じ意味である。(‘Hikuku’ has the same meaning as ‘yukkuri’.)
「低く」means 'lowly' or 'at a low level,' while 「ゆっくり」means 'slowly.' They have completely different meanings.
The singer sings very lowly.
His voice was low and difficult to hear.
Despite being rated lowly, the movie was a hit.
Read this aloud:
もっと低く座ってください。
Focus: 低く (ひくく)
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
その木は低く剪定された。
Focus: 剪定 (せんてい)
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
彼は低く身をかがめて進んだ。
Focus: かがめて (かがめて)
Tu as dit :
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Imagine you are describing a scene where the sun is setting over a mountain range. How would you use '低く' to describe the position of the sun in a short paragraph? (approx. 50 characters in Japanese)
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Sample answer
夕日が山の向こうに低く沈んでいく。空がオレンジ色に染まり始めた。
You are giving instructions to someone to lower their voice. How would you incorporate '低く' into your instruction? Write a sentence. (approx. 30 characters in Japanese)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
もう少し声を低くして話してください。
Describe a situation where someone is feeling down or in a low mood. Use '低く' to convey this feeling. Write two sentences. (approx. 60 characters in Japanese)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
今日はなんだか気分が低く、何もする気が起きない。こんな日はゆっくり休みたい。
この文章によると、いつ気温が最も低くなると予想されていますか？
Read this passage:
今日の天気予報は、午後から気温が低くなるだろうと伝えている。夕方にはさらに低くなり、夜には冷え込むそうだ。外出する際は、暖かい服装を心がけよう。
この文章によると、いつ気温が最も低くなると予想されていますか？
文章の「夜には冷え込むそうだ」という部分が、夜に最も気温が低くなることを示しています。
文章の「夜には冷え込むそうだ」という部分が、夜に最も気温が低くなることを示しています。
この人物が意見を聞いてもらえない主な理由は何ですか？
Read this passage:
彼はいつも自信なさげに、声を低くして話す。そのため、彼の意見はしばしば他の人に聞いてもらえないことがある。もっと堂々と話せば、周りの評価も変わるだろう。
この人物が意見を聞いてもらえない主な理由は何ですか？
「声を低くして話す。そのため、彼の意見はしばしば他の人に聞いてもらえない」とあるため、声を低く話すことが主な理由です。
「声を低くして話す。そのため、彼の意見はしばしば他の人に聞いてもらえない」とあるため、声を低く話すことが主な理由です。
この橋はいつ見ることができますか？
Read this passage:
その橋は、川の水位が低くなったときにだけ姿を現す。普段は水面下に隠れているため、地元の人でさえその存在を知らない人も多い。珍しい光景を見ようと、多くの観光客がその時期を待っている。
この橋はいつ見ることができますか？
「川の水位が低くなったときにだけ姿を現す」と明記されています。
「川の水位が低くなったときにだけ姿を現す」と明記されています。
This sentence means 'Please lower your voice.' 「声を低くする」 (koe o hikuku suru) is a common phrase.
This means 'He spoke in a low voice.' The adverb 低く (hikuku) modifies the verb 話しました (hanashimashita).
This sentence means 'The airplane is flying low.' 低く (hikuku) describes how the plane is flying.
彼の声が___なって、聞き取りにくかった。
文脈から、声が聞こえにくくなったのは「低く」なったためと推測されます。'高く' は逆の意味、'早く' '遅く' は声の速さに関わるため不適切です。
教授は生徒たちに、もっと謙虚に、そして___姿勢で学ぶようにと助言した。
「謙虚に」という言葉と対応するのは「低く」姿勢で学ぶ、つまり腰を低くして学ぶという態度を表します。
彼女は___評価されることを望まず、地道な努力を続けた。
「地道な努力を続けた」という文脈から、彼女は「低く」評価されることを望まず、つまり目立つことなく、というニュアンスで使われています。
その問題は、世間の関心が___評価されている可能性がある。
「世間の関心が」という主語に対して、評価が「低い」可能性を示唆しています。この場合、「低く」評価されているという受動態が適切です。
彼はいつも___物事を考える傾向があり、常に最悪の事態を想定している。
「最悪の事態を想定している」という文脈から、物事を「低く」考える、つまり悲観的に考える傾向があることを示しています。
新入社員は、先輩社員の指導を___受け止め、熱心に業務に取り組んだ。
指導を「低く」受け止める、というのは謙虚に、素直に受け止めるという意味合いになります。
The singer started singing lowly on stage to captivate the audience.
He answered in a lowly, whispering voice, as if to hide his nervousness.
From a lowly crouched position, he instantly pounced on his enemy.
Read this aloud:
その国の経済成長率は、予想よりも低く推移している。
Focus: 低く推移 (ひくくすいい)
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Read this aloud:
彼の声は、怒りで低く響き渡った。
Focus: 低く響き渡った (ひくくひびきわたった)
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
飛行機は、低く雲の中を飛行している。
Focus: 低く飛行 (ひくくひこう)
Tu as dit :
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This phrase means 'to speak in a low voice.' The particles and verb conjugation follow standard Japanese grammar.
This means 'to duck one's head and pass through.' '頭を低くする' (atama o hikuku suru) is a common way to express lowering one's head.
This translates to 'the airplane flies low.' '低く飛ぶ' (hikuku tobu) is the correct adverbial form for 'to fly low.'
彼の声が___なったとき、私たちは皆耳を傾けた。
文脈から、声が「低く」なったときに耳を傾けるのが自然です。
その問題は、期待よりも___評価された。
期待よりも評価が「低い」ことを表すので、「低く」が適切です。
会議の前に、彼は姿勢を___して、真剣な態度を示した。
真剣な態度を示すために姿勢を「低く」するのが自然な表現です。
彼の自信は、失敗の後に___なってしまった。
失敗の後、自信が「低く」なるという文脈です。
その歌手は、観客を魅了するために声を___歌った。
観客を魅了するために声を「低く」して歌う、という表現が適切です。
彼女は、子供の目線に合わせて___かがんだ。
子供の目線に合わせるためには、「低く」かがむのが自然です。
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 彼の声はいつもとても___話します。
The sentence indicates 'his voice always speaks very...', and '低く' (lowly) fits best to describe a voice being low in pitch or volume. The other options '高く' (highly), '速く' (quickly), and 'ゆっくり' (slowly) do not fit the context of a voice being 'lowly'.
Which sentence correctly uses '低く' to describe an action?
All three sentences correctly use '低く'. '彼は頭を低く下げて、部屋を出た。' (He bowed his head low and left the room.) describes lowering one's head. '彼女は低く歌を歌った。' (She sang the song softly/lowly.) describes singing in a low pitch or volume. 'その飛行機は低く飛んでいた。' (The airplane was flying low.) describes flying at a low altitude. Therefore, all options are correct.
When someone says, 「姿勢を低くしてください。」, what are they most likely asking you to do?
「姿勢を低くしてください。」 directly translates to 'Please lower your posture.' This is a common instruction in various contexts, such as sports, safety, or even showing respect, where one needs to physically lower their body. While '低く' can relate to humility or a low voice, in the context of '姿勢' (posture), it specifically refers to physical lowering.
「低く」 always refers to something being low in physical height.
False. While '低く' often refers to physical height, it can also describe things like a low-pitched voice (声が低い), a humble attitude (姿勢を低くする), or even a low standard/level. Therefore, it does not *always* refer to physical height.
You can use 「低く」 to describe someone speaking in a soft or hushed tone.
True. 「声を低くする」 (to lower one's voice) or 「低く話す」 (to speak lowly/softly) are common expressions in Japanese to describe speaking in a soft, hushed, or low-pitched tone.
If a price is described as 「低く」, it means it is expensive.
False. If a price is described as 「低く」 (e.g., 価格が低い), it means it is low, inexpensive, or cheap. It is the opposite of expensive.
The speaker is talking about someone's low voice.
The speaker describes a person avoiding an attack with a certain posture.
The speaker is describing a plane's flight path in relation to clouds.
Read this aloud:
もっと低く飛んでください。
Focus: ひくく
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Read this aloud:
その木は低く剪定された。
Focus: ひくくせんてい
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Read this aloud:
彼は低い声でささやいた。
Focus: ひくくこえ
Tu as dit :
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Imagine you are describing a person who is very humble and doesn't boast about their achievements. Write a short paragraph in Japanese, using '低く' to describe their demeanor or how they present themselves. Focus on conveying their modesty.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼は成功しても、常に自分を低く評価し、謙虚な態度で周囲に接しています。決して自慢することなく、静かに自分の仕事をこなすのが彼の流儀です。
You are writing a review for a play. One of the actors delivered a particularly nuanced performance, speaking with a very subdued and almost melancholic tone. Describe this aspect of their performance using '低く'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
主演女優の声は、感情を低く抑えた語り口で、登場人物の深い悲しみを繊細に表現していました。その演技は観客の心に深く響きました。
Describe a situation where a sound, like music or a voice, is deliberately kept at a low volume to create a specific atmosphere or to avoid disturbing others. Use '低く' in your description.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
カフェでは、客が集中できるように、BGMを低く抑えて流しています。そのおかげで、誰もが落ち着いて自分の時間を過ごすことができます。
この文章から、熟練の職人のどのような姿勢が読み取れますか？
Read this passage:
長年の経験を持つ熟練の職人は、どんなに素晴らしい作品を完成させても、決して奢ることなく、常に自分を低く評価し、さらなる技術向上に努める姿勢を崩さない。彼の工房は、その謙虚な態度が多くの弟子たちにも影響を与えている。
この文章から、熟練の職人のどのような姿勢が読み取れますか？
文章中「常に自分を低く評価し、さらなる技術向上に努める姿勢を崩さない」とあり、謙虚な姿勢が読み取れます。
文章中「常に自分を低く評価し、さらなる技術向上に努める姿勢を崩さない」とあり、謙虚な姿勢が読み取れます。
この村の夜の雰囲気について、最も適切に描写している選択肢はどれですか？
Read this passage:
山あいの小さな村では、夜になると町の喧騒が届かず、鳥の声も風の音も低く響き渡る。人工的な光も少なく、星空が驚くほど鮮明に見える。都会の生活とは一線を画した、穏やかな時間が流れている。
この村の夜の雰囲気について、最も適切に描写している選択肢はどれですか？
文章中「町の喧騒が届かず、鳥の声も風の音も低く響き渡る」とあり、静かで穏やかな自然の雰囲気が伝わります。
文章中「町の喧騒が届かず、鳥の声も風の音も低く響き渡る」とあり、静かで穏やかな自然の雰囲気が伝わります。
リーダーのどのような行動が、チームの信頼と団結力を高めていると述べられていますか？
Read this passage:
彼はリーダーとしての重責を担いながらも、決して威張ることなく、部下と同じ目線で物事を考え、意見を低く聞いてくれる。その姿勢が、チーム全体の信頼と団結力を高めている要因だ。
リーダーのどのような行動が、チームの信頼と団結力を高めていると述べられていますか？
文章中「部下と同じ目線で物事を考え、意見を低く聞いてくれる」とあり、この行動が信頼と団結力を高めていると説明されています。
文章中「部下と同じ目線で物事を考え、意見を低く聞いてくれる」とあり、この行動が信頼と団結力を高めていると説明されています。
This sentence describes someone speaking quietly due to a lack of confidence. 「自信なく」 (without confidence) modifies how he spoke, and 「低く」 (lowly/quietly) describes the manner of speech.
This sentence explains that a building was designed to be low so as not to spoil the surrounding landscape. 「周囲の景観を損なわないよう」 (so as not to spoil the surrounding landscape) is the reason for the low design, and 「低く」 (low) modifies 「設計された」 (was designed).
This sentence describes someone entering a room with their head bowed low. 「頭を低くして」 (with his head low) indicates the posture upon entering the room.
/ 150 correct
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Summary
「低く」 (hikuku) is an adverb that means 'lowly' or 'at a low level,' and it's used to modify verbs and adjectives to describe the manner or state of an action.
- Use 低く to describe something being low in position.
- Use 低く to describe something being low in volume.
- Use 低く to describe an action done at a low level.
Basic Meaning of 低く
Understand that 低く (hikuku) primarily means lowly or at a low level. It's often used to describe actions or states that are physically low.
Adverbial Form
Remember that 低く is the adverbial form of the adjective 低い (hikui), meaning 'low'. This means it modifies verbs or other adjectives.
Use with Verbs
You'll frequently see 低く used with verbs to describe how an action is performed. For example, 低く飛ぶ (hikuku tobu) means to fly low.
Describing Voice
It can also describe a low voice. For instance, 低く話す (hikuku hanasu) means to speak in a low voice or speak softly.
Exemple
声を低くして話した。
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