浸す
浸す in 30 Seconds
- 浸す (hitasu) means to soak or dip something in liquid.
- Used in cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
- Distinguish from 浸かる (fukaru - to be soaked).
Understanding "浸す" (Hitasu)
The Japanese verb 浸す (hitasu) is a versatile word that describes the action of immersing something in a liquid. It can range from briefly dipping an item to submerging it for a longer period, often for the purpose of softening, cleaning, flavoring, or cooling. The nuance depends heavily on the context and the duration of the immersion.
- Core Meaning
- To make something wet by putting it in liquid; to soak or dip.
- Common Scenarios
- Cooking (e.g., soaking rice, vegetables, or dried ingredients), cleaning (e.g., soaking laundry or dishes), personal care (e.g., soaking feet), and artistic or craft activities (e.g., dipping brushes in paint or paper in water).
パンを牛乳に浸すと、とても柔らかくなります。Pan o gyūnyū ni hitasu to, totemo yawarakaku narimasu. (When you soak bread in milk, it becomes very soft.)
In culinary arts, 浸す is frequently used. For instance, when preparing certain types of bread or cakes, dry ingredients might be 浸す (soaked) in liquids like milk or eggs to achieve a desired texture. Similarly, dried foods such as mushrooms or seaweed are often 浸す (soaked) in water to rehydrate them before cooking. This process is crucial for unlocking their full flavor and texture.
Beyond the kitchen, 浸す appears in contexts related to hygiene and care. You might 浸す (soak) your feet in warm water to relax, or 浸す (dip) a cloth in disinfectant to clean a surface. In arts and crafts, a paintbrush might be 浸す (dipped) in water to rinse it or in paint to apply color. The verb captures this fundamental action of submersion.
- Grammatical Note
- 浸す is a Group 1 (u-verb) in Japanese, meaning its conjugation follows a specific pattern, often ending in -asu, -ashi, -au, -anai, -eta, -eru, -o, etc., depending on the grammatical context.
Understanding the various applications of 浸す will significantly enhance your comprehension of everyday Japanese conversations, particularly those related to daily routines, food, and hobbies.
洗濯物を洗剤水に浸すと、汚れが落ちやすくなります。Sentakumono o senzai sui ni hitasu to, yogore ga ochiyasuku narimasu. (Soaking laundry in soapy water makes it easier for dirt to come off.)
Putting "浸す" (Hitasu) into Practice
Mastering the usage of 浸す (hitasu) involves understanding its grammatical behavior and how it connects with other words in a sentence. As a Group 1 verb (u-verb), it conjugates in predictable ways, allowing for a wide range of expressions. Let's explore various sentence structures and contexts where 浸す is commonly found.
- Basic Structure: Subject + Object + に + 浸す
- The most straightforward pattern involves the subject performing the action of soaking an object in a liquid. The particle に (ni) indicates the liquid into which the object is immersed.
私は野菜を水に浸しました。Watashi wa yasai o mizu ni hitashi mashita. (I soaked the vegetables in water.)
The plain past tense form 浸した (hishita) is used here. The polite form is 浸しました (hishita shimashita).
- Purposeful Soaking: ~ために (Tame ni)
- To explain the reason for soaking, you can use the ために (tame ni) structure.
乾燥したきのこを美味しくするために、ぬるま湯に浸してください。Kansō shita kinoko o oishiku suru tame ni, nurumayu ni hitashite kudasai. (Please soak the dried mushrooms in lukewarm water to make them delicious.)
Here, 浸して (hishite) is the te-form, connecting the action of soaking to the subsequent instruction.
- Describing the State: ~ている (Te iru)
- To describe a situation where something is currently being soaked or has been soaked and remains in the liquid.
お米が水に浸かっています。Okome ga mizu ni fukatte imasu. (The rice is soaking in water.)
Note the conjugation to 浸かっている (fukatte iru). This is a common intransitive usage where the subject is the thing being soaked. The verb stem changes slightly in this passive-like construction, but it derives from the same root.
- Potential Form: ~せる (Seru)
- To express the ability to soak something.
この容器は、大きな野菜を浸せるほど大きいです。Kono yōki wa, ōkina yasai o hitaseru hodo ōkii desu. (This container is large enough to soak big vegetables.)
浸せる (hitaseru) is the potential form, indicating capability.
- Imperative/Request: ~しなさい / ~てください (Shi nasai / Te kudasai)
- Giving instructions to soak something.
タルト生地を冷たい水に浸しなさい。Taruto kiji o tsumetai mizu ni hitashi nasai. (Soak the tart dough in cold water.)
The te-form 浸し (hishita) followed by なさい (nasai) or てください (te kudasai) is used for commands or requests.
By practicing these sentence patterns, you'll gain confidence in using 浸す in various real-life situations.
Real-World Encounters with "浸す" (Hitasu)
The verb 浸す (hitasu) is a common fixture in everyday Japanese, and you'll hear it in a variety of settings. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize and use the word more effectively.
- Culinary Conversations
- This is perhaps the most frequent domain. Whether watching a cooking show, reading a recipe, or discussing meal preparation with friends, 浸す will come up often.
「この乾燥わかめは、水に浸して戻します。」"Kono kansō wakame wa, mizu ni hitashite modoshimasu." (This dried seaweed is soaked in water to rehydrate it.)
You might also hear about soaking ingredients like rice for sushi, beans for cooking, or even meat for marinating.
- Household Chores and Cleaning
- Discussions about laundry, dishes, or general cleaning often involve 浸す.
頑固な汚れは、つけ置き洗いすると落ちやすいですよ。Ganko na yogore wa, tsukeoki arai suru to ochiyasui desu yo. (Stubborn stains are easy to remove if you soak them first.)
The phrase つけ置き洗い (tsukeoki arai) literally means 'soak and wash,' directly employing the concept of 浸す.
- Personal Care and Relaxation
- When talking about self-care routines, especially in contexts like visiting an onsen (hot spring) or a spa, or even just relaxing at home.
温泉でゆっくり体を浸すのは最高ですね。Onsen de yukkuri karada o hitasu no wa saikō desu ne. (It's wonderful to slowly soak your body in a hot spring, isn't it?)
This also applies to soaking one's hands or feet before a manicure or pedicure.
- Arts and Crafts
- In pottery, painting, or other crafts that involve water or other liquids.
筆を水に浸して、色を落としましょう。Fude o mizu ni hitashite, iro o otoshimashō. (Let's dip the brush in water to wash off the color.)
This can also extend to activities like dyeing fabric, where the material is 浸す (soaked) in dye.
You'll also encounter 浸す in educational materials, textbooks, and language learning apps, as it's a fundamental verb for describing common actions.
Avoiding Pitfalls with "浸す" (Hitasu)
While 浸す (hitasu) is a straightforward verb, learners can sometimes make mistakes, especially regarding its conjugation, intransitive counterparts, and the nuance of duration. Here are some common errors to watch out for.
- Confusing Transitive and Intransitive Forms
- The most frequent confusion arises between the transitive 浸す (hitasu - to soak something) and its intransitive counterpart 浸かる (fukaru - to be soaked, to soak oneself).
Mistake: 「私は水に浸した。」 (I soaked myself in water - grammatically awkward for this meaning)
Correct: 「私は水に浸かった。」 (I soaked myself in water. / I bathed.)
Similarly, when discussing food, you'd say the rice 浸かっている (is soaking), not 浸している (is soaking something).
- Incorrect Conjugation
- As a Group 1 verb, 浸す conjugates in specific ways. Errors might occur when treating it like a Group 2 verb (ichidan verb).
Mistake: 「パンを牛乳に浸けました。」 (Using the te-form of 浸ける 'to soak/immerse' incorrectly)
Correct: 「パンを牛乳に浸しました。」 (I soaked the bread in milk.)
The te-form is 浸して (hishite), not 浸け (tsuke).
- Ignoring the Particle に (Ni)
- Forgetting or misusing the particle に (ni) which indicates the liquid being used for soaking.
Mistake: 「野菜を水で浸した。」 (Using で 'with/by means of' instead of に 'in/into')
Correct: 「野菜を水に浸した。」 (I soaked the vegetables in water.)
に marks the destination or target of the immersion.
- Overgeneralization of Duration
- The verb 浸す itself doesn't specify the duration. Learners might assume a long soak when only a brief dip is intended, or vice versa, leading to misinterpretations.
Context is key: 「クッキーをコーヒーに浸す。」 (Dipping a cookie in coffee - usually a quick dip, not prolonged soaking.)
The context, or explicit time adverbs (e.g., しばらく - for a while, 数分 - several minutes), are crucial for understanding the duration.
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can more accurately and naturally use 浸す in your Japanese.
Exploring Nuances: Alternatives to "浸す" (Hitasu)
While 浸す (hitasu) is a fundamental verb for immersion, Japanese offers other words that convey similar or related meanings, often with subtle differences in nuance, formality, or specific application. Understanding these distinctions will refine your vocabulary.
Key Alternatives to 浸す
- 1. 濡らす (Nurasu)
- Meaning: To wet, to make damp.
- Usage Comparison: 濡らす is a more general term for making something wet. It doesn't necessarily imply immersion or soaking. You can 濡らす (wet) a cloth by sprinkling water on it, whereas 浸す implies putting it into the water.
- Example:
- * 濡らす: 「タオルを少し濡らして拭いてください。」 (Please wipe it with a towel that has been slightly wetted.)
- * 浸す: 「タオルをバケツの水に浸してください。」 (Please soak the towel in the bucket of water.)
- 2. 浸ける (Tsukeru)
- Meaning: To soak, to pickle, to steep, to marinate.
- Usage Comparison: 浸ける is very similar to 浸す and often interchangeable, especially in culinary contexts. However, 浸ける can sometimes carry a stronger implication of longer-term immersion for purposes like pickling, marinating, or steeping flavors. It's also used for attaching things, like keys to a ring, which is a completely different meaning.
- Example:
- * 浸す: 「パンをコーヒーに浸して食べます。」 (I eat bread by soaking it in coffee.)
- * 浸ける: 「肉を醤油に浸けておくと、味が染み込みます。」 (If you marinate meat in soy sauce, the flavor will soak in.)
- 3. 浸る (Hitaru)
- Meaning: To be soaked, to be immersed (intransitive).
- Usage Comparison: This is the intransitive counterpart to 浸す. While 浸す describes the action of the actor, 浸る describes the state of being soaked or immersed. It's often used with inanimate objects or when the actor is not the focus.
- Example:
- * 浸す: 「私は服を洗剤に浸した。」 (I soaked the clothes in detergent.)
- * 浸る: 「服が洗剤水に浸かっています。」 (The clothes are soaking in the detergent water.)
- 4. 浸す (Hitasu) vs. 浸かる (Fukaru) - A Crucial Distinction
- This pair is the most important to distinguish. 浸す (hitasu) is transitive (requires an object), meaning someone or something actively does the soaking. 浸かる (fukaru) is intransitive, meaning the subject itself is soaking or immersed. Note the vowel change in the stem for the intransitive form.
Choosing the right word depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey. While 浸す and 浸ける can often be used interchangeably for soaking, always be mindful of the intransitive 浸かる and the more general 濡らす.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 浸 (shin) is also used in words like 浸水 (shinsui), meaning flooding, and 浸透 (shintō), meaning permeation or osmosis. This highlights the core concept of liquid moving into or through something.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the final 'u' too strongly, making it sound like 'sue'. It should be a short, light 'u'.
- Not clearly articulating the 'ta' sound.
- Confusing it with similar-sounding words.
Difficulty Rating
The verb 浸す itself is relatively straightforward. However, understanding its nuances, especially differentiating it from 浸かる and 浸ける, and interpreting the duration of soaking from context, can increase reading difficulty. Advanced texts might use it in more figurative or technical ways.
Conjugating the verb correctly and choosing the appropriate synonym (浸す, 浸ける, 濡らす) requires practice. Correctly using transitive vs. intransitive forms is key for natural writing.
Producing the correct conjugations and choosing the right word in spontaneous speech can be challenging. Distinguishing between 浸す and 浸かる in real-time is important for clear communication.
Recognizing the verb in spoken Japanese is generally easy. However, understanding the implied duration and purpose of soaking, especially in fast-paced conversations or when context is minimal, can be difficult.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Te-form for sequential actions
パンを牛乳に浸して、焼く。(Pan o gyūnyū ni hitashite, yaku.) - Soak bread in milk and then bake it.
Potential form (える/る)
この鍋は、大きな野菜を浸せる。(Kono nabe wa, ōkina yasai o hitaseru.) - This pot can soak large vegetables.
Intransitive counterparts (浸かる, 浸ける)
お米が水に浸かっている。(Okome ga mizu ni fukatte iru.) - The rice is soaking in water.
Particles に for destination/target
野菜を水に浸す。(Yasai o mizu ni hitasu.) - Soak vegetables IN water.
Causative form (せる/させる) - not directly applicable to 浸す in common use, but related to the concept of making something soak.
This structure is less common for 浸す itself but could be used in complex sentences.
Examples by Level
パンを水に浸す。
Soak bread in water.
Basic verb usage with object and particle に.
手を洗うために水に浸す。
Soak hands in water to wash.
Purpose clause with ために.
布を少し濡らす。
Wet the cloth a little.
Using 濡らす for general wetting.
お米が水に浸かっている。
The rice is soaking in water.
Intransitive form 浸かる (fukaru).
野菜を水に浸しました。
I soaked the vegetables in water.
Past tense polite form.
お茶の葉を湯に浸す。
Steep tea leaves in hot water.
Using 浸す for steeping.
靴を洗うために浸す。
Soak shoes to wash.
Purpose of soaking.
石鹸水に手を浸す。
Dip hands in soapy water.
Action of dipping.
乾燥わかめを水に浸して戻す。
Soak dried seaweed in water to rehydrate it.
Te-form for sequential action.
足湯にゆっくりと体を浸す。
Slowly soak your body in the foot bath.
Describing a relaxing activity.
この洗濯物は、つけ置き洗いが必要です。
This laundry needs to be soaked and washed.
Using the concept of 'soak and wash'.
パンを卵液に浸してフレンチトーストを作る。
Dip bread in egg mixture to make French toast.
Culinary preparation.
食器を洗剤水に浸けておくと汚れが落ちやすい。
If you soak dishes in soapy water, dirt comes off easily.
Using 浸ける (tsukeru) for soaking dishes.
筆を水に浸して色を落とす。
Dip the brush in water to remove the color.
Cleaning tools.
タルト生地を冷たい水に浸しなさい。
Soak the tart dough in cold water.
Imperative form.
この容器は大きな野菜も浸せる。
This container can soak even large vegetables.
Potential form 浸せる (hitaseru).
漬物を作るために、野菜を塩水に長時間浸す。
To make pickles, soak vegetables in saltwater for a long time.
Specifying duration and purpose for preservation.
風邪をひいたので、温かいお湯に体を浸して休みたい。
I caught a cold, so I want to soak my body in warm water and rest.
Expressing a desire for comfort and recovery.
この革製品は、水に浸すと色が変わる可能性があります。
This leather product may change color if soaked in water.
Warning about potential consequences.
茶碗を洗う前に、汚れを落としやすくするためにぬるま湯に浸けておく。
Before washing the tea bowl, soak it in lukewarm water to make it easier to remove dirt.
Pre-treatment for easier cleaning.
木材を腐食から守るために、防腐剤に浸す。
Soak the wood in preservative to protect it from rot.
Industrial or protective treatment.
生地を染料に浸すことで、鮮やかな色合いを出す。
By soaking the fabric in dye, a vivid color is achieved.
Artistic or craft application.
この機械は、部品を洗浄液に浸して自動で掃除します。
This machine automatically cleans parts by soaking them in cleaning fluid.
Automated industrial process.
子供がおもちゃをバケツの水に浸して遊んでいる。
The child is playing by soaking toys in the bucket of water.
Children's play activity.
古文書を保存するためには、特殊な溶液に慎重に浸す必要がある。
To preserve ancient documents, they must be carefully soaked in a special solution.
Technical procedure for preservation.
この調理法では、肉を数日間スパイスの効いた液体に浸すことで、風味を最大限に引き出す。
In this cooking method, the flavor is maximized by soaking the meat in a spiced liquid for several days.
Advanced culinary technique involving extended marination.
長時間の水圧に耐えるため、素材は特殊な液体に浸されて強度を高める。
To withstand prolonged water pressure, the material is soaked in a special liquid to increase its strength.
Material science application.
芸術家は、キャンバスを水で湿らせ、その上に絵の具を垂らして独特の効果を狙った。
The artist dampened the canvas with water and dripped paint onto it, aiming for a unique effect.
Artistic technique involving pre-wetting.
この研究では、植物の種子を特定の栄養液に浸すことで発芽率を向上させる方法を調査している。
This research investigates a method to improve seed germination rates by soaking plant seeds in a specific nutrient solution.
Scientific research context.
伝統的な染色技法では、布を天然染料に長時間浸すことが不可欠である。
In traditional dyeing techniques, it is essential to soak the fabric in natural dyes for an extended period.
Traditional craft process.
医療分野では、器具を滅菌液に浸して徹底的に消毒する。
In the medical field, instruments are thoroughly sterilized by soaking them in a sterilizing solution.
Medical sterilization procedure.
陶芸家は、作品に釉薬を均一に施すために、素焼きの器を釉薬に浸す。
The ceramic artist dips the bisque-fired vessel into glaze to apply it evenly.
Ceramics application.
その地域特有の食文化では、発酵食品を製造する過程で、原料を特殊な brine に長期間浸すことが一般的だ。
In the region's unique food culture, it is common to soak raw ingredients in a special brine for extended periods during the production of fermented foods.
Specific cultural culinary practice with detailed description.
現代アートのインスタレーションでは、鑑賞者に感情的な共鳴を促すために、日常的なオブジェクトを意図的に液体に浸した状態で見せる手法が用いられる。
In contemporary art installations, techniques are used where everyday objects are intentionally shown immersed in liquid to evoke emotional resonance in the viewer.
Artistic expression and viewer engagement.
古典的な絵画技法において、下地となるキャンバスを水で湿らせることで、絵の具の定着を助け、ぼかし効果を容易にする。
In classical painting techniques, dampening the underlying canvas with water aids in the adhesion of paint and facilitates blending effects.
Detailed explanation of a classical artistic technique.
バイオテクノロジー分野では、細胞培養の初期段階で、組織サンプルを栄養豊富な培地に浸すことが、その生存率と増殖を保証する上で極めて重要である。
In the field of biotechnology, immersing tissue samples in a nutrient-rich medium during the initial stages of cell culture is crucial for ensuring their survival and proliferation.
Technical scientific process with emphasis on importance.
建築材料の耐久性を向上させるための研究では、新たな複合材料を、特定の化学物質を含む溶液に浸すことで、その耐水性および耐候性を評価している。
In research aimed at improving the durability of construction materials, new composite materials are evaluated for their water and weather resistance by soaking them in solutions containing specific chemicals.
Material science research methodology.
伝統工芸である藍染めでは、綿布を藍甕(あいがめ)に浸し、空気酸化を繰り返すことで、独特の深い青色を生み出す。
In the traditional craft of indigo dyeing, cotton cloth is immersed in an indigo vat, and by repeating exposure to air oxidation, a unique deep blue color is produced.
Detailed description of a traditional craft process.
食品加工の分野では、果物をシロップに浸すことで、保存性を高めると同時に、甘みと風味を付与する。
In the field of food processing, fruits are soaked in syrup to enhance their preservation while simultaneously imparting sweetness and flavor.
Food preservation and enhancement technique.
医学的処置において、患者の患部を生理食塩水に浸すことで、感染リスクを低減し、治癒を促進する。
In medical procedures, soaking a patient's affected area in saline solution reduces the risk of infection and promotes healing.
Medical treatment explanation.
古代の冶金技術では、金属部品を特定の鉱物溶液に長時間浸すことで、表面に耐食性のある皮膜を形成させる手法が用いられていた。
In ancient metallurgical techniques, a method was employed where metal parts were immersed in specific mineral solutions for extended periods to form a corrosion-resistant film on the surface.
Historical technological process with detailed description of outcome.
環境修復の試みとして、汚染された土壌を特殊な微生物を含む培養液に浸すことで、有害物質の分解を促進する。
As an environmental remediation effort, contaminated soil is immersed in a culture medium containing specific microorganisms to promote the decomposition of harmful substances.
Advanced environmental science application.
現代のファインダイニングでは、食材の持つ潜在的な旨味を最大限に引き出すために、真空調理法と組み合わせて、長期間にわたる低温浸漬(マセラシオン)が採用されることがある。
In modern fine dining, long-term low-temperature immersion (maceration), often combined with sous vide, may be employed to maximize the inherent umami of ingredients.
Sophisticated culinary technique with specific terminology.
ナノテクノロジーの分野では、基板材料を精密に制御された化学溶液に浸すことで、ナノ構造体を自己組織化させる研究が進められている。
In the field of nanotechnology, research is progressing on self-assembling nanostructures by immersing substrate materials in precisely controlled chemical solutions.
Cutting-edge scientific research process.
歴史的な織物保存の観点から、デリケートな繊維製品を、pH調整された蒸留水に一定時間浸すことで、経年劣化によるダメージを最小限に抑える。
From the perspective of historical textile preservation, delicate fiber products are immersed in pH-adjusted distilled water for a specific duration to minimize damage from aging.
Specialized conservation technique with precise parameters.
バイオリアクター内での幹細胞培養において、細胞外マトリックスを模倣したゲル状物質に細胞を浸すことで、その分化誘導を効果的に制御する。
In stem cell culture within a bioreactor, cells are immersed in a gel-like substance mimicking the extracellular matrix to effectively control their differentiation induction.
Advanced biological research application.
特殊効果化粧品の開発において、顔料粒子を特定のポリマー溶液に浸すことで、肌への密着性と持続性を飛躍的に向上させる。
In the development of special effect cosmetics, pigment particles are immersed in a specific polymer solution to dramatically improve adhesion to the skin and longevity.
Cosmetic chemistry and product development.
考古学的な発掘調査では、発見された遺物を、その安定性を確保するために、一時的に保護液に浸す措置が取られることがある。
In archaeological excavations, measures may be taken to temporarily immerse discovered artifacts in a protective solution to ensure their stability.
Archaeological preservation protocols.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To soak in water.
パンを水に浸して柔らかくしました。(Pan o mizu ni hitashite yawarakaku shimashita.) - I soaked the bread in water to make it soft.
— To soak in hot water.
疲れたので、足をお湯に浸してリラックスしました。(Tsukareta node, ashi o oyu ni hitashite rirakkusu shimashita.) - I was tired, so I soaked my feet in hot water and relaxed.
— Soak-and-wash method, usually for stubborn stains.
このシャツのシミは、つけ置き洗いしないと落ちない。(Kono shatsu no shimi wa, tsukeoki arai shinai to ochinai.) - The stain on this shirt won't come off unless you use the soak-and-wash method.
— To dip in oil (often for frying or coating).
唐揚げを作るために、鶏肉をタレに浸します。(Karaage o tsukuru tame ni, toriniku o tare ni hitashimasu.) - To make fried chicken, dip the chicken in the marinade.
— To soak in a liquid (general term).
この素材は、特殊な液体に浸すことで強度が増します。(Kono sozai wa, tokushu na ekitai ni hitasu koto de kyōdo ga masimasu.) - This material increases in strength by soaking it in a special liquid.
— To dip into ink.
万年筆のペン先をインク壺に浸して、書く準備をする。(Mannenhitsu no pennsaki o inkutsubo ni hitashite, kaku junbi o suru.) - Dip the nib of a fountain pen into the ink pot to prepare for writing.
— To marinate or soak for a long time (often for flavor or preservation). Similar to 浸ける.
肉をスパイスに漬け込んで、一晩冷蔵庫で寝かせます。(Niku o supaisu ni tsukekonde, hitoban reizōko de nekasemasu.) - Marinate the meat in spices and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight.
— To soak and rehydrate (often for dried foods).
乾燥したきのこを水に浸して戻してから、料理に使う。(Kansō shita kinoko o mizu ni hitashite modoshite kara, ryōri ni tsukau.) - Soak dried mushrooms in water to rehydrate them before using them in cooking.
— Just soak (implies simplicity).
このインスタントラーメンは、お湯に浸すだけだから簡単だ。(Kono insutanto rāmen wa, oyu ni hitasu dake dakara kantan da.) - This instant ramen is easy because you just soak it in hot water.
— Do not over-soak.
デリケートな生地なので、長時間浸しすぎないように注意してください。(Derikēto na kiji nanode, chōjikan hitasu suginai yō ni chūi shite kudasai.) - Please be careful not to over-soak this delicate fabric for too long.
Often Confused With
This is the intransitive counterpart, meaning 'to be soaked'. 浸す is transitive ('to soak something'), while 浸かる is intransitive ('something is soaking' or 'to soak oneself').
Very similar to 浸す, often interchangeable in culinary contexts. However, 浸ける can also mean 'to pickle' or 'to attach', and is sometimes preferred for longer marination or preservation.
Means 'to wet' or 'to make damp', but doesn't imply full immersion or soaking. You can wet a cloth without fully submerging it.
Idioms & Expressions
— Figuratively, to be completely immersed or engrossed in something, often to the point of losing touch with reality or becoming deeply affected.
彼はその物語の世界に水に浸したように没頭した。(Kare wa sono monogatari no sekai ni mizu ni hitashita yō ni bottō shita.) - He was completely immersed in the world of the story.
Literary/Figurative— Literally 'to soak in hot water', this idiom refers to taking a bath, especially a relaxing one, to soothe oneself.
一日の疲れを癒すために、湯に浸かるのが好きだ。(Ichinichi no tsukare o iyasu tame ni, yu ni fukaru no ga suki da.) - I like to take a bath to soothe the day's fatigue.
Everyday/Relaxation— While not directly using 浸す, this idiom describes being covered in mud or dirt, implying being deeply involved or bogged down in something unpleasant or difficult.
彼は長年、この問題の泥にまみれて闘ってきた。(Kare wa naganen, kono mondai no doro ni mamirete tattekita.) - He has been struggling, mired in the mud of this problem, for many years.
Figurative/Struggle— Similar to 'water', this can be used metaphorically to describe being deeply involved or saturated with something, such as knowledge, emotion, or a particular atmosphere.
彼女は芸術の雰囲気の中に液体に浸したように存在していた。(Kanojo wa geijutsu no fun'iki no naka ni ekitai ni hitashita yō ni sonzai shite ita.) - She existed as if immersed in the atmosphere of art.
Literary/Figurative— Literally 'just soak', this can be used idiomatically to imply that something is very simple or requires minimal effort, often in a dismissive or understated way.
この料理は、材料を浸すだけだから誰でも作れるよ。(Kono ryōri wa, zairyō o hitasu dake dakara dare demo tsukureru yo.) - This dish is so simple anyone can make it; you just have to soak the ingredients.
Informal/Understated— This phrase is very close to 水に浸す and can often be used interchangeably, especially when referring to food preparation or preservation.
野菜を塩水に漬けることで、保存性を高める。(Yasai o shio mizu ni tsukeru koto de, hozonsei o takameru.) - Soaking vegetables in saltwater enhances their preservation.
Culinary/Preservation— When you soak it, it becomes... This is a common pattern to describe the result of soaking.
この生地は水に浸すと、もちもちになります。(Kono kiji wa mizu ni hitasu to, mochimochi ni narimasu.) - When you soak this dough in water, it becomes chewy.
Culinary/Descriptive— To forget to soak something.
乾燥した豆を浸すのを忘れてしまった!(Kansō shita mame o hitasu no o wasurete shimatta!) - I forgot to soak the dried beans!
Everyday/Mistake— The time required for soaking.
このレシピでは、パンを卵液に10分間浸す時間が必要です。(Kono reshipi de wa, pan o tamagoeki ni juppunkan hitasu jikan ga hitsuyō desu.) - This recipe requires 10 minutes of soaking time for the bread in the egg mixture.
Culinary/Instructional— To like soaking something or being soaked.
私は、お風呂にゆっくり浸すのが好きです。(Watashi wa, ofuro ni yukkuri hitasu no ga suki desu.) - I like to soak leisurely in the bath.
Personal PreferenceEasily Confused
It's a transitive verb meaning 'to soak something'.
Use this when you are the one performing the action of making something wet by immersing it in liquid. For example, 'I soak the clothes'.
私は洗濯物を洗剤水に浸した。(Watashi wa sentakumono o senzai sui ni hitashita.)
It's the intransitive counterpart, meaning 'to be soaked' or 'to soak oneself'.
Use this when the subject itself is in the liquid or undergoing the state of being soaked. For example, 'The clothes are soaking' or 'I am soaking in the bath'.
洗濯物が洗剤水に浸かっている。(Sentakumono ga senzai sui ni fukatte iru.)
Very similar to 浸す, often used interchangeably.
While 浸す is a general term for soaking, 浸ける is often used for specific purposes like marinating meat (肉を醤油に浸ける), pickling vegetables (野菜を漬ける - though 漬ける is more specific for pickling), or steeping tea. It can also mean 'to attach' or 'to apply'.
肉をヨーグルトに浸けて、柔らかくする。(Niku o yōguruto ni tsukete, yawarakaku suru.)
It means 'to wet', which is related to soaking.
This verb means to make something wet, but not necessarily by immersion. You can dampen a cloth by sprinkling water on it, which is 濡らす, but to fully submerge it would be 浸す.
タオルを少し濡らして、テーブルを拭いた。(Taoru o sukoshi nurashite, tēburu o fuita.)
Both involve moisture and heat in cooking.
蒸す means 'to steam', which involves cooking with hot vapor. 浸す involves immersing something directly in a liquid.
この料理は蒸すのではなく、スープに浸して食べる。(Kono ryōri wa musu no de wa naku, sūpu ni hitashite taberu.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + Noun + に + 浸す。
パンを水に浸す。
Noun + を + Noun + に + 浸して + Verb。
野菜を水に浸して、洗う。
Noun + が + Noun + に + 浸かっている。
お米が水に浸かっている。
Noun + を + Noun + に + 浸ける。
肉を醤油に浸ける。
Noun + を + Noun + に + 浸す + ために
乾燥わかめを戻すために水に浸す。
Noun + を + Noun + に + 浸す + ように + Verb
クッキーをコーヒーに浸すように食べる。
Noun + を + Noun + に + 浸す + ほど
この鍋は、魚を丸ごと浸すほど大きい。
Noun + を + Noun + に + 長時間 + 浸す
豆を長時間水に浸す必要がある。
Word Family
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High
-
Using 浸す (hitasu) when 浸かる (fukaru) is needed.
→
Using 浸かる (fukaru) when something is being soaked or someone is soaking themselves.
浸す is transitive (soak something), while 浸かる is intransitive (to be soaked). Example: 'I soak the clothes' is 衣類を浸す (Irui o hitasu), but 'The clothes are soaking' is 衣類が浸かっている (Irui ga fukatte iru).
-
Forgetting the particle に (ni) after the liquid.
→
Including に after the liquid. For example, 水に浸す (mizu ni hitasu).
The particle に indicates the medium or destination of the soaking action. Omitting it makes the sentence grammatically incorrect or unclear.
-
Using the wrong conjugation.
→
Using the correct Group 1 (u-verb) conjugations like 浸して (hishite), 浸した (hishita), 浸す (hitasu).
As a Group 1 verb, 浸す follows specific conjugation rules. Incorrectly applying Group 2 rules or other verb types is a common error.
-
Confusing 浸す (hitasu) with 濡らす (nurasu).
→
Using 浸す for immersion and 濡らす for simply making something wet.
濡らす means 'to wet' or 'to dampen', which doesn't necessarily involve submersion. 浸す specifically means to soak or immerse.
-
Assuming duration is implied by the verb alone.
→
Understanding that context determines the duration of soaking.
The verb 浸す does not inherently specify if it's a quick dip or a long soak. Adverbs of time or context are crucial for understanding the intended duration.
Tips
Transitive vs. Intransitive
The most crucial point is distinguishing between 浸す (hitasu - transitive, to soak something) and 浸かる (fukaru - intransitive, to be soaked). If you are actively putting something into liquid, use 浸す. If something is already in the liquid or you are soaking yourself, use 浸かる.
Culinary Contexts
In cooking, 浸す is used for rehydrating dried ingredients, softening bread, or preparing batters. Pay attention to the specific liquid and duration mentioned in recipes.
Particle に
The particle に (ni) is almost always used to indicate the liquid into which something is being soaked. For example, 水に浸す (mizu ni hitasu - soak in water).
Related Verbs
Be aware of similar verbs like 浸ける (tsukeru - often interchangeable for soaking, but can mean pickle/attach) and 濡らす (nurasu - to wet, not necessarily soak).
Pronunciation Focus
Practice saying 'hitasu' clearly, with the stress on the second syllable: hi-TA-su. Ensure the final 'u' is light and short.
Active Recall
Try to describe everyday actions involving soaking using 浸す in Japanese. For example, 'I soak my feet' or 'Soak the rice'.
Duration is Key
The verb itself doesn't specify time. Context is vital. A quick dip is different from overnight soaking. Look for adverbs like 'しばらく' (for a while) or specific times.
Writing Practice
Write sentences describing different soaking scenarios: cooking, cleaning, art. Focus on using the correct transitive or intransitive forms and the particle に.
Listen for Context
When listening to Japanese, try to identify the object being soaked, the liquid, and any clues about the duration or purpose. This will help you understand the intended meaning of 浸す.
Cultural Significance
Understand that soaking is a common practice in Japanese culture, from bathing rituals to food preparation, giving the verb practical and cultural relevance.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person named 'Hita' who loves to soak in the bath. He says, 'Hita-su, I love soaking!' The 'su' at the end sounds like 'soak'.
Visual Association
Picture a sponge being dipped into a bucket of water. The sponge absorbs the water, becoming saturated. This visual of 'dipping and absorbing' is key to 浸す.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe five different actions you do at home that involve soaking or dipping, using the verb 浸す in your descriptions.
Word Origin
The kanji 浸 itself means 'to soak' or 'to immerse'. It is composed of the radical 'water' (氵) on the left and the phonetic component 'jìn' (浸) on the right, which originally depicted water seeping into the ground.
Original meaning: The character originally conveyed the idea of water seeping or flowing into something.
Sino-Japanese (Kanji origin)Cultural Context
The verb itself is neutral. However, the context of its usage can carry cultural weight, such as the importance of bathing for cleanliness and relaxation, or the meticulous preparation of food.
While the concept of soaking exists in English, the Japanese verb 浸す covers a broader range of applications from quick dips to prolonged immersion, often with specific culinary or domestic implications.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Cooking and food preparation
- 米を水に浸す (kome o mizu ni hitasu)
- 野菜を塩水に浸す (yasai o shio mizu ni hitasu)
- 乾燥わかめを戻すために浸す (kansō wakame o modosu tame ni hitasu)
Household chores and cleaning
- 洗濯物を洗剤水に浸す (sentakumono o senzai sui ni hitasu)
- 食器をつけ置き洗いする (shokki o tsukeoki arai suru)
- 汚れを落とすために浸す (yogore o otosu tame ni hitasu)
Personal care and relaxation
- 足をお湯に浸す (ashi o oyu ni hitasu)
- 温泉に体を浸す (onsen ni karada o hitasu)
- リラックスするために浸す (rirakkusu suru tame ni hitasu)
Arts and crafts
- 筆を水に浸す (fude o mizu ni hitasu)
- 紙を水に浸して使う (kami o mizu ni hitashite tsukau)
- 色を浸す (iro o hitasu - to dip into color)
Technical and scientific applications
- 試料を溶液に浸す (shiryō o yōeki ni hitasu)
- 素材を処理液に浸す (sozai o shori eki ni hitasu)
- 滅菌液に浸す (mekkin'eki ni hitasu)
Conversation Starters
"What are some things you like to soak in hot water to relax?"
"When you cook, what ingredients do you usually soak before using them?"
"Have you ever had to soak something for a long time to clean it? What was it?"
"Do you prefer to dip your cookies in milk or coffee, or do you just eat them as is?"
"What's your favorite way to prepare dried foods like mushrooms or seaweed?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you soaked something for a specific purpose. What was it and why did you soak it?
Write about a favorite recipe that requires soaking ingredients. Detail the steps.
Imagine you are a piece of laundry with a stubborn stain. Describe your experience of being soaked.
Reflect on the feeling of soaking in warm water. What emotions or thoughts does it bring up for you?
Compare and contrast the actions of 'soaking' (浸す) and 'wiping' (拭く). When would you use each?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe main difference is transitivity. 浸す (hitasu) is a transitive verb, meaning it takes an object and describes the action of 'soaking something'. For example, 'I soak the bread' (パンを浸す - pan o hitasu). 浸かる (fukaru) is the intransitive counterpart, meaning 'to be soaked' or 'to soak oneself'. For example, 'The bread is soaking' (パンが浸かっている - pan ga fukatte iru) or 'I soak in the bath' (お風呂に浸かる - ofuro ni fukaru). Think of it this way: - You 浸す (hitasu) something. - Something 浸かる (fukaru).
They are often interchangeable, especially in culinary contexts like marinating or soaking ingredients. However, 浸ける can sometimes imply a longer duration or a more specific purpose such as pickling (though 漬ける is more common for pickling). 浸ける also has other meanings like 'to attach' or 'to apply'. For general soaking, both are usually fine, but 浸す is perhaps the more direct translation for 'to soak'.
No, the verb 浸す itself doesn't specify the duration. It can mean a quick dip or a prolonged immersion. The context of the sentence or situation will usually indicate how long the soaking is intended to last. For example, dipping a cookie in coffee is a quick 浸す, while soaking dried beans overnight is a long 浸す.
While you can technically use 浸す, it's more common and natural to use the intransitive verb 浸かる (fukaru) or the phrase お風呂に入る (ofuro ni hairu - to enter the bath) or お風呂に浸かる (ofuro ni fukaru - to soak in the bath) when talking about personal bathing. For instance, 'I'm soaking in the bath' would be お風呂に浸かっています (Ofuro ni fukatte imasu).
Common items include: dried foods (like mushrooms, seaweed, beans, rice), bread (in milk or eggs for French toast), vegetables (for cleaning or preparation), laundry (before washing), dishes (to loosen dirt), fabric (for dyeing), brushes (in water or paint), and even one's body parts (like feet in warm water).
Both are generally neutral. 浸す might be slightly more formal or preferred in written instructions or technical contexts, while 浸ける is very common in everyday conversation, especially regarding food preparation. However, the difference is subtle and often interchangeable.
You would say 筆を絵の具に浸す (fude o enogu ni hitasu). The particle に indicates the medium being dipped into.
The direct opposite of making something wet is making it dry. The verb for 'to dry' is 乾かす (kawakasu). After soaking (浸す), you often dry (乾かす) the item.
Yes. For example, in art, you might 浸す (dip) a brush in paint or water. In science, samples might be 浸す (soaked) in solutions. In a more figurative sense, one might be deeply immersed in a task, though other expressions are more common for that.
Remember that 'hitasu' has the 'su' sound at the end, which sounds like 'soak'. You 'hitasu' (soak) something. If something 'fukaru' (is soaked), it's in the state of being wet. Think of 'fukaru' as 'full of water'.
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Summary
The verb 浸す (hitasu) signifies the act of immersing something in a liquid, commonly seen in cooking (soaking ingredients), cleaning (pre-soaking laundry), and personal care (soaking feet). It's crucial to differentiate it from its intransitive counterpart 浸かる (fukaru), which means 'to be soaked'. For example, 'I soak vegetables' is 野菜を浸す (yasai o hitasu), while 'the vegetables are soaking' is 野菜が浸かっている (yasai ga fukatte iru).
- 浸す (hitasu) means to soak or dip something in liquid.
- Used in cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
- Distinguish from 浸かる (fukaru - to be soaked).
Transitive vs. Intransitive
The most crucial point is distinguishing between 浸す (hitasu - transitive, to soak something) and 浸かる (fukaru - intransitive, to be soaked). If you are actively putting something into liquid, use 浸す. If something is already in the liquid or you are soaking yourself, use 浸かる.
Culinary Contexts
In cooking, 浸す is used for rehydrating dried ingredients, softening bread, or preparing batters. Pay attention to the specific liquid and duration mentioned in recipes.
Particle に
The particle に (ni) is almost always used to indicate the liquid into which something is being soaked. For example, 水に浸す (mizu ni hitasu - soak in water).
Related Verbs
Be aware of similar verbs like 浸ける (tsukeru - often interchangeable for soaking, but can mean pickle/attach) and 濡らす (nurasu - to wet, not necessarily soak).
Example
パンを牛乳に浸して食べる。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More food words
少々
B1A little; a few.
〜ほど
B1About; approximately; degree.
~ほど
B1About, approximately; to the extent of ~.
豊富な
B1Abundant, rich in.
ふんだんに
B1Lavishly; abundantly; generously (e.g., using ingredients).
足す
B1To add (e.g., to a sum, to ingredients).
添加物
B1Additive.
〜てから
B1After doing ~.
~てから
B1After doing (an action).
熟成させる
B1To age; to mature (food).