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A2 noun #3,000 le plus courant 6 min de lecture

洗濯機

sentakuki
At the A1 level, you just need to recognize that 'sentakuki' is the machine used to wash clothes. You should be able to point to it and say 'Kore wa sentakuki desu' (This is a washing machine). You might learn it alongside other basic household items like 'reizouko' (refrigerator) and 'terebi' (TV). Focus on the basic 'Noun + desu' structure and the verb 'mawasu' (to run/start). It is a very practical word because you will see it in every home and hotel.
At the A2 level, you can describe what the washing machine does and talk about your daily routine. You can say 'Mainichi sentakuki o mawashimasu' (I run the washing machine every day). You should also know the word for laundry items, 'sentakumono,' and how to say you are putting them in the machine ('sentakuki ni ireru'). You might start noticing the different buttons on the machine, like 'start' (sutaato) and 'power' (dengen).
At the B1 level, you can handle more complex situations, such as explaining a problem with the machine. You can say 'Sentakuki no choushi ga warui desu' (The washing machine is not in good condition). You can understand basic instructions in a manual, such as water levels (suii) and different modes like 'soft' (teinei) or 'speedy' (isogi). You can also discuss the merits of different types of machines, like drum-style versus vertical-style.
At the B2 level, you can discuss the technical specifications and environmental impact of washing machines. You might use terms like 'sessui' (water-saving) or 'shou-ene' (energy-saving). You can explain the 'heat pump' drying technology or the benefits of 'Ag+ ion' antibacterial cycles. You are comfortable reading complex error codes (eraa koudo) and can call a repair technician to describe the specific mechanical failure in detail.
At the C1 level, you can engage in nuanced discussions about the evolution of domestic technology in Japan. You can talk about how the 'sentakuki' changed the social role of women in the Showa era or discuss the market share of major brands like Panasonic, Hitachi, and Sharp. You understand the cultural nuances of why Japanese people prefer hanging clothes outside despite having high-tech dryers, and you can use the word in metaphorical or academic contexts regarding household labor.
At the C2 level, you possess a near-native command of the vocabulary. You can understand technical patents for new washing machine mechanisms or literary descriptions that use the sound of a washing machine to evoke a specific domestic atmosphere. You can debate the economic implications of the 'smart home' integration where the 'sentakuki' communicates with the power grid to optimize energy consumption. Your vocabulary includes archaic terms for old washing methods compared to modern mechanical ones.
Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

洗濯機 en 30 secondes

  • 洗濯機 (Sentakuki) is the Japanese word for washing machine, a core household appliance.
  • The word is a compound of 'wash' (洗), 'rinse' (濯), and 'machine' (機).
  • Commonly pronounced 'sentakki' in casual speech, it is essential for daily life in Japan.
  • Key verbs include 'mawasu' (to run) and 'ireru' (to put in clothes).

The Japanese word 洗濯機 (せんたくき - sentakuki) is a compound noun that translates directly to 'washing machine.' It is an essential household appliance in modern Japanese life. The word is composed of three kanji: 洗 (wash), 濯 (rinse/laundry), and 機 (machine). Together, they form a specific term for the device used to clean clothes and linens. In daily conversation, you might hear it pronounced slightly differently as sentakki, which is a common phonological contraction. Understanding this word involves more than just knowing the object; it involves understanding the daily rhythm of Japanese domestic life, where space is often limited and technology is highly advanced.

Etymology
Derived from the Chinese-origin Sinitic roots for washing and mechanical devices.
Modern Usage
Refers to both top-loading (tate-gata) and front-loading (dorumu-shiki) units.
Phonetic Variation
Sentakuki (Standard) vs. Sentakki (Casual/Colloquial).

新しい洗濯機を買ったので、服がとても綺麗になります。 (I bought a new washing machine, so my clothes get very clean.)

The evolution of the sentakuki in Japan reflects the country's technological progress. From the early manual rollers to the high-tech 'Heat Pump' drying models of today, the machine is a centerpiece of the Japanese home. Because many Japanese apartments do not have space for separate dryers, the 'Wash-and-Dry' (sentaku-kansouki) combo is extremely popular. This word is foundational for anyone living in Japan, as you will encounter it in appliance stores, apartment listings, and daily chores.

洗濯機が壊れてしまったので、コインランドリーに行きました。 (The washing machine broke, so I went to the coin laundry.)

Kanji Breakdown: 洗
To wash or clean with water. Also used in 'washroom' (washiki).
Kanji Breakdown: 濯
Specifically refers to rinsing or the act of doing laundry.
Kanji Breakdown: 機
Mechanism, machine, or opportunity.

Using the word 洗濯機 involves understanding the verbs that typically accompany it. The most common verb is mawasu (to turn/rotate), as in sentakuki o mawasu, which means 'to run the washing machine.' While you can say tsukau (to use), mawasu is the idiomatic choice for starting a cycle. When the machine is finished, you might say it 'finished' (owatta). If the machine is vibrating too much, you use the term yureru.

寝る前に洗濯機を回しておきます。 (I will run the washing machine before I go to sleep.)

Grammatically, sentakuki functions as a standard noun. It can be the subject of a sentence (followed by ga) or the object (followed by o). In more formal contexts, such as a manual or a store description, you might see it referred to as sentaku-ki with a clear emphasis on the 'ki' suffix. When describing the type of machine, you place the descriptor before the noun: zen-jidou sentakuki (fully automatic washing machine).

Verb Pairing: Mawasu
To run/start the machine (lit. to turn).
Verb Pairing: Ireru
To put (clothes) into the machine.
Verb Pairing: Naosu
To repair the machine.

この洗濯機は乾燥機能も付いています。 (This washing machine also has a drying function.)

You will encounter the word 洗濯機 in several primary environments. The most common is the home (katei). Family members will discuss who is using the machine or if the laundry is done. In electronic stores like Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera, the sentakuki corner is a major section where staff will explain the differences between 'Ag+ Ion' cleaning and 'Steam' cycles.

店員：こちらの洗濯機は節水タイプです。 (Staff: This washing machine is a water-saving type.)

Another common location is the 'Coin Laundry' (koin randorii). While the facility is called a laundry, the individual units are still called sentakuki. You will also hear it in real estate contexts. When looking for an apartment, the agent might mention the sentakuki-okiba (washing machine placement area), which is a crucial detail in Japanese housing because many older apartments have the machine outside on the balcony or in a very specific waterproof tray called a waterproof pan.

Real Estate
Sentakuki-okiba (washing machine space).
Appliance Store
Kaden-ryouhanten (electronics retailer).
Public Spaces
Coin laundry facilities.

One of the most frequent mistakes for learners is the pronunciation. As mentioned, many native speakers say sentakki. If you say sentakuki very slowly, it sounds a bit robotic. However, writing it as sentakki in formal documents is incorrect; the kanji remains 洗濯機 and the standard reading is sentakuki. Another mistake is confusing sentakuki (the machine) with sentaku-mono (the laundry/clothes to be washed). You don't 'wash the washing machine' when you mean you are doing laundry.

Incorrect: 洗濯機を洗います。 (I wash the washing machine - implies cleaning the appliance itself.)
Correct: 洗濯をします。 (I do laundry.)

Learners also struggle with the counter for machines. While you can use hitotsu for one machine, the correct counter for appliances and machines is dai. So, 'one washing machine' is sentakuki ichi-dai. Using mai (counter for flat objects) or ko (general counter) is a common error. Additionally, don't confuse sentakuki with soujiki (vacuum cleaner), as they both end in ki and are common household appliances.

Confusing Nouns
Sentakuki (Machine) vs. Sentakumono (Laundry items).
Wrong Counter
Using 'ko' instead of 'dai'.
Phonetic Slip
Confusing 'Sentaku' (laundry) with 'Sentaku' (choice/selection - written 選択).

There are several words related to 洗濯機 that a learner should know to navigate the world of Japanese housework. First is 乾燥機 (kansouki), which is a clothes dryer. While many modern Japanese machines are combos, standalone dryers still exist. Then there is 脱水機 (dassuiki), which is a spin-dryer or centrifuge. In older days, these were separate units. Another related term is 食洗機 (shokusenki), which is short for shokki-araigaki (dishwasher). Notice the common ki (machine) suffix.

このマンションには乾燥機がありません。 (This apartment does not have a dryer.)

For the act of washing itself, you have 手洗い (tearai), which means hand-washing. If you are looking for detergent, you need 洗剤 (senzai). If you need fabric softener, look for 柔軟剤 (juunanzai). Understanding these terms helps you differentiate between the machine itself and the process or supplies required to use it. Also, クリーニング (kuriiningu) refers to professional dry cleaning, not using your home washing machine.

Kansouki
Dryer. Often integrated into the washing machine.
Shokusenki
Dishwasher. 'Shoku' (food/dishes) + 'sen' (wash) + 'ki' (machine).
Soujiki
Vacuum cleaner. 'Souji' (cleaning) + 'ki' (machine).

How Formal Is It?

Formel

""

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Exemples par niveau

1

これは洗濯機です。

This is a washing machine.

Basic 'A is B' structure.

2

洗濯機はどこですか？

Where is the washing machine?

Asking for location with 'doko'.

3

洗濯機を使います。

I use the washing machine.

Direct object marker 'o'.

4

新しい洗濯機です。

It is a new washing machine.

Adjective 'atarashii' modifying a noun.

5

洗濯機がありません。

There is no washing machine.

Negative existence with 'arimasen'.

6

洗濯機を回します。

I will run the washing machine.

Standard idiom for starting laundry.

7

大きな洗濯機ですね。

It's a big washing machine, isn't it?

Particle 'ne' for seeking agreement.

8

洗濯機の中に服があります。

There are clothes inside the washing machine.

Location particle 'no naka ni'.

1

洗濯機に洗剤を入れます。

I put detergent into the washing machine.

Destination particle 'ni'.

2

洗濯機が止まりました。

The washing machine stopped.

Past tense of 'tomaru'.

3

この洗濯機は安いです。

This washing machine is cheap.

Demonstrative 'kono'.

4

洗濯機を修理してください。

Please repair the washing machine.

Request form '~te kudasai'.

5

洗濯機の使い方がわかりません。

I don't know how to use the washing machine.

Compound noun 'tsukaikata' (way of use).

6

洗濯機を回してから出かけます。

I will go out after running the washing machine.

Sequence '~te kara'.

7

古い洗濯機を捨てました。

I threw away the old washing machine.

Past tense of 'suteru'.

8

洗濯機はベランダにあります。

The washing machine is on the balcony.

Location 'ni arimasu'.

1

洗濯機の音がうるさくて眠れません。

The washing machine is so noisy I can't sleep.

Potential negative 'nemurenai'.

2

ドラム式の洗濯機は節水に役立ちます。

Drum-type washing machines help save water.

Noun + 'ni yakudatsu' (useful for).

3

洗濯機が故障したので、コインランドリーに行かなければなりません。

Since the washing machine broke, I have to go to the coin laundry.

Obligation '~nakereba narimasen'.

4

この洗濯機は乾燥まで自動でやってくれます。

This washing machine does everything automatically up to drying.

Benefactive form '~te kureru'.

5

洗濯機を買う前に、サイズを測っておいたほうがいいですよ。

You should measure the size before buying a washing machine.

Advice '~ta hou ga ii'.

6

最近の洗濯機はスマートフォンで操作できるものもあります。

Some recent washing machines can be operated with a smartphone.

Potential form 'sousa dekiru'.

7

洗濯機のフィルターを掃除するのを忘れていました。

I had forgotten to clean the washing machine filter.

Nominalizer 'no' + 'o wasureru'.

8

引っ越しの時、洗濯機の設置をお願いしました。

When I moved, I asked for the installation of the washing machine.

Time marker 'no toki'.

1

洗濯機の振動を抑えるために、ゴムマットを敷きました。

I laid down a rubber mat to suppress the washing machine's vibration.

Purpose 'tame ni'.

2

この洗濯機は、衣類の量に合わせて水量を自動的に調節します。

This washing machine automatically adjusts the water volume according to the amount of clothes.

'~ni awasete' (according to).

3

中古の洗濯機を購入する際は、保証期間を確認すべきです。

When purchasing a used washing machine, you should check the warranty period.

'~subeki' (should).

4

洗濯機の排水ホースが詰まって、水が溢れてしまいました。

The washing machine's drain hose got clogged, and water overflowed.

Regret/completion '~te shimatta'.

5

最新モデルの洗濯機は、以前のものに比べて消費電力が大幅に削減されています。

The latest model washing machines have significantly reduced power consumption compared to previous ones.

'~ni kurabete' (compared to).

6

洗濯機を長持ちさせるためには、定期的な槽洗浄が欠かせません。

To make a washing machine last longer, regular tub cleaning is essential.

Causative 'nagamochi saseru'.

7

縦型の洗濯機は、泥汚れを落とす洗浄力が高いと言われています。

Vertical washing machines are said to have high cleaning power for removing mud stains.

Passive report 'to iwarete iru'.

8

洗濯機の蛇口を閉め忘れると、水漏れの原因になります。

Forgetting to close the washing machine faucet can cause water leaks.

Conditional '~to'.

1

洗濯機の普及は、家事労働の負担を劇的に軽減させた歴史的転換点であった。

The spread of washing machines was a historical turning point that dramatically reduced the burden of domestic labor.

Formal written style (da/de aru).

2

メーカー各社は、洗濯機の静音性能を競い合っており、深夜の洗濯も可能になった。

Various manufacturers are competing over the quietness of washing machines, making laundry at midnight possible.

Continuous action 'kisoi-atte iru'.

3

洗濯機のAI機能が、洗剤の最適な投入量を判断し、無駄を省く時代が到来した。

An era has arrived where the AI functions of washing machines determine the optimal amount of detergent to add, eliminating waste.

Subject marker 'ga' with complex predicate.

4

共働き世帯の増加に伴い、洗濯機には時短と乾燥機能の両立が強く求められている。

With the increase in dual-income households, there is a strong demand for washing machines that balance time-saving and drying functions.

'~ni tomonai' (along with).

5

洗濯機の内部で繁殖する黒カビは、アレルギーの原因となるため注意を要する。

Black mold that grows inside washing machines requires caution as it can cause allergies.

'~o yousuru' (requires).

6

都市部の狭小住宅においては、洗濯機の設置スペースの確保が設計上の課題となる。

In small urban dwellings, securing space for washing machine installation becomes a design challenge.

'~ni oite wa' (in/at).

7

洗濯機のサブスクリプションサービスは、初期費用を抑えたい若年層に支持されている。

Washing machine subscription services are supported by young people who want to keep initial costs down.

Passive 'shiji sarete iru'.

8

洗濯機という文明の利器を享受しつつも、日本人は依然として天日干しに固執する傾向がある。

While enjoying the convenience of the washing machine, Japanese people still tend to persist in sun-drying clothes.

'~tsutsu mo' (while/despite).

1

洗濯機のドラム回転における流体力学的解析が、洗浄効率の向上に寄与している。

Fluid dynamic analysis of washing machine drum rotation contributes to the improvement of cleaning efficiency.

Technical academic jargon.

2

高度経済成長期の「三種の神器」の一つとして、洗濯機は日本人の生活様式を根底から変えた。

As one of the 'Three Sacred Treasures' of the high economic growth period, the washing machine fundamentally changed the Japanese lifestyle.

Historical reference.

3

洗濯機の振動が階下に響くという騒音トラブルは、集合住宅における普遍的な課題である。

Noise disputes involving washing machine vibrations echoing downstairs are a universal issue in collective housing.

Abstract noun usage.

4

洗剤レス洗濯機の開発は、環境負荷低減に向けた究極のソリューションとして期待されたが、普及には至っていない。

The development of detergent-less washing machines was expected as the ultimate solution for reducing environmental impact, but it has not reached widespread adoption.

'~ni wa itatte inai' (has not reached).

5

洗濯機の蓋を開けた瞬間に漂う洗剤の香りは、平穏な日常の象徴とも言えるだろう。

The scent of detergent wafting out the moment you open the washing machine lid could be called a symbol of peaceful daily life.

Poetic/Literary conjecture 'darou'.

6

マイクロプラスチック問題の文脈において、洗濯機からの繊維流出を抑制する技術が急務となっている。

In the context of the microplastic problem, technology to suppress fiber runoff from washing machines has become an urgent matter.

Environmental policy terminology.

7

洗濯機の故障が生活のリズムをこれほどまでに狂わせるとは、皮肉なものである。

It is ironic that a washing machine breakdown can disrupt the rhythm of life to such an extent.

Emphatic 'kore hodo made ni'.

8

IoT化された洗濯機が収集するビッグデータは、消費者のライフスタイルを浮き彫りにする。

The big data collected by IoT-enabled washing machines highlights the lifestyles of consumers.

Modern tech terminology.

Collocations courantes

洗濯機を回す (Run the machine)
洗濯機に入れる (Put in the machine)
洗濯機が壊れる (Machine breaks)
洗濯機を直す (Fix the machine)
洗濯機を買い替える (Replace the machine)
洗濯機の音 (Machine noise)
洗濯機の蓋 (Machine lid)
洗濯機の蛇口 (Machine faucet)
洗濯機のフィルター (Machine filter)
洗濯機の設置 (Machine installation)

Phrases Courantes

洗濯機が回っている (The machine is running)

洗濯機が終わった (The machine finished)

洗濯機を予約する (Set a timer on the machine)

洗濯機の中を確認する (Check inside the machine)

洗濯機を掃除する (Clean the machine itself)

洗濯機がガタガタ言う (The machine is rattling)

洗濯機から出す (Take out of the machine)

洗濯機を回し忘れる (Forget to run the machine)

洗濯機が止まらない (The machine won't stop)

洗濯機の使い心地 (The feel/usability of the machine)

Souvent confondu avec

洗濯機 vs 掃除機 (Soujiki - Vacuum cleaner)

洗濯機 vs 選択 (Sentaku - Choice)

洗濯機 vs 乾燥機 (Kansouki - Dryer)

Expressions idiomatiques

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

Facile à confondre

洗濯機 vs 掃除機

洗濯機 vs 食洗機

洗濯機 vs 扇風機

洗濯機 vs 印刷機

洗濯機 vs 加湿器

Structures de phrases

Comment l'utiliser

placement

In Japan, washing machines are often placed in the 'datsuijo' (changing room).

lint traps

Japanese machines have lint filters inside the drum that need frequent cleaning.

water temp

Most Japanese washing machines use cold water by default.

Erreurs courantes
  • Saying 'Sentaku-ki' with a long 'u' like 'koo'.
  • Using 'Sentaku-ki o suru'.
  • Calling the laundry 'Sentakuki'.
  • Writing '洗濯機' as '選択機'.
  • Counting machines as 'hitotsu, futatsu'.

Astuces

Clean the Filter

Always clean the lint filter after every few washes to prevent clogs and keep the machine efficient.

Use the Timer

Set the 'yoyaku' timer so your laundry finishes right when you get home to prevent it from smelling damp.

Measure the Pan

Before buying, measure the 'waterproof pan' in your apartment to ensure the machine fits.

Reuse Bath Water

Use the 'furo-sui' hose to save money and water by using the previous night's bath water.

Ground the Plug

Ensure the green grounding wire is attached to the outlet to prevent electric shocks in the damp washroom.

Laundry Nets

Use 'sentaku-netto' (laundry nets) for delicate clothes to protect them from the machine's agitation.

Check the Forecast

In Japan, check the 'sentaku shisu' (laundry index) on the weather report to see if it's a good day to wash.

Night Washing

Avoid running the machine after 9 PM if you live in an apartment with thin walls to avoid noise complaints.

Leave the Lid Open

After a wash, leave the lid open for a while to let the drum dry out and prevent mold growth.

Error Codes

If the machine stops, look at the display. Codes like 'U14' usually mean the water isn't flowing.

Mémorise-le

Origine du mot

Contexte culturel

Shared washing machines in 'Gaijin Houses' or dorms are common social friction points.

During the rainy season, people use 'heya-boshi' (indoor drying) detergents in their machines.

Transitioned from twin-tub (nisoushiki) to fully automatic in the 80s.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"洗濯機は何曜日に使いますか？ (What day of the week do you use the washing machine?)"

"おすすめの洗濯機はありますか？ (Do you have a recommended washing machine?)"

"洗濯機が壊れたらどうしますか？ (What do you do if the washing machine breaks?)"

"最近の洗濯機は高いですね。 (Recent washing machines are expensive, aren't they?)"

"洗濯機の中に何か忘れていませんか？ (Did you forget something in the washing machine?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、洗濯機を何回回しましたか？ (How many times did you run the washing machine today?)

新しい洗濯機を買うなら、どんな機能が欲しいですか？ (If you buy a new washing machine, what functions do you want?)

洗濯機がない生活を想像してみてください。 (Imagine a life without a washing machine.)

洗濯機の音を聞きながら考えたこと。 (Things I thought about while listening to the sound of the washing machine.)

日本の洗濯機と自分の国の洗濯機の違い。 (Differences between Japanese washing machines and those in my country.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is energy-efficient and most Japanese detergents are formulated to work well in cold water. Also, many people reuse bathwater (furo-sui) for the wash cycle.

It is the colloquial pronunciation of 'sentakuki'. It is very common in daily speech.

Yes, in many older Japanese apartments, the only space for a washing machine is on the balcony. You may need a cover to protect it from the sun.

It means 'timer' or 'reservation'. You can set it to finish your laundry at a specific time, like when you wake up.

It allows the machine to pump leftover warm water from the bathtub to save water during the wash cycle.

Use a 'sou-senjou' (tub cleaning) cycle with a special liquid cleaner to remove mold and buildup.

It is a front-loading washing machine, which is generally more expensive but uses less water and is gentler on clothes.

It is a user-friendly feature in Japanese appliances to signal the end of a task without a harsh buzzing sound.

It is for delicate items like sweaters or silk, often labeled as 'oshare-gi' or 'teinei'.

Most machines have a small drawer or a tray near the top. Look for the label '洗剤' (senzai).

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