Explanation at your level:
Hi there! Today we learn つけます (tsukemasu). It means 'to turn on.' Imagine you want to see in your room, so you say, 'I turn on the light.' In Japanese, you say 電気をつけます (denki o tsukemasu). Or, if you want to watch TV, you say, テレビをつけます (terebi o tsukemasu). It's like magic! You press a button, and the light or TV starts working. It's a very useful word for everyday things. You can use it for lights, TVs, radios, and other machines. When you want something to start working, you use tsukemasu!
Hello! Let's talk about つけます (tsukemasu). This verb means 'to turn on' or 'to switch on.' It's used for many things you use every day. For example, 電気をつけます (denki o tsukemasu) means 'to turn on the light.' If you want to watch something, you can say テレビをつけます (terebi o tsukemasu), which means 'to turn on the TV.' It's the opposite of turning something off (消します - keshimasu). You use tsukemasu when you want to start a device or make a light work. It's a very common verb for daily actions.
Let's explore the verb つけます (tsukemasu), meaning 'to turn on' or 'to switch on.' This is a fundamental verb for activating appliances and lights. Common collocations include 電気をつけます (denki o tsukemasu) for turning on the light and エアコンをつけます (eakon o tsukemasu) for turning on the air conditioner. It's the action you take when something is off and you want it to start functioning.
Remember that tsukemasu is the polite form. The dictionary form is tsukeru. While it's widely used for electronics, it's good to know that for some things, like starting a car engine, other verbs might be more appropriate. However, for most everyday devices, tsukemasu is the perfect choice.
The verb つけます (tsukemasu), the polite form of tsukeru, signifies the act of 'turning on' or 'activating' a device or light. Its usage is prevalent in contexts involving electronics and illumination. For instance, 部屋の明かりをつけます (heya no akari o tsukemasu) translates to 'turn on the room light.' It implies a deliberate initiation of function, contrasting with keshimasu (to turn off).
While tsukemasu is broadly applicable, nuances exist. For example, starting a car often uses kakeru (かける). Understanding these subtle distinctions enhances fluency. The verb can also appear in more figurative senses, though less commonly than its literal meaning, such as in expressions related to 'lighting a fire' (火をつける - hi o tsukeru), which can imply inciting action.
In Japanese, つけます (tsukemasu), the masu-form of tsukeru, denotes the activation of devices and illumination. Its primary semantic field encompasses switching on lights, appliances, and electronic systems. For example, パソコンをつけます (pasokon o tsukemasu) means 'to turn on the computer.' This verb operates within a framework of initiating functionality, often contrasted with its antonym, keshimasu (消します - to turn off).
Beyond its literal application, tsukeru exhibits polysemy. It can mean 'to attach' or 'to apply,' leading to idiomatic uses like 火をつける (hi o tsukeru), which can mean 'to set fire to' or metaphorically 'to incite' or 'spark' an event or emotion. This figurative extension highlights the verb's semantic depth, moving from a concrete action to abstract concepts of initiation and causation. Careful attention to context is crucial for accurate interpretation.
The Japanese verb つけます (tsukemasu), derived from the verb stem tsuke- and the polite marker -masu, primarily signifies the act of 'turning on' or 'activating' a device, light, or system. This usage is deeply embedded in modern Japanese, reflecting technological advancements. Its core meaning relates to initiating a state of operation, as seen in 照明をつけます (shoumei o tsukemasu) – 'to switch on the lighting.' The verb's etymology traces back to older meanings of 'attaching' or 'fixing,' suggesting a conceptual link between affixing power/energy and initiating function.
Furthermore, the verb tsukeru (つける) exhibits significant polysemy and idiomatic extension. Its application extends to non-electronic contexts, such as adding flavor (味をつける - aji o tsukeru) or imparting a scent (匂いをつける - nioi o tsukeru). The expression 火をつける (hi o tsukeru) is particularly noteworthy, carrying dual meanings of literal ignition and metaphorical incitement or instigation. Mastery of tsukemasu involves not only its common usage with electronics but also an appreciation of its broader semantic range and idiomatic expressions, reflecting a nuanced understanding of the Japanese lexicon and its historical evolution.
Word in 30 Seconds
- つけます (tsukemasu) means 'to turn on' or 'to switch on'.
- Used for lights, electronics, and devices.
- Commonly paired with nouns like 電気 (light) and テレビ (TV).
- Has related forms like つける (plain) and つく (intransitive).
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese verb つけます (つける). You'll hear this one all the time! It basically means 'to turn on' or 'to switch on'. Think about flipping a light switch, turning on the TV, or even starting up your computer. That's tsukemasu in action!
It's all about initiating something, bringing it to life, or making it functional. So, whether you're lighting up a room or getting your game console ready, tsukemasu is your go-to verb. It's one of those fundamental words that opens up so many everyday conversations in Japanese, making it a must-know for any learner!
The verb tsukeru (つける) has a rich history, stemming from ancient Japanese roots. Its original meaning was broader, often relating to 'attaching,' 'fixing,' or 'applying' something. Over time, this sense evolved to include the idea of 'setting' something in motion or 'applying' power, which led to its modern meaning of 'to turn on'.
Think of it like attaching electricity or a signal to a device. This evolution is fascinating because it shows how language adapts to new technologies and concepts. While the core idea of 'attaching' remains in other uses of tsukeru (like attaching a sticker), its application to electronics highlights its dynamic nature. It's a great example of how an old word can take on new life!
Tsukemasu (つけます) is incredibly versatile for turning things on. You'll most commonly hear it with things that have a switch or button. For instance, 電気をつけます (denki o tsukemasu) means 'to turn on the light/electricity,' and テレビをつけます (terebi o tsukemasu) means 'to turn on the TV.'
It's generally used for electronic devices and lights. When you're talking about starting a car, you might use a different verb (かける - kakeru). The register is pretty neutral, so you can use it in most everyday situations, whether you're talking to friends or in a slightly more formal setting. Just remember, it's about activating something that was previously off.
While tsukemasu itself is quite direct, the concept of 'turning on' appears in some interesting phrases:
- 火をつける (hi o tsukeru): Literally 'to light a fire,' but can also mean 'to incite' or 'to spark something,' like starting a rumor or a movement. Example: 彼は議論に火をつけた (Kare wa giron ni hi o tsuketa) - He sparked the debate.
- 灯油をつける (touyu o tsukeru): This is a more specific way to say 'to light a lamp' using kerosene. Example: 冬はランプに灯油をつけます (Fuyu wa ranpu ni touyu o tsukemasu) - In winter, I light the lamp with kerosene.
- 匂いをつける (nioi o tsukeru): To impart a scent or smell onto something. Example: この香水は服にいい匂いをつけてくれる (Kono kousui wa fuku ni ii nioi o tsukete kureru) - This perfume gives my clothes a nice scent.
- 味をつける (aji o tsukeru): To add flavor to food. Example: 料理に塩で味をつけます (Ryouri ni shio de aji o tsukemasu) - I add salt to flavor the dish.
These show how the core idea of 'applying' or 'starting' extends beyond just electronics!
Tsukemasu (つけます) is the polite, present affirmative form of the verb tsukeru (つける). The dictionary form is tsukeru. It's a Group 2 (ichidan) verb, which makes its conjugation pretty straightforward. For example, the negative form is tsukemasen (つけません - don't turn on), the past tense is tsukemashita (つけました - turned on), and the past negative is tsukemasen deshita (つけませんでした - didn't turn on).
Pronunciation-wise, the 'tsu' sound is like the 'ts' in 'cats,' followed by 'ke' (like 'keh') and 'ma' (like 'mah') and 'su' (like 'soo'). The stress is fairly even across the syllables. Rhyming words are tricky in Japanese due to syllable structure, but words ending in '-keru' or '-kemu' might share some phonetic qualities. For instance, akeru (開ける - to open) and sakeru (避ける - to avoid) share the '-keru' ending.
Fun Fact
The verb 'tsukeru' originally meant 'to attach' or 'to fix.' The meaning 'to turn on' evolved from the idea of 'attaching' electricity or power to a device, or 'setting' it into operation.
Pronunciation Guide
The 'tsu' is often devoiced (whispered). The 'u' sound is very light. The 'su' is also often devoiced.
Similar to UK, with devoiced 'tsu' and 'su'. The 'a' in 'ma' is clearer than in UK pronunciation.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'tsu' too strongly.
- Not devoicing the 'u' in 'tsu' or the 'u' in 'su' at the end of the word.
- Adding unnecessary stress to a particular syllable.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read in context, especially with common nouns.
Easy to write in basic sentences.
Easy to pronounce and use in common phrases.
Easy to recognize when heard in context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs
電気<strong>を</strong>つけます (I turn on the light) vs. 電気がつきます (The light turns on).
Using the て-form for requests
電気<strong>をつけて</strong>ください (Please turn on the light).
Using 〜ないと (nai to) for necessity
暑いから、エアコンをつけないと。(Atsui kara, eakon o tsukenai to.) - Because it's hot, I have to turn on the AC.
Examples by Level
電気をつけます。
electricity/light ON-turn
電気 (denki) is the noun for electricity/light. を (o) is the direct object particle.
テレビをつけます。
TV ON-turn
テレビ (terebi) is a loanword for television.
ラジオをつけますか？
radio ON-turn ?
か (ka) at the end of a sentence makes it a question.
はい、つけます。
Yes, ON-turn.
はい (hai) means yes.
いいえ、つけません。
No, NOT ON-turn.
つけません (tsukemasen) is the negative form.
部屋の電気をつけます。
room's light ON-turn.
の (no) is a particle showing possession or relation ('s).
エンジンをつけます。
engine ON-turn.
エンジン (enjin) is a loanword for engine. This is a common usage, though かける (kakeru) is also used.
パソコンをつけます。
computer ON-turn.
パソコン (pasokon) is short for personal computer.
部屋が暗いです。電気をつけましょうか。
room dark is. light ON-turn shall we?
ましょう (mashou) is a suggestion form, 'shall we?'
帰ったら、まずテレビをつけます。
return when, first TV ON-turn.
〜たら (~tara) means 'when' or 'if' something happens.
このボタンを押すと、ライトがつきます。
this button press, light turns ON.
つきます (tsukimasu) is the intransitive form, meaning 'turns on' by itself.
朝早く起きるので、アラームをつけました。
morning early wake up because, alarm ON-turned.
〜ました (~mashita) is the past polite tense.
エアコンをつけないと、暑いです。
air conditioner turn on if not, hot is.
〜ないと (~nai to) means 'if one doesn't do X'.
明かりをつけてください。
light ON-turn please.
〜てください (~te kudasai) is a polite request.
彼がスピーチを始める前に、マイクをつけました。
he speech start before, microphone ON-turned.
前に (mae ni) means 'before'.
この機械は使う前に、電源をつけなければなりません。
this machine use before, power ON-turn must.
〜なければなりません (~nakereba narimasen) means 'must do'.
部屋が暗いので、電気をつけました。
room dark because, light turned on.
ので (node) is a causal conjunction, similar to 'because'.
寝る前に、必ずテレビを消すようにしています。
sleep before, always TV turn off try to do.
〜ようにしています (~you ni shite imasu) means 'try to make a habit of doing X'.
この新しいシステムは、操作が簡単で、すぐに使えます。
this new system, operation easy, immediately can use.
Implied context: The system is easy to turn on and use.
会議を始める前に、プロジェクターをつけ忘れないように注意してください。
meeting start before, projector turn on forget not so attention please.
〜ないように注意してください (~nai you ni chuui shite kudasai) means 'please be careful not to do X'.
古いラジオですが、まだ音が出ます。
old radio but, still sound comes out.
Implied context: The old radio can still be turned on and works.
夏は暑いので、朝から冷房をつけています。
summer hot because, morning from air conditioning turning on.
冷房 (reibou) means air conditioning (cooling).
このゲーム機は、電源を入れるとすぐに起動します。
this game console, power turn on immediately starts.
電源を入れる (dengen o ireru) is another way to say 'turn on the power'.
彼が部屋に入ると、自動的に照明がついた。
he room enter when, automatically lighting turned on.
自動的に (jidouteki ni) means automatically.
部屋の明かりをつけたままで寝てしまった。
room's light ON state with sleep away did.
〜たままで (~tama de) means 'while remaining in a state'.
古い映画館では、上映前に映写機の電源を入れる音が聞こえた。
old cinema in, screening before projector's power turn on sound was heard.
上映 (jouei) means screening/showing. 映写機 (eishaki) is a projector.
彼は、議論を活性化させるために、あえて挑発的な意見をつけた。
he, discussion activate to, deliberately provocative opinion attached/added.
This uses a figurative sense of 'tsukeru' related to inciting or adding something to a situation.
この最新のスマートホームシステムは、音声コマンドで照明や家電を遠隔操作できる。
this latest smart home system, voice command with lights and home appliances remotely operate can.
遠隔操作 (enkaku sousa) means remote operation.
長年の夢だった自分の店を開くにあたり、彼は情熱に火をつけた。
many years dream was own shop open upon, he passion fire lit.
情熱に火をつける (jounetsu ni hi o tsukeru) is an idiom meaning 'to ignite one's passion'.
説明書をよく読んでから、機器の電源をお入れください。
manual carefully read after, device's power ON please.
お入れください (o-ire kudasai) is a very polite form of request, using お〜ください (o- ~ kudasai).
彼のスピーチは、聴衆の心に深く響く何かをつけた。
his speech, audience's heart deeply resonate something attached/imparted.
Figurative use: 'tsukeru' here implies imparting a feeling or impact.
このアロマディフューザーは、リラックス効果のある香りを空間につけてくれる。
this aroma diffuser, relaxing effect having scent space attaches/imparts.
空間につける (kuukan ni tsukeru) means to fill the space with something, like a scent.
夜更かしをする際は、寝室の明かりはつけたままで、リビングの照明だけを落とすようにしている。
staying up late when, bedroom's light ON state with, living room's lighting only lower do.
夜更かし (yofukashi) means staying up late. 照明 (shoumei) means illumination/lighting.
その作家は、登場人物の心理描写に巧みに陰影をつけていた。
that author, characters' psychological depiction to skillfully shadow/nuance attached.
陰影をつける (in'ei o tsukeru) means to add shadow or nuance, often used metaphorically for psychological depth.
彼は、プロジェクトの成功を確実にするため、あらゆる可能性を考慮に入れ、リスク管理体制を構築した。
he, project's success guarantee to, all possibilities consideration into, risk management system built.
This sentence doesn't directly use 'tsukeru' but relates to 'putting things in place' or 'applying' measures, a conceptual link to the verb's broader sense.
彼女の提案は、会議に新たな視点をもたらし、参加者の間に活発な議論を呼び起こした。
her proposal, meeting to new perspective brought, participants among lively discussion evoked.
呼び起こす (yobiokosu) means to evoke or awaken. It relates to the 'inciting' aspect of 'tsukeru'.
この伝統的な調理法では、素材本来の旨味を引き出すために、火加減を精密に調整し、じっくりと味をつけていく。
this traditional cooking method in, ingredients' original umami draw out to, heat control precisely adjust, carefully flavor add.
旨味 (umami) is the fifth basic taste. 火加減 (higegen) is heat control.
彼のスピーチは、聴衆の心に火をつけ、行動を促す力があった。
his speech, audience's heart fire lit, action to urge power had.
火をつける (hi o tsukeru) used idiomatically for inspiration and motivation.
その芸術家は、キャンバスに独特のテクスチャをつけ、作品に深みを与えている。
that artist, canvas on unique texture attaches, work to depth gives.
テクスチャをつける (tekusucha o tsukeru) means to apply texture.
このソフトウェアは、ユーザーの好みに合わせてカスタマイズ可能なインターフェースを備えており、作業効率を大幅に向上させる。
this software, user's preferences according to customizable interface possesses, work efficiency significantly improve.
備える (sonaeru) means to be equipped with. Implies the software 'turns on' or 'enables' customization.
彼は、長年の研究の末、ついにその難病の治療法に光明をつけた。
he, many years research end, finally that difficult disease's treatment method light attached.
光明をつける (koumyou o tsukeru) is an idiom meaning 'to shed light on,' 'to bring hope,' or 'find a solution'.
その演出家は、古典劇に現代的な解釈を施し、登場人物の心理に新たな光を当てた。
that director, classic play modern interpretation applied, characters' psychology new light shone.
光を当てる (hikari o ateru) is similar to 'shedding light on,' implying a new perspective or understanding.
彼は、単なる事実の羅列に終わらず、聴衆の感情に訴えかける物語を紡ぎ、共感を呼び起こした。
he, mere facts' listing end not, audience's emotions appeal story wove, empathy evoked.
This relates to the 'inciting' or 'imparting' aspect of 'tsukeru,' focusing on emotional impact.
この古代の儀式は、自然界の力に敬意を払い、そのエネルギーを自らの内に取り込むことを目的としていた。
this ancient ritual, natural world's power respect pay, its energy self within incorporate aim was.
取り込む (torikomu) means to take in or incorporate. Conceptually linked to 'attaching' or 'applying' energy.
彼女の批評は、作品の表面的な魅力を超えて、その背後にある作者の意図や社会的な文脈にまで光を当てた。
her critique, work's superficial charm beyond, its behind author's intention and social context even light shone.
光を当てる (hikari o ateru) is used here to mean illuminating or highlighting deeper meanings.
その政治家は、国民の間に不満の火種をまき、社会不安を煽るような発言を繰り返した。
that politician, people among discontent's kindling scattered, social unrest incite like statements repeated.
火種をまく (hidane o maku) means to sow the seeds of discontent, a related concept to inciting action.
この哲学者は、人間の意識の深淵に分け入り、自己認識の新たな地平を切り開いた。
this philosopher, human consciousness's abyss entered, self-awareness new horizon opened.
地平を切り開く (chihei o kirihiraku) means to open up new horizons, conceptually similar to initiating or bringing something new into existence.
その音楽家は、伝統的な旋律に革新的なアレンジを施し、聴く者に新鮮な驚きと感動を与えた。
that musician, traditional melody innovative arrangement applied, listeners fresh surprise and emotion gave.
施す (hodokosu) means to apply or carry out. Similar to 'tsukeru' in the sense of applying something new.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"火をつける (hi o tsukeru)"
To light a fire; to incite, provoke, or start something (like a rumor or conflict).
彼の言葉が議論に火をつけた。(Kare no kotoba ga giron ni hi o tsuketa.) - His words ignited the debate.
neutral/figurative"灯油をつける (touyu o tsukeru)"
To light a lamp using kerosene.
停電の時、灯油をつけて明かりにした。(Teiden no toki, touyu o tsukete akari ni shita.) - During the blackout, I lit a kerosene lamp for light.
neutral/specific"匂いをつける (nioi o tsukeru)"
To impart a scent or smell onto something.
この柔軟剤は洗濯物に良い匂いをつけてくれる。(Kono juunanzai wa sentakumono ni yoi nioi o tsukete kureru.) - This fabric softener gives laundry a pleasant scent.
neutral"味をつける (aji o tsukeru)"
To add flavor to food; to season.
料理に塩で味をつけます。(Ryouri ni shio de aji o tsukemasu.) - I add salt to flavor the dish.
neutral"耳につける (mimi ni tsukeru)"
To wear something on one's ear (like an earring or hearing aid).
彼女は新しいイヤリングを耳につけていた。(Kanojo wa atarashii iaringu o mimi ni tsukete ita.) - She was wearing new earrings.
neutral"顔につける (kao ni tsukeru)"
To apply something to one's face (like makeup or cream).
出かける前に日焼け止めを顔につける。(Dekakeru mae ni hiyakedome o kao ni tsukeru.) - I apply sunscreen to my face before going out.
neutralEasily Confused
Both are related to 'on' or 'attached'.
つく (tsuku) is intransitive (the light turns on by itself), while つける (tsukeru) is transitive (I turn on the light).
電気が<strong>つきます</strong>。(The light turns on.) / 電気を<strong>つけます</strong>。(I turn on the light.)
It's the direct opposite action.
つける (tsukeru) means 'to turn on', while 消す (kesu) means 'to turn off'.
ライトを<strong>つけます</strong>。(Turn on the light.) / ライトを<strong>けします</strong>。(Turn off the light.)
Can also mean 'to turn on' in specific contexts.
つける (tsukeru) is general for lights/devices. 電源を入れる (dengen o ireru) specifically means 'to turn on the power'.
テレビを<strong>つけます</strong>。(Turn on the TV.) / 電源を<strong>入れます</strong>。(Turn on the power.)
Used for starting engines, which is a type of 'turning on'.
つける (tsukeru) is for general devices/lights. かける (kakeru) is specifically for starting engines (cars, phones ringing, etc.).
エンジンを<strong>かけます</strong>。(Start the engine.) / ラジオを<strong>つけます</strong>。(Turn on the radio.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + つけます。
テレビをつけます。
Noun + が + つきます。
電気がつきます。
〜ないと、つけないと。
暑いから、エアコンをつけないと。
〜たままでつけます。
電気をつけたまま寝てしまった。
〜ようにします/つけます。
寝る前に必ずテレビを消すようにします。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
While つける means 'to turn on,' かける is the standard verb for starting engines (cars, planes, etc.).
These are direct opposites. つける is to activate, while 消す/切る is to deactivate.
つける is typically for devices/lights. For abstract actions or events, other verbs are more appropriate.
The particle を (o) marks the direct object being turned on.
In most everyday conversations, politeness is expected, so the masu-form is necessary.
Tips
Sound Association
Think of 'tsu-ke-ma-su' sounding like 'switch-ma-ssive!' - a massive switch you flip to turn things on.
Everyday Activation
Use 'tsukemasu' whenever you're activating lights, TVs, radios, fans, or most electronic devices. It's your go-to for bringing things to life!
Politeness Matters
Remember to use the '-masu' form (tsukemasu) in most situations unless you're speaking with close friends or family, where the plain form (tsukeru) is fine.
Transitive vs. Intransitive
Pay attention to the difference: 'I turn ON the light' (電気<strong>を</strong>つけます - transitive) vs. 'The light turns ON' (電気<strong>が</strong>つきます - intransitive).
Whisper the Ends
Practice saying 'tsu' and 'su' at the end of 'tsukemasu' with a light, almost whispered sound (devoicing) for more natural pronunciation.
Avoid Car Confusion
Don't use 'tsukemasu' for starting a car. Remember 'kakeru' (かける) for engines!
From Attaching to Activating
The word originally meant 'to attach,' showing how language evolves with technology – attaching power to a device!
Contextual Practice
Instead of just memorizing the word, practice making sentences about your daily routine: 'I turn on my computer,' 'I turn on the lights when I get home.'
Figurative Extensions
Be aware that the base verb 'tsukeru' has other meanings like 'to add flavor' or 'to incite,' which appear in idioms.
Particle Power
Always remember the particle 'o' (を) after the noun when you are the one performing the action of turning something on (e.g., テレビ<strong>を</strong>つけます).
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine 'Tsu'nami hitting a button to 'Ke'ep the TV 'Ma'king 'Su'ounds!
Visual Association
Picture a hand firmly pressing a large, glowing 'ON' button.
Word Web
Challenge
Try turning on 5 different things around you and saying 'Tsukemasu!' each time.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: To attach, to fix, to apply, to set.
Cultural Context
No specific cultural sensitivity issues, but politeness levels (using -masu form) are important in Japanese culture.
In English-speaking cultures, 'turning on' is a very common phrase associated with technology and daily life, much like 'tsukemasu' in Japanese.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Entering a dark room
- 電気をつけます (Denki o tsukemasu) - I'll turn on the light.
- 明かりをつけてください (Akari o tsukete kudasai) - Please turn on the light.
Starting entertainment
- テレビをつけます (Terebi o tsukemasu) - I'll turn on the TV.
- 音楽をつけます (Ongaku o tsukemasu) - I'll put on some music.
Using appliances
- エアコンをつけます (Eakon o tsukemasu) - I'll turn on the air conditioner.
- パソコンをつけます (Pasokon o tsukemasu) - I'll turn on the computer.
Starting a vehicle
- エンジンをかけます (Enjin o kakemasu) - I'll start the engine. (Note: uses かけます, not つけます)
Conversation Starters
"部屋が暗いですね。電気をつけましょうか？ (Heya ga kurai desu ne. Denki o tsukemashou ka?) - It's dark in here, isn't it? Shall I turn on the light?"
"今日のニュース、テレビでつけますか？ (Kyou no nyuusu, terebi de tsukemasu ka?) - Shall we turn on the TV for today's news?"
"もう夜なので、そろそろ電気をつけないと。 (Mou yoru nanode, sorosoro denki o tsukenai to.) - It's getting late (night), so I should probably turn on the lights soon."
"この部屋、ちょっと暑くない？エアコンつけようか。 (Kono heya, chotto atsukunai? Eakon tsukeyou ka.) - Isn't it a bit hot in this room? Shall we turn on the air conditioner?"
"何か音楽でもつけますか？ (Nani ka ongaku demo tsukemasu ka?) - How about putting on some music?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you entered a dark room and turned on the light. What did you say in Japanese?
List 5 things in your home that you turn on daily. Write the Japanese phrase for each.
Think about a time you forgot to turn something off. What was it, and what happened?
Write a short paragraph about your favorite device and how you turn it on.
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsつけます (tsukemasu) is the transitive verb, meaning 'I/you/he/she turn something on' (e.g., 電気<strong>を</strong>つけます - I turn on the light). つきます (tsukimasu) is the intransitive verb, meaning 'something turns on by itself' (e.g., 電気がつきます - The light turns on).
It's better to use かけます (kakemasu) or specifically エンジンをかける (enjin o kakeru) for starting a car engine. While つけます is 'to turn on,' かけます is the conventional verb for engines.
The most common way to say 'turn off' is 消します (keshimasu). For power switches, 切ります (kirimasu) can also be used.
Yes, the base verb つける (tsukeru) has broader meanings like 'to attach,' 'to apply,' or 'to add.' This leads to idioms like '火をつける' (to light a fire/incite) or '味をつける' (to add flavor).
The plain or dictionary form is つける (tsukeru).
Yes, you can say パソコンをつけます (pasokon o tsukemasu). However, the more technical term is 起動します (kidou shimasu).
The particle を (o) marks the direct object of the verb. In this case, it indicates that 'electricity/light' (電気) is the thing being turned on.
Yes. つけます (tsukemasu) is polite. つける (tsukeru) is plain/casual. For very formal or technical contexts, you might see 点灯する (tentou suru) for lights or 起動する (kidou suru) for systems.
Test Yourself
部屋が暗いです。電気を ______。
Since the room is dark, you need to 'turn on' the light (電気).
What does 'テレビをつけます' mean?
テレビ (TV) + を (particle) + つけます (turn on).
You would use 'つけます' to say 'turn off the light'.
つけます means 'to turn on'. The verb for 'to turn off' is 消します (keshimasu).
Word
Meaning
These are common nouns that are often turned on using つけます.
The correct order is: Before sleeping, always turn off the TV. (寝る前に、必ずテレビを消します。)
夏は暑いので、______ をつけてください。
In summer when it's hot, you would turn on a fan (扇風機) for cooling.
Which verb is most appropriate for starting a computer?
起動します (kidou shimasu) is the technical term for starting up computers and systems.
The idiom '火をつける' (hi o tsukeru) can mean 'to incite' or 'spark' an event.
Yes, besides lighting a fire, it's often used figuratively to mean provoking or starting something.
彼は、議論に______ をつけた。
The idiom '議論に火をつける' (giron ni hi o tsukeru) means to ignite or provoke a debate.
The sentence '彼のスピーチは、聴衆の心に響く何かをつけた' means 'His speech imparted something that resonated with the audience's hearts.'
Score: /10
Summary
Mastering 'tsukemasu' unlocks essential daily conversations about activating devices and lights.
- つけます (tsukemasu) means 'to turn on' or 'to switch on'.
- Used for lights, electronics, and devices.
- Commonly paired with nouns like 電気 (light) and テレビ (TV).
- Has related forms like つける (plain) and つく (intransitive).
Sound Association
Think of 'tsu-ke-ma-su' sounding like 'switch-ma-ssive!' - a massive switch you flip to turn things on.
Everyday Activation
Use 'tsukemasu' whenever you're activating lights, TVs, radios, fans, or most electronic devices. It's your go-to for bringing things to life!
Politeness Matters
Remember to use the '-masu' form (tsukemasu) in most situations unless you're speaking with close friends or family, where the plain form (tsukeru) is fine.
Transitive vs. Intransitive
Pay attention to the difference: 'I turn ON the light' (電気<strong>を</strong>つけます - transitive) vs. 'The light turns ON' (電気<strong>が</strong>つきます - intransitive).
Example
電気をつけてください。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More daily_life words
じゅうしょ
A2The particulars of the place where someone lives.
住所
A2address, residence
～後
A2after
目覚まし
B1Alarm clock. A clock that makes a noise to wake someone up.
目覚まし時計
B1An alarm clock.
もう少し
B1A little more.
ひとりで
A2Alone.
~のに
B1Even though; despite (particle/conjunction).
ごぜん
A2Morning (a.m.).
煩い
B1Noisy; annoying.
