At the A1 level, you should focus on 'うがいする' (ugai suru) as a simple action verb that means 'to gargle.' In Japan, this is a very common daily habit, much like brushing your teeth. You will most often see it written in hiragana. At this stage, you only need to know the basic present and past forms: 'うがいします' (I gargle) and 'うがいしました' (I gargled). You should also recognize it when paired with '手洗い' (tearai - hand washing), as these two usually go together. For example, if you hear 'うがいしてください' (Ugai shite kudasai), someone is simply asking you to gargle. It's a useful word to know if you are staying with a Japanese family or visiting a school. Remember, Japanese people gargle not just when they are sick, but every time they come home from outside to stay healthy. Practice saying 'Mizu de ugai shimasu' (I gargle with water). This is the simplest way to use the word. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just treat it as a routine activity you do at the sink.
At the A2 level, you should understand that 'うがいする' is a 'suru-verb' and be able to conjugate it into various forms like the -te form (うがいして) or the negative form (うがいしない). You should also learn the particle 'で' (de) to specify what you are gargling with, such as '水で' (mizu de - with water) or 'お茶で' (ocha de - with tea). At this level, you might encounter the word in health-related contexts, like a poster at a train station or a pharmacy. You should be able to understand simple instructions like '外から帰ったら、うがいをしましょう' (Soto kara kaettara, ugai o shimashou - Let's gargle when we get home from outside). You should also be aware of the cultural expectation in Japan: gargling is a preventative measure. If you are invited to someone's house and they offer you a chance to gargle, understand it as a polite gesture of care. You can also start using adverbs like '毎日' (mainichi - every day) or 'すぐに' (sugu ni - immediately) to describe your gargling habits. Understanding the difference between 'ugai suru' (throat and mouth) and 'kuchi o yusugu' (just rinsing the mouth) will also help you be more precise.
At the B1 level, you can use 'うがいする' more naturally in conversations about health and daily routines. You should be comfortable using it with various auxiliary verbs, such as 'うがいしたほうがいい' (ugai shita hou ga ii - you should gargle) or 'うがいしなければならない' (ugai shinakereba naranai - must gargle). You should also recognize the noun form 'うがい' used on its own or with the particle 'を' (ugai o suru). At this stage, you should learn about 'うがい薬' (ugai-gusuri - gargling medicine/solution) and how to ask for it at a pharmacy. You might also start noticing the onomatopoeic expressions 'ガラガラ' (gara-gara) for the sound of gargling and 'ブクブク' (buku-buku) for rinsing the mouth. You can use these to describe exactly how you are cleaning your mouth. Additionally, you should be able to explain the Japanese custom of 'tearai ugai' to others. For example, '日本では、風邪をひかないように、みんなうがいをします' (In Japan, everyone gargles so they don't catch a cold). This level involves understanding the 'why' behind the word, not just the 'what.'
At the B2 level, you should be able to discuss the effectiveness and cultural significance of gargling in Japan. You might encounter articles or news reports discussing whether gargling with water is as effective as gargling with medicine. You should be able to use the word in more complex sentence structures, such as 'うがいをすることで、喉の潤いを保つことができます' (By gargling, you can keep your throat moist). You should also be familiar with the formal/medical equivalent '含嗽' (gansou) and recognize it in written documents or at the hospital. At this level, you can use 'うがい' in a broader sense of hygiene management. You might also learn about the etymology of the word, which relates to the 'ukai' (cormorant fishing) where birds spit out fish, which is a fun cultural fact to share. You should be able to understand and use phrases like '念入りにうがいする' (to gargle conscientiously) or 'こまめにうがいする' (to gargle frequently). Your understanding should move beyond the physical act to the social expectations and public health implications of the habit in Japanese society.
At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'うがいする' and its place in the broader Japanese health and social system. You should be able to participate in detailed discussions about public hygiene policies, including the historical development of the 'tearai ugai' campaigns in schools. You should be comfortable using the formal '含嗽' (gansou) in professional or academic contexts without hesitation. You can also appreciate the literary or metaphorical uses of the word, if any, although 'ugai' remains largely a practical term. You should be able to distinguish between different types of gargling solutions and their chemical properties (like povidone-iodine vs. salt water) and discuss them in Japanese. At this level, you should also be aware of the social etiquette surrounding gargling—where it is appropriate to do it and how it is perceived by different generations. You might also explore how the practice of 'ugai' has changed over time, perhaps in response to global health crises like COVID-19. Your vocabulary should include related terms like '粘膜' (nenmaku - mucous membrane) and '殺菌' (sakkin - sterilization) to explain the process of gargling in technical detail.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 'うがいする' and all its cultural, historical, and linguistic connotations. You can analyze the word's etymology from 'ukai' (cormorant fishing) and discuss how the phonetic shift occurred over centuries. You are capable of reading and understanding archaic or highly specialized texts that might use the rare kanji '嗽' or '含嗽.' You can engage in high-level debates about the scientific efficacy of gargling as practiced in Japan versus Western medical perspectives, using sophisticated vocabulary and complex rhetorical structures. You understand the subtle social cues associated with the word—for instance, how a mother's 'Ugai shinasai!' carries a different weight than a doctor's 'Gansou shite kudasai.' You can also use the word creatively in writing or speech, perhaps using it as a symbol of Japanese meticulousness or collective responsibility. At this pinnacle of proficiency, 'うがいする' is not just a verb to you; it is a thread in the complex fabric of Japanese cultural identity, and you can weave it into any conversation or analysis with precision and elegance.

うがいする em 30 segundos

  • うがいする (ugai suru) means to gargle or rinse your mouth and throat.
  • It is a core part of Japanese daily hygiene, often paired with hand washing.
  • The word is a 'suru-verb' and is almost always written in hiragana.
  • It is used both for daily prevention and for treating a sore throat.

The Japanese verb うがいする (ugai suru) is a fundamental part of the Japanese daily lexicon, translating primarily to 'to gargle' or 'to rinse one's mouth.' However, its cultural weight in Japan far exceeds its English counterpart. While an English speaker might only gargle when they have a sore throat, a Japanese person is taught from early childhood that ugai is a vital preventative measure to stay healthy. It is almost always paired with 手洗い (tearai - hand washing). Together, the phrase 手洗いとうがい (tearai to ugai) represents the gold standard of personal hygiene and illness prevention in Japan, especially during the cold and flu seasons or the hay fever (pollen) season.

Daily Ritual
Upon returning home from school, work, or even a quick trip to the grocery store, the first thing many Japanese people do is head to the sink. They wash their hands thoroughly and then perform ugai. This habit is so ingrained that most Japanese households have a dedicated 'ugai cup' by the bathroom sink.

外から帰ったら、すぐにうがいするのが習慣です。 (Soto kara kaettara, sugu ni ugai suru no ga shuukan desu.) - It is my habit to gargle immediately after returning from outside.

Onomatopoeic Nuance
There are two distinct types of 'ugai' often discussed. The first is Buku-buku ugai, which is rinsing the cheeks and between the teeth (swishing). The second is Gara-gara ugai, which is the classic head-back throat gargle. If someone tells you to 'ugai suru,' they usually mean both, starting with the swish to clean the mouth and ending with the throat gargle.

喉が痛いので、イソジンでうがいしました。 (Nodo ga itai node, Isojin de ugai shimashita.) - My throat hurt, so I gargled with Isodine (povidone-iodine).

The term is a Suru-verb, meaning it is formed by taking the noun ugai (gargling) and adding suru (to do). In casual speech, you might just hear 'Ugai shita?' (Did you gargle?). In more formal settings, such as a doctor's office, you would hear 'Ugai o shite kudasai' (Please gargle). While the kanji exists, it is extremely rare and considered 'Hyogaiji' (outside the common use list). You will almost exclusively see it written in Hiragana as うがい.

風邪の予防のために、毎日うがいしています。 (Kaze no yobou no tame ni, mainichi ugai shite imasu.) - I gargle every day to prevent colds.

Social Expectation
If you visit a Japanese home during the winter, the host might offer you a cup and say, 'Ugai shimasu ka?' (Would you like to gargle?). This isn't a comment on your hygiene; it's a polite gesture of hospitality to help you stay healthy during your visit. It is socially acceptable and even encouraged to gargle in public restrooms in Japan, a sight that might surprise Western visitors.

子供に「うがいしなさい」と注意した。 (Kodomo ni 'Ugai shinasai' to chuui shita.) - I warned my child, 'Gargle!'

In summary, ugai suru is more than just a medical action; it is a cultural ritual of cleansing and protection. Whether it's using green tea (which contains catechins thought to fight viruses), salt water, or specialized medicinal rinses, the act of ugai is a cornerstone of Japanese wellness. Understanding this word gives you a window into the Japanese emphasis on community health and personal discipline.

Using うがいする correctly involves understanding its nature as a Suru-verb. This means it follows the standard conjugation patterns of suru (do). Depending on the politeness level and the intention of the speaker, the verb can take many forms. Because it is an action usually performed with a liquid, the particle で (de) is frequently used to indicate the medium (water, tea, medicine).

Basic Conjugation
To say 'I gargle' politely, use うがいします (ugai shimasu). For the past tense, 'I gargled,' use うがいしました (ugai shimashita). In casual conversation with friends, you can use the dictionary form うがいする or the past form うがいした.

お茶でうがいすると風邪をひきにくいそうです。 (Ocha de ugai suru to kaze o hikinikui sou desu.) - I heard that gargling with tea makes it harder to catch a cold.

Requests and Commands
When asking someone to gargle, the -te form is used. 'うがいしてください' (Ugai shite kudasai) is a polite request. Parents often use the command form with their children: 'うがいしなさい!' (Ugai shinasai! - Do your gargling!).

診察の前に、まずここでうがいしてください。 (Shinsatsu no mae ni, mazu koko de ugai shite kudasai.) - Before the examination, please gargle here first.

The verb is also often used in the -te iru form to describe a habit. うがいしています (ugai shite imasu) means 'I am gargling' or 'I have been gargling (as a habit).' This is common when discussing health routines with a doctor or a friend.

インフルエンザが流行っているので、こまめにうがいしています。 (Infuruenza ga hayatte iru node, komame ni ugai shite imasu.) - Since the flu is going around, I am gargling frequently.

Combining with Adverbs
Common adverbs used with ugai suru include しっかり (shikkari - thoroughly), こまめに (komame ni - frequently/diligently), and 念入りに (nen'iri ni - carefully/conscientiously). These emphasize the effort put into the hygiene act.

塩水でうがいするのが一番効果的だと言う人もいます。 (Shiomizu de ugai suru no ga ichiban koukateki da to iu hito mo imasu.) - Some people say that gargling with salt water is the most effective.

Finally, it's important to note the negative forms. うがいしない (ugai shinai) is 'not gargle.' If you want to say someone 'didn't gargle,' use うがいしなかった (ugai shinakatta). Encouraging someone not to forget is うがいを忘れないで (ugai o wasurenaide).

If you spend any time in Japan during the winter months, you will hear うがいする everywhere. It is a staple of public service announcements, school morning assemblies, and family dinner table conversations. It is one of those words that bridges the gap between medical advice and common sense.

In Schools
Every Japanese elementary student knows the phrase 'Tearai, Ugai!' It’s often posted on colorful charts near the classroom sinks. Teachers will remind students: 'Kyoushitsu ni hairu mae ni, ugai shimashou!' (Let's gargle before entering the classroom!). It is treated with the same necessity as doing homework.

学校の放送で「手洗いとうがいをしましょう」と流れた。 (Gakkou no housou de 'Tearai to ugai o shimashou' to nagareta.) - An announcement played at school saying, 'Let's wash our hands and gargle.'

In the Workplace
In Japanese offices, especially in open-plan layouts, if one person starts coughing, it's common for a colleague to kindly suggest, 'Ugai shite kita hou ga ii desu yo' (It might be better if you go gargle). Companies often provide gargling solution (ugai-gusuri) in the staff restrooms during peak flu season.

会社の洗面所にうがい薬が置いてある。 (Kaisha no senmenjo ni ugai-gusuri ga oite aru.) - There is gargling medicine placed in the company's washroom.

You will also hear this at the pharmacy (yakkyoku). When you buy cold medicine, the pharmacist will almost certainly advise you: 'Shikkari ugai mo shite kudasai ne' (Please make sure to gargle thoroughly as well). It is seen as a complementary treatment to any oral medication.

薬局で「この薬でうがいしてください」と言われた。 (Yakkyoku de 'Kono kusuri de ugai shite kudasai' to iwaneta.) - I was told at the pharmacy, 'Please gargle with this medicine.'

At the Dentist
At a dental clinic, the dentist or assistant will frequently say 'Hai, ugai shite kudasai' (Okay, please rinse/gargle) after they finish a part of the procedure. In this context, it often refers to the 'buku-buku' (swishing) type of rinsing to clear the mouth of debris.

歯医者で「はい、うがいしてください」と言われた。 (Haisha de 'Hai, ugai shite kudasai' to iwaneta.) - At the dentist, I was told, 'Okay, please rinse.'

In essence, ugai suru is a word that follows you from the private bathroom to the public sphere, serving as a constant reminder of the Japanese commitment to hygiene and social responsibility.

While うがいする seems straightforward, there are several nuances and common pitfalls for English speakers and learners of Japanese. The most frequent errors involve confusing the type of rinsing or using the wrong grammatical particles.

Confusing 'Ugai' with 'Kuchi o susugu'
In English, 'rinse' can apply to many things. In Japanese, ugai specifically involves the mouth and throat. If you are rinsing your mouth after brushing your teeth (swishing and spitting), it is ugai (specifically buku-buku ugai). However, if you are rinsing soap off your hands or washing a dish, you must use susugu (すすぐ) or arainagasu (洗い流す). Never use ugai for non-oral rinsing.

❌ お皿をうがいする。 (Incorrect: Gargle the dishes.)
✅ お皿をすすぐ。 (Correct: Rinse the dishes.)

Particle Confusion: 'o' vs. 'de'
Learners often use o when they should use de. If you are using a liquid (like water) to perform the act, use de. Mizu de ugai suru (Gargle with water). If you use o, it implies 'to gargle the water' which sounds like you are acting upon the water itself rather than using it as a tool.

❌ 水をうがいする。 (Awkward: Gargle the water.)
✅ 水でうがいする。 (Natural: Gargle with water.)

Another mistake is the assumption that ugai is only for the throat. As mentioned before, ugai covers both the mouth and the throat. In a medical context, if a doctor wants you to specifically gargle deep in the throat, they might say nodo no oku de ugai shite (gargle in the back of the throat). Conversely, if they just want you to rinse your mouth, they might say kuchi no naka o yusugu.

Misunderstanding 'Ugai-gusuri'
Foreigners sometimes mistake ugai-gusuri (gargling medicine) for something you should swallow. It is purely for gargling and spitting out. Always look for the 'うがい用' (for gargling) label on bottles in Japan.

うがい薬を飲みました。 (Incorrect: I drank the gargling medicine.)
うがい薬でうがいしました。 (Correct: I gargled with gargling medicine.)

Finally, remember that ugai suru is a verb of action. Using it as a noun requires the particle no or koto to nominalize it, or simply using the noun form ugai. For example, 'Ugai wa taisetsu desu' (Gargling is important) is better than 'Ugai suru wa taisetsu desu.'

While うがいする is the most common way to say 'to gargle,' Japanese has several related terms that offer more specific meanings depending on the context—whether it's medical, formal, or descriptive of the sound.

すすぐ (Susugu)
This is a general word for 'to rinse.' It can be used for the mouth (kuchi o susugu), but it is also used for clothes, dishes, or hair. It lacks the 'throat' connotation that ugai has.
ゆすぐ (Yusugu)
Very similar to susugu, but yusugu often implies a more vigorous shaking or swishing action. You 'yusugu' a bottle to clean the inside, or 'yusugu' your mouth after eating.

食後に口をゆすぐ。 (Shokugo ni kuchi o yusugu.) - Rinse the mouth after a meal.

含嗽する (Gansou suru)
This is the formal, medical term for gargling. You will see this in medical textbooks, on hospital signs, or in formal medical reports. It is the 'Sino-Japanese' (Kango) version of ugai.

指示に従って含嗽を行ってください。 (Shiji ni shitagatte gansou o okonatte kudasai.) - Please perform gargling according to the instructions.

ガラガラ (Gara-gara)
This is the onomatopoeia for the sound of gargling. While not a verb itself, it is often used with suru to emphasize the throat-gargling action: 'Gara-gara suru.'
ブクブク (Buku-buku)
The onomatopoeia for the sound of swishing water in the mouth. Used to specify rinsing the mouth/cheeks rather than the throat.

ガラガラ」とうがいをして、「ブクブク」と口をゆすぐ。 (Gara-gara to ugai o shite, buku-buku to kuchi o yusugu.) - Gargle with a 'gara-gara' sound and rinse the mouth with a 'buku-buku' sound.

In summary, while ugai suru is your 'all-purpose' word, knowing yusugu for general rinsing and gansou for formal contexts will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise. Always pay attention to whether you are cleaning just the mouth or the throat as well!

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The phonetic change from 'ukai' to 'ugai' happened over several centuries as the word became associated with hygiene rather than fishing. The rare kanji for 'ugai' (嗽) actually means 'cough' in Chinese, but in Japanese, it was adopted for gargling.

Guia de pronúncia

UK ʊgaɪ sɯᵝɾɯ
US ugai suɾu
Japanese has pitch accent rather than stress. 'Ugai' usually has a 'Low-High-High' pattern.
Rima com
Sugai (a surname) Nugai (stem of 'nugau' - rare) Mugai (harmless) Tugai (a pair/couple) Kugai (bitter world) Shugai (main injury) Bugai (outside) Yugai (harmful)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'u' too long like 'oo-gai'.
  • English-style 'r' in 'suru' instead of the Japanese tap.
  • Dropping the initial 'u' (saying 'gai suru').
  • Misplacing the pitch accent on the first syllable.
  • Pronouncing 'ai' as two separate vowels rather than a diphthong.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 1/5

Very easy as it's mostly in Hiragana.

Escrita 2/5

Simple hiragana, but 'suru' verb conjugation must be learned.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is easy, but pitch accent takes practice.

Audição 1/5

Distinct sound, easy to pick out in conversation.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

する (To do) 水 (Water) 喉 (Throat) 口 (Mouth) 洗う (To wash)

Aprenda a seguir

手洗い (Hand washing) 風邪 (Cold) 予防 (Prevention) 薬 (Medicine) 習慣 (Habit)

Avançado

含嗽 (Formal gargling) 粘膜 (Mucous membrane) 殺菌 (Sterilization) 臨床試験 (Clinical trial) 衛生観念 (Sense of hygiene)

Gramática essencial

Suru-verbs (Noun + する)

うがい (noun) + する = うがいする (verb)

Particle 'de' for means/instrument

水で (with water) うがいする

-te form for requests

うがいしてください (Please gargle)

Nominalizing with 'no'

うがいするのは大切だ (Gargling is important)

Conditional 'tara'

帰ったら、うがいする (When I get home, I'll gargle)

Exemplos por nível

1

うがいをします。

I gargle.

Simple present polite form.

2

水でうがいします。

I gargle with water.

Use 'de' for the medium used.

3

うがいしましたか?

Did you gargle?

Past tense question.

4

うがいしてください。

Please gargle.

-te kudasai for requests.

5

毎日うがいします。

I gargle every day.

Using 'mainichi' as an adverb.

6

手洗いとうがい。

Hand washing and gargling.

Common noun pairing.

7

ここでうがいします。

I gargle here.

Using 'koko' for location.

8

うがい、した?

Did you gargle? (Casual)

Short past form for casual questions.

1

外から帰ったら、うがいします。

When I return from outside, I gargle.

-tara (when/if) conditional.

2

喉が痛いので、うがいしました。

My throat hurt, so I gargled.

-node (because) for reasons.

3

うがいをしないと、風邪をひきますよ。

If you don't gargle, you'll catch a cold.

-nai to (if not) conditional.

4

お茶でうがいするのはいいことです。

Gargling with tea is a good thing.

Nominalizing with 'no wa'.

5

うがいしなさいと母に言われました。

I was told by my mother to gargle.

Command form 'shinasai' in a quote.

6

しっかりうがいしてくださいね。

Please gargle thoroughly, okay?

'Shikkari' adverb for emphasis.

7

うがい薬はありますか?

Do you have gargling medicine?

Asking for an object.

8

うがいをしてから、ご飯を食べます。

After gargling, I eat a meal.

-te kara (after doing) sequence.

1

風邪の予防には、うがいが一番です。

For cold prevention, gargling is the best.

Using the noun 'ugai' as a subject.

2

こまめにうがいするようにしています。

I try to gargle frequently.

-youni shite iru (making an effort to).

3

うがいしすぎて、喉が痛くなりました。

I gargled too much and my throat started to hurt.

-sugiru (too much).

4

塩水でうがいすると、喉にいいですよ。

Gargling with salt water is good for your throat.

-to (if/when) natural consequence.

5

うがいの仕方を教えてください。

Please teach me how to gargle.

-kata (way of doing).

6

うがいをするのを忘れました。

I forgot to gargle.

-no o wasureru (forget to do).

7

学校ではみんなでうがいをします。

At school, everyone gargles together.

Collective action.

8

イソジンを使ってうがいします。

I gargle using Isodine.

-te form of 'tsukau' to show means.

1

うがいの効果については諸説あります。

There are various theories about the effectiveness of gargling.

Formal 'shosetsu' (various theories).

2

念入りにうがいをすることが推奨されています。

Conscientious gargling is recommended.

Passive voice 'suishou sarete iru'.

3

帰宅時のうがいは日本の習慣です。

Gargling upon returning home is a Japanese custom.

Noun modification with 'ji' (at the time of).

4

うがい薬を薄めて使ってください。

Please dilute the gargling medicine before use.

Verb 'ususmeru' (to dilute).

5

ガラガラとうがいをする音が聞こえる。

I can hear the sound of someone gargling (gara-gara).

Onomatopoeia with 'to'.

6

喉の粘膜を保護するためにうがいをする。

Gargle to protect the mucous membranes of the throat.

-tame ni (in order to).

7

最近はうがいをしない若者が増えているそうだ。

I heard that the number of young people who don't gargle is increasing lately.

Noun phrase 'ugai o shinai wakamono'.

8

うがいを怠ると、すぐに風邪をひいてしまう。

If you neglect gargling, you'll catch a cold right away.

Verb 'okotaru' (to neglect).

1

含嗽は口腔衛生を保つ上で不可欠である。

Gargling is indispensable for maintaining oral hygiene.

Formal term 'gansou' and 'fukaketsu' (indispensable).

2

うがいの起源を辿ると、鵜飼に行き着くという説がある。

There is a theory that if you trace the origin of 'ugai,' you arrive at cormorant fishing.

-to iu setsu ga aru (there is a theory that).

3

水うがいだけでも、風邪の発症率を下げると言われている。

It is said that gargling with just water lowers the incidence of colds.

Compound 'mizu-ugai' and 'hasshouritsu' (incidence rate).

4

公共の場でのうがいは、マナーとして定着している。

Gargling in public places has become established as a matter of etiquette.

Verb 'teichaku suru' (to take root/become established).

5

医師は患者に、イソジンによる含嗽を命じた。

The doctor ordered the patient to gargle with Isodine.

Formal 'ni yoru' (by means of) and 'meijita' (ordered).

6

うがいを励行することで、集団感染を防ぐ。

Prevent mass infection by encouraging gargling.

Formal verb 'reikou suru' (to encourage/enforce).

7

喉の違和感を覚えたら、まずうがいをすべきだ。

If you feel something wrong with your throat, you should gargle first.

Noun 'iwakan' (strange feeling) and 'subeki' (should).

8

うがいの習慣化が、公衆衛生の向上に寄与している。

The habituation of gargling contributes to the improvement of public health.

Noun 'shuukanka' (habituation) and 'kiyo suru' (contribute).

1

日本人の衛生観念において、うがいは象徴的な行為である。

In the Japanese sense of hygiene, gargling is a symbolic act.

Sophisticated noun 'eiseikannen' (sense of hygiene).

2

「うがい」という語の音韻変化には、歴史的な変遷が見て取れる。

Historical transitions can be seen in the phonological changes of the word 'ugai.'

Technical term 'onn'in henka' (phonological change).

3

大規模な臨床試験により、含嗽の予防的価値が再評価されている。

Through large-scale clinical trials, the preventative value of gargling is being re-evaluated.

Complex noun phrase 'yobouteki kachi' (preventative value).

4

うがいを単なる迷信と切り捨てるのは、早計であろう。

It would be premature to dismiss gargling as mere superstition.

Grammar 'kirisuteru' (dismiss) and 'soukei' (premature).

5

伝統的な鵜飼の動作が、日常生活の「うがい」へと転用された経緯は興味深い。

The process by which the actions of traditional cormorant fishing were adapted into everyday 'ugai' is fascinating.

Formal 'ten'you sareta keii' (process of adaptation).

6

うがい薬の成分が環境に与える影響も、無視できない課題だ。

The impact of gargling medicine components on the environment is also an issue that cannot be ignored.

Negative potential 'mushi dekinai' (cannot ignore).

7

幼少期からのうがいの徹底が、国民全体の健康寿命を延ばす一助となっている可能性がある。

It is possible that the thoroughness of gargling since childhood helps extend the healthy life expectancy of the entire nation.

Complex sentence with 'kenkou jumyou' (healthy life expectancy).

8

文学作品における「うがい」の描写は、しばしば内面的な浄化を暗示する。

The depiction of gargling in literary works often implies internal purification.

Abstract term 'naimenteki jouka' (internal purification).

Colocações comuns

水でうがいする
うがい薬を使う
しっかりうがいする
こまめにうがいする
お茶でうがいする
塩水でうがいする
うがいを忘れる
うがいを励行する
うがいを習慣にする
うがいを命じる

Frases Comuns

手洗い、うがい

— The standard pairing for hygiene. Always mentioned together.

手洗い、うがいは風邪予防の基本です。

うがい、した?

— A common greeting/check-in when someone comes home.

おかえり、うがいした?

うがいをしてください

— A polite request common in clinics or schools.

まず、あちらでうがいをしてください。

うがい薬

— Gargling solution/medicine.

うがい薬を買ってきました。

うがい用コップ

— A cup dedicated for gargling.

うがい用コップを新しく買った。

ガラガラうがい

— Specifically the throat-gargling action.

ガラガラうがいを30秒する。

ブクブクうがい

— Specifically the mouth-rinsing action.

まずはブクブクうがいから。

うがいが足りない

— Not gargling enough or thoroughly enough.

まだうがいが足りないよ。

うがいの習慣

— The habit of gargling.

うがいの習慣を身につける。

うがいを欠かさない

— To never miss gargling.

冬の間はうがいを欠かさない。

Frequentemente confundido com

うがいする vs すすぐ (Susugu)

Susugu is for general rinsing (dishes, clothes). Ugai is for mouth/throat.

うがいする vs 飲む (Nomu)

Nomu is to swallow. Ugai involves spitting the liquid out.

うがいする vs 洗う (Arau)

Arau is to wash (hands, face). Ugai is specifically for the internal mouth/throat.

Expressões idiomáticas

"鵜の真似をする烏"

— A crow imitating a cormorant (who is good at 'ugai'/fishing). Means to fail by blindly imitating someone more capable.

彼の真似をしても、鵜の真似をする烏になるだけだ。

Literary
"口を洗う"

— To wash the mouth. Sometimes used to mean taking back something bad you said.

そんな酷いことを言ったなら、口を洗ってきなさい。

Casual/Metaphorical
"喉元過ぎれば熱さを忘れる"

— Once it passes the throat, the heat is forgotten. Once a danger is past, the lesson is forgotten.

喉元過ぎれば熱さを忘れるで、彼はまた同じミスをした。

Common Proverb
"毒を食らわば皿まで"

— If you eat poison, eat the plate too. If you start something bad, finish it.

もう戻れない、毒を食らわば皿までだ。

Idiomatic
"開いた口が塞がらない"

— Cannot close the open mouth. To be speechless with shock or disgust.

彼の失礼な態度に、開いた口が塞がらない。

Common
"口を酸っぱくして言う"

— To say something until the mouth turns sour. To repeat advice over and over.

うがいをするように口を酸っぱくして言ったのに。

Common
"喉から手が出る"

— Hand coming out of the throat. To want something desperately.

あの時計が喉から手が出るほど欲しい。

Common
"口を濁す"

— To muddy the mouth. To speak ambiguously to avoid a clear answer.

彼は本当の理由については口を濁した。

Common
"喉を鳴らす"

— To make the throat sound. To gulp in anticipation of food or drink.

美味しそうなビールを見て喉を鳴らす。

Common
"口を割る"

— To break the mouth. To confess or spill a secret.

犯人はついに口を割った。

Common

Fácil de confundir

うがいする vs ゆすぐ (Yusugu)

Both involve water in the mouth.

Yusugu is swishing (mouth only). Ugai includes gargling (throat).

歯磨きの後はゆすぐ、風邪予防はうがいする。

うがいする vs がいする (Gaisuru)

Sounds similar without the 'u'.

Gaisuru (害する) means to harm or damage. Ugai is hygiene.

健康を害する vs うがいする。

うがいする vs うかがう (Ukagau)

Similar sounds.

Ukagau means to visit or ask politely. Completely unrelated.

お宅にうかがう vs 喉をうがいする。

うがいする vs うがい (Noun) vs うがいする (Verb)

Learners forget 'suru'.

Ugai is the noun 'gargling'. Ugai suru is the action 'to gargle'.

うがいは大切だ vs 今からうがいする。

うがいする vs はみがき (Hamigaki)

Both happen at the sink.

Hamigaki is brushing teeth. Ugai is gargling.

はみがきの後にうがいをする。

Padrões de frases

A1

[Object] でうがいします。

水でうがいします。

A2

[Action] したら、うがいします。

帰ったら、うがいします。

A2

うがいをしてください。

あそこでうがいをしてください。

B1

うがいするようにしています。

毎日うがいするようにしています。

B1

うがいしたほうがいいですよ。

喉が痛いなら、うがいしたほうがいいですよ。

B2

うがいの効果は [Result] です。

うがいの効果は人によります。

C1

うがいを励行すべきだ。

冬場はうがいを励行すべきだ。

C2

うがいの習慣化が [Noun] に寄与する。

うがいの習慣化が健康維持に寄与する。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

うがい (Gargling)
うがい薬 (Gargling medicine)
うがい受け (Gargling basin)
含嗽 (Formal gargling)

Verbos

うがいする (To gargle)
含嗽する (To gargle - formal)
ゆすぐ (To rinse)
すすぐ (To rinse)

Relacionado

手洗い (Hand washing)
喉 (Throat)
風邪 (Cold)
予防 (Prevention)
コップ (Cup)

Como usar

frequency

Extremely high during winter, high year-round in hygiene contexts.

Erros comuns
  • Using 'ugai suru' for rinsing dishes. Sara o susugu (皿をすすぐ).

    Ugai is only for the human mouth/throat.

  • Saying 'mizu o ugai suru'. Mizu de ugai suru.

    Use 'de' to indicate the liquid used as a tool.

  • Swallowing the 'ugai-gusuri'. Spit it out.

    Gargling medicine is toxic if consumed in large amounts. Always spit.

  • Confusing 'ugai' with 'ukai'. Ugai (Gargle) vs Ukai (Cormorant fishing).

    Though related, 'ukai' is a specific fishing term.

  • Using 'ugai' for brushing teeth. Hamigaki (歯磨き).

    They are different actions. You 'ugai' after you 'hamigaki'.

Dicas

The 'Tearai-Ugai' Rule

When you enter a Japanese home or school, remember the sequence: shoes off, hands washed, throat gargled. It's the ultimate 'I respect this space' move.

Using 'Suru' Correcty

Since it's a suru-verb, you can make it a polite request by saying 'Ugai shite kudasai.' It's very versatile!

Water is Enough

Studies in Japan have shown that simple water gargling significantly reduces the risk of catching a cold. Don't feel pressured to buy expensive solutions.

Learn the Onomatopoeia

Knowing 'gara-gara' and 'buku-buku' will help you understand specific instructions at the dentist or from a doctor.

Public Gargling

Don't be shy! If you feel a scratchy throat while out in Tokyo, feel free to use a public sink for a quick 'ugai.' It's socially praised.

Particle 'De'

Always use 'de' for the liquid. 'Ocha de ugai suru' (Gargle with tea). Using 'o' sounds like you are gargling the tea itself as an object.

Winter Essential

In winter (December-February), this word's frequency triples. It's the most important health word for the season.

The Bird Connection

Remember the cormorant fishing (ukai) to never forget the word 'ugai.' The bird spits out the fish, you spit out the water!

U-G-A-I

U Gargle Against Illness! (U-G-A-I). A simple English acronym to remember the meaning.

Hiragana is King

Even though kanji exists, using it might make you look like a medical textbook. Stick to hiragana for daily use.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine a bird (a cormorant) making a 'U' shape with its neck to 'GAI' (gargle) and then 'SURU' (do) it at the sink.

Associação visual

Picture a 'U' shaped sink where a person is gargling. The 'U' reminds you of the first letter of 'Ugai'.

Word Web

Water Throat Prevention Sink Spit Cold/Flu Handwash Cup

Desafio

Try to say 'Ugai shimasu' every time you go to the bathroom today. Even if you don't actually gargle, saying the word will cement the habit.

Origem da palavra

The word 'ugai' is believed to originate from 'ukai' (鵜飼), which is the traditional Japanese method of fishing using cormorants. In ukai, the fisherman makes the bird spit out the fish it has caught. The act of spitting out liquid from the mouth reminded people of this process.

Significado original: Spitting out like a cormorant.

Japonic

Contexto cultural

Be aware that making loud 'gara-gara' sounds in a quiet public restroom might be surprising to non-Japanese people, but it is perfectly normal in Japan.

English speakers usually only gargle when they already have a sore throat. The idea of doing it every day as prevention is a unique Japanese cultural point to explain.

Isodine (イソジン) commercials are famous for showing the 'gara-gara' action. Anime characters returning home almost always perform the 'Tearai, Ugai' ritual. The 'Pikotaro' (PPAP) health version includes 'Tearai, Ugai' instructions.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Returning home

  • ただいま、うがいするね。
  • うがいした?
  • まずうがいしてきて。
  • 手洗いとうがいを忘れずに。

At the clinic

  • 喉が痛いので、うがい薬をください。
  • 一日三回うがいしてください。
  • うがいはしていますか?
  • ここでうがいをお願いします。

School environment

  • うがいをしましょう!
  • うがいの時間ですよ。
  • みんなでうがいをしよう。
  • うがいコップを持ってきて。

Winter season

  • 風邪が流行っているからうがいして。
  • お茶でうがいするといいよ。
  • しっかりうがいしよう。
  • うがいが一番の予防だ。

At the dentist

  • はい、うがいしてください。
  • もう一度うがいをお願いします。
  • 口をよくゆすいでください。
  • うがい、終わりです。

Iniciadores de conversa

"「手洗いとうがい」は、あなたの国でも一般的ですか? (Is 'handwashing and gargling' common in your country?)"

"風邪の予防のために、何か特別なうがいをしていますか? (Do you do any special kind of gargling to prevent colds?)"

"日本ではお茶でうがいをすることもありますが、どう思いますか? (In Japan, people sometimes gargle with tea; what do you think?)"

"うがい薬は何を使っていますか? (What kind of gargling medicine do you use?)"

"子供の頃、うがいをするように厳しく言われましたか? (Were you told strictly to gargle when you were a child?)"

Temas para diário

今日の健康管理について書いてください。うがいはしましたか? (Write about your health management today. Did you gargle?)

日本に来て驚いた習慣について。うがいの習慣はどう思いましたか? (About a custom that surprised you in Japan. What did you think of the gargling habit?)

風邪をひいた時のあなたのルーティンを説明してください。 (Explain your routine when you catch a cold.)

「手洗い・うがい」の重要性について自分の考えを述べてください。 (State your thoughts on the importance of 'handwashing and gargling.')

あなたが知っている面白い健康法を一つ紹介してください。 (Introduce one interesting health method you know.)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, you don't. In Japan, gargling with plain tap water is very common and considered effective for daily prevention. Some people also use green tea or salt water.

Not exactly. Mouthwash is often for breath or dental health. 'Ugai' is primarily for the throat and preventing respiratory illnesses, though it can include mouth rinsing.

No, for washing your face, use 'kao o arau' (顔を洗う). 'Ugai' is strictly for the mouth and throat.

In Japan, it is not rude at all. It is seen as a sign that you are taking care of your health. You will often see people doing it in office or train station restrooms.

The onomatopoeia is 'gara-gara' (ガラガラ). People often use this word to describe the action, especially to children.

Health guidelines in Japan often suggest gargling for about 15-20 seconds, three times in a row.

Yes. First, you 'buku-buku' (swish) to clean the mouth and spit. Then you 'gara-gara' (tilt head back and gargle the throat) twice and spit.

Green tea contains catechins, which are believed to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a popular 'natural' gargling solution.

Yes, 'ugai' is a noun. Example: 'Ugai wa kaze no yobou ni naru' (Gargling becomes a cold prevention).

It is a concentrated solution you mix with water to gargle. The most famous brand in Japan is Isodine.

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write 'I gargle' in polite Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I gargle with water' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Please gargle' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I gargled' (casual) in Japanese.

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writing

Translate: 'I gargle every day to prevent colds.'

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writing

Translate: 'I forgot to gargle today.'

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writing

Translate: 'It is recommended to gargle thoroughly.'

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writing

Translate: 'Gargling with green tea is effective.'

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writing

Describe the cultural significance of 'ugai' in Japan (in Japanese).

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writing

Write a formal sentence using '含嗽'.

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writing

Write 'gargle and handwash' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Don't gargle' (casual) in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I want to gargle' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I heard that gargling is good' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Gargling is a sign of hygiene' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Is it water?' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'I am gargling' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'If you gargle, you won't get sick' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'The sound was gara-gara' in Japanese.

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writing

Write 'Gargling is a preventative measure' in Japanese.

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speaking

Say 'I gargle' in Japanese.

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speaking

Say 'Water, please' in Japanese.

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speaking

Say 'Please gargle here.'

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speaking

Say 'Did you gargle?' (casual).

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speaking

Explain that you gargle every day.

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speaking

Say 'I forgot to gargle.'

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speaking

Describe the sound of gargling using onomatopoeia.

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speaking

Tell someone they should gargle with tea.

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speaking

Discuss the preventative benefits of gargling.

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speaking

Use the formal term for gargling in a sentence.

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speaking

Say 'Hand washing and gargling'.

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speaking

Say 'I will gargle now'.

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speaking

Say 'My throat hurts, so I gargle'.

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speaking

Say 'It is a Japanese custom'.

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speaking

Say 'I encourage gargling'.

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speaking

Say 'Yes, I gargled'.

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speaking

Say 'Gargle with salt water'.

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speaking

Say 'I try to gargle'.

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speaking

Say 'Gargling medicine is here'.

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speaking

Say 'The origin is interesting'.

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listening

Listen to: 'うがいします。' What is the action?

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listening

Listen to: '水で。' What is the medium?

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listening

Listen to: 'うがいしてください。' Is this a request or a statement?

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listening

Listen to: 'うがいした?' Is this formal or informal?

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listening

Listen to: 'うがい薬。' What item is mentioned?

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listening

Listen to: 'こまめに。' What is the frequency?

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listening

Listen to: 'ガラガラ。' What sound is this?

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listening

Listen to: '予防。' What is the purpose?

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listening

Listen to: '含嗽。' What is the formal topic?

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listening

Listen to: '励行。' What is being done with the habit?

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listening

Listen to: '手洗い。' What is the other action?

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listening

Listen to: 'お茶で。' What is the medium?

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listening

Listen to: '喉が痛い。' Why gargle?

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listening

Listen to: '習慣。' What is 'ugai' called?

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listening

Listen to: '粘膜。' What part of the body is protected?

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/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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