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B1 verb #8,000 mais comum 8 min de leitura

灯す

tomosu Top 8,000

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas 灯す em 30 segundos

Explicação 灯す in your Level:

灯す (tomosu) is a verb that means 'to light a lamp' or 'to light a candle.' For beginners, it is easiest to think of it as a special way to say 'turn on' but only for things that have a flame or a soft light. Usually, you learn the word 'tsukeru' for 'turn on the light.' 'Tomosu' is a bit more difficult because it is not used for every light. You use it for candles (rousoku) or old-fashioned lamps. In Japanese, we say 'rousoku wo tomosu' which means 'I light a candle.' It is a very pretty word. If you use it, you sound like you are telling a story. Remember that it is a verb where you do the action to something. You are the one holding the match. It's a nice word to know if you like Japanese culture and festivals, where many lanterns are used. Just remember: for your phone or your room's big light, use 'tsukeru.' For a small, warm candle, use 'tomosu.' This word helps you describe cozy and quiet moments.

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At the A2 level, you should start distinguishing between different types of 'turning on.' While 'tsukeru' is your primary verb for electronics, 'tomosu' (灯す) is specifically for sources of light that feel more traditional or atmospheric. It is a transitive Godan verb. This means the pattern is '[Person] ga [Light Source] wo tomosu.' For example, 'Okaasan ga ranpu wo tomoshimashita' (Mother lit the lamp). You will often see this word in simple children's stories or descriptions of evening scenes. It carries a sense of warmth. You might also encounter its intransitive pair, 'tomoru' (灯る), which means 'to be lit' or 'to glow.' For example, 'Akari ga tomotte iru' means 'The light is glowing.' Understanding the difference between 'tomosu' (the action) and 'tomoru' (the state) is a key step in your progress. Practice using 'tomosu' when describing a birthday cake with candles or a lantern at a shrine. It adds a more descriptive, 'story-like' quality to your Japanese that 'tsukeru' cannot provide.

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At the B1 level, you are moving beyond simple physical descriptions into more nuanced and metaphorical language. 灯す (tomosu) is a perfect example of this. While its literal meaning is to light a candle or lamp, it is frequently used in B1-level texts and conversations to describe lighting an emotional or abstract 'fire.' Phrases like 'kibou wo tomosu' (to light hope) or 'kokoro ni hi wo tomosu' (to light a fire in one's heart) are common. You should also be comfortable with its various conjugations: tomoshimasu (polite), tomoshita (past), tomosanai (negative), and tomoseba (conditional). Another important aspect at this level is the passive form, 'tomosareru.' In descriptive writing, you might see 'Machi ni akari ga tomosareta' (Lights were lit across the town), which creates a passive, atmospheric effect. This verb is less about the mechanical action and more about the visual result and the feeling it evokes. It is often found in song lyrics and literature, so recognizing it will greatly help your reading comprehension of more artistic Japanese materials.

For B2 learners, 灯す (tomosu) represents a shift toward more sophisticated 'wago' (native Japanese words) that carry specific aesthetic weights. You should understand that 'tomosu' is often chosen over 'tsukeru' or 'tenka suru' to invoke the concept of 'akari'—a warm, comforting light. In B2-level literature or essays, 'tomosu' might be used to describe the onset of evening (yuugure) or the resilience of a small community ('a light lit in a remote village'). You should also pay attention to its use in compound expressions and its relationship with the kanji 灯 (tou/hi). The word is often paired with specific nouns to create vivid imagery, such as 'ishidourou wo tomosu' (lighting stone lanterns). At this level, you should also be aware of the register; 'tomosu' is slightly formal and quite literary. Using it in a casual conversation might be seen as 'joushoteki' (emotional/lyrical). Practice incorporating it into your writing when you want to emphasize the mood or the symbolic importance of the light being discussed, rather than just the fact that it is dark.

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At the C1 level, your mastery of 灯す (tomosu) should include an appreciation for its role in 'kogo' (classical) influences on modern Japanese and its frequent appearance in high-level rhetoric. You will find 'tomosu' used in complex metaphors regarding the human condition, such as 'inochi no hi wo tomosu' (kindling the flame of life) or 'shinjitsu no hikari wo tomosu' (lighting the light of truth). You should also be familiar with how 'tomosu' functions in the context of 'Keigo' (honorifics) and formal ceremonies. For instance, in a formal speech at a wedding or a memorial, 'tomosu' is used to lend a sense of gravity and beauty to the proceedings. Furthermore, you should understand the subtle differences between 'tomosu' and related verbs like 'tenzuru' (点ずる) or 'tomosu' (written as 💡 but read as tomosu), which may appear in specialized texts. Your ability to use 'tomosu' to create specific 'ma' (space/timing) and atmosphere in storytelling or public speaking is a hallmark of C1 proficiency. You should also be able to analyze how the use of 'tomosu' instead of a more modern term affects the tone of a piece of literature or a film's dialogue.

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At the C2 level, you should possess a near-native intuition for the 'shiki' (color/flavor) that 灯す (tomosu) brings to a sentence. This includes recognizing its use in archaic forms or specific dialects where it might retain older nuances. You should be able to discuss the historical evolution of the word and its kanji, and how the shift from oil and wick to electricity has narrowed but refined the usage of 'tomosu' to specific emotional and traditional contexts. In C2-level literary analysis, you might explore how an author uses the act of 'lighting' (tomosu) as a motif for knowledge, civilization, or individual agency against fate. You should also be adept at using 'tomosu' in your own creative or academic writing to evoke the 'mono no aware' (the pathos of things)—the transient beauty of a flickering flame. Your understanding should extend to the most obscure idioms and the way 'tomosu' interacts with Japanese aesthetics (like 'yugen' or 'wabi-sabi'). At this level, 'tomosu' is not just a verb; it is a tool for painting a specific psychological landscape, representing the intersection of human action and the elemental power of light.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

灯す em 30 segundos

灯す (tomosu) is a Japanese verb meaning to light a candle, lamp, or lantern, carrying a warm and traditional nuance.
It is a transitive verb, meaning you light 'something' (using the particle を), and it belongs to the Godan conjugation group.
While 'tsukeru' is for modern switches, 'tomosu' is for flames and atmospheric lighting, making it common in literature and songs.
Metaphorically, it is used to describe kindling hope, courage, or passion in the heart, symbolizing a positive emotional shift.

The Japanese verb 灯す (tomosu) is a poetic and evocative term primarily used to describe the act of lighting a flame or turning on a lamp. While the modern Japanese language frequently utilizes the more general verb つける (tsukeru) for turning on electric lights, 灯す carries a specific nuance of intentionality, warmth, and often a touch of traditional or literary flair. It is most commonly associated with candles (ろうそく), oil lamps (ランプ), and traditional lanterns (灯籠), where the source of light is a visible flame or a localized glow. In a metaphorical sense, 灯す is used to describe the act of 'kindling' something abstract, such as hope, a smile, or a spark of inspiration within someone's heart. This verb belongs to the Godan conjugation group and is transitive, meaning it requires a direct object—the thing being lit. When you use 灯す, you are not just flipping a switch; you are performing an action that brings light into a dark space, often creating a specific atmosphere or signaling the beginning of an event.

Etymology and Visuals: The kanji 灯 (tou/hi) represents a lamp or light, combining the 'fire' radical with a phonetic component. The verb tomosu itself is believed to share roots with words related to 'stopping' or 'fixing' light in a specific place.

暗い部屋で、彼女は静かにろうそくを灯す。(In the dark room, she quietly lights a candle.)

Grammar Point: As a transitive verb, it uses the particle を (wo). For example: 街灯を灯す (To light the streetlights).

心に希望の火を灯すことが大切だ。(It is important to light the fire of hope in one's heart.)

Register: This word is considered mid-to-high register. You will see it in novels, song lyrics, and formal speeches more often than in a conversation about turning on the kitchen light after coming home from work.

夕暮れ時、寺院の石灯籠に明かりが灯された。(At dusk, the lights were lit in the stone lanterns of the temple.)

In summary, 灯す is the verb of choice for creating atmosphere. Whether you are describing a romantic dinner, a religious ceremony, or a character finding inner strength, this word adds a layer of visual beauty that more functional verbs lack. It evokes the image of a small point of light fighting against a vast darkness, making it a favorite for writers and poets throughout Japanese history.

Using 灯す (tomosu) correctly involves understanding its transitive nature and its specific collocations. Because it is a transitive verb, the subject is the person or entity providing the spark, and the object is the source of light. Common objects include ろうそく (candle), ランプ (lamp), 提灯 (chochin/lantern), and 街灯 (streetlamp). In figurative language, the object is often 心 (heart), 希望 (hope), or 命 (life). When conjugating, remember it follows the standard pattern for -u verbs ending in -su (like hanasu). The polite form is 灯します (tomoshimasu), the past tense is 灯した (tomoshita), and the negative is 灯さない (tomosanai).

Example 1: Physical Light: マッチでランプに火を灯した。 (I lit the lamp with a match.) This highlights the physical act of ignition.

仏壇にろうそくを灯して祈った。(I lit a candle at the Buddhist altar and prayed.)

Example 2: Abstract/Metaphorical: 彼の言葉は私の心に勇気を灯してくれた。 (His words lit courage in my heart.) Here, the verb describes an emotional shift.

遠くに小さな明かりが灯っているのが見えた。(I could see a small light lit in the distance.)

Comparison with 'Tsukeru': While you can say 電気を灯す (light the electric light), it sounds very literary. In daily life, say 電気を付ける (denki wo tsukeru). Use 灯す for things that feel 'warm' or 'old-fashioned'.

祭りの夜、たくさんの提灯が灯された。(On the night of the festival, many lanterns were lit.)

In more advanced contexts, you might see 灯す combined with other verbs, though it usually stands alone to emphasize the singular act of illumination. Its usage in passive voice (灯される) is particularly common in descriptive prose to create a sense of atmosphere being established by an external force or by the environment itself as night falls.

You are most likely to encounter 灯す (tomosu) in contexts that prioritize aesthetics, emotion, or tradition. It is a staple of Japanese literature, from classic novels to modern light novels. In these settings, authors use it to set a scene—perhaps a character lighting a lamp in a quiet library or the first streetlights appearing in a snowy town. Music is another major domain for this word. J-pop and Enka lyrics frequently use 灯す to symbolize love, hope, or memory. For example, a singer might talk about 'lighting the lamp of love' (愛の灯を灯す).

Traditional Festivals (Matsuri): During Obon or local summer festivals, you will hear announcements or see signs about 灯す, particularly regarding lanterns (chochin) or floating candles (toro-nagashi).

「平和への願いを込めて、火を灯しましょう。」("Let us light the fire with a wish for peace.")

News and Documentaries: When reporting on memorials (like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial) or historic lighting ceremonies, news anchors will use 灯す to maintain a solemn and respectful tone.

古い洋館の窓に、ぽつんと明かりが灯った。(A single light was lit in the window of the old Western-style mansion.)

Anime and Manga: In fantasy or historical anime (like Demon Slayer or Natsume's Book of Friends), 灯す is used to describe supernatural flames or the lighting of traditional shrines.

魔法使いは杖の先に光を灯した。(The wizard lit a light at the tip of his staff.)

While you won't hear it at a convenience store when someone is checking the lights, you will hear it in any situation where the light being discussed has a deeper meaning or provides a specific visual impact. It is a word that bridges the gap between the mundane act of seeing and the spiritual or emotional act of illuminating.

The most common mistake learners make with 灯す (tomosu) is using it in place of the everyday verb つける (tsukeru). While technically 'lighting' a light, using 灯す for modern household appliances can sound unnaturally dramatic or even archaic. For instance, saying テレビを灯す (light the TV) is incorrect because a TV is an electronic device turned on by a switch, not a source of light that is 'kindled.' Similarly, using it for a microwave or a computer would be a mistake.

Mistake 1: Confusion with 'Tsukeru': Incorrect: 部屋の電気を灯してください。 (Please light the room's light.) Correct: 部屋の電気を付けてください。 (Please turn on the room's light.)

✘ スマホの画面を灯す (Lighting the smartphone screen) - Use 付ける instead.

Mistake 2: Intransitive vs. Transitive: Learners sometimes confuse 灯す (transitive: to light something) with the intransitive version 灯る (tomoru: to be lit). Use 灯す when there is an active agent, and 灯る when describing the state of the light itself.

✘ 街灯が灯した (The streetlights lit [something]) - Correct: 街灯が灯った (The streetlights were lit).

Mistake 3: Overuse in Casual Speech: Using 灯す in a casual conversation with friends about mundane tasks can sound like you are trying to be a poet. Stick to つける for daily chores.

✘ 懐中電灯を灯して！ (Light the flashlight!) - Better: 懐中電灯を付けて！ (Turn on the flashlight!)

Another subtle mistake is confusing 灯す with 点火する (tenka suru), which means 'to ignite' or 'to set fire to.' While 灯す implies creating light, 点火する is more technical and often used for engines or launching rockets. You wouldn't '灯す' a rocket engine. Understanding these boundaries ensures your Japanese sounds natural and contextually appropriate.

To master 灯す (tomosu), it is essential to compare it with other verbs related to light and fire. The most direct alternative is つける (tsukeru), which is the workhorse verb for turning things on. While 灯す focuses on the light itself, つける is about the action of starting a device or connection. Another related word is 焚く (taku), which means to burn fuel or light a large fire (like a campfire or incense). Unlike 灯す, 焚く emphasizes the consumption of fuel and the production of heat or smoke.

Comparison: 灯す vs. つける: 灯す: Poetic, warm, flame-based, atmospheric. つける: Functional, modern, switch-based, general.

ろうそくを灯す (Light a candle) vs. 電灯をつける (Turn on a light).

Comparison: 灯す vs. 焚く (taku): 灯す: Focuses on illumination. 焚く: Focuses on burning/fuel (e.g., wood for a fire, or rice in a cooker).

キャンプファイヤーを焚く (Build/light a campfire) - 灯す would not be used here as the fire is too large.

Comparison: 灯す vs. 照らす (terasu): 灯す is the act of starting the light. 照らす is the act of the light shining upon an object. Example: 懐中電灯で足元を照らす (Shine a flashlight on your feet).

暗闇を照らす (To illuminate the darkness) - This describes the effect of the light.

Finally, consider 輝かせる (kagayakaseru - to make something shine). This is often used for eyes or jewelry. While 灯す creates a new light source, 輝かせる emphasizes the brilliance or reflection of an existing thing. By choosing the right word from this set, you can describe any lighting scenario with precision.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The kanji for 'tomosu' (灯) is a simplified version of '燈'. The left side is 'fire' (火) and the right side originally depicted a lamp stand. This visual representation has remained consistent for over a thousand years.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /tɒ.moʊ.suː/

US /toʊ.moʊ.suː/

In Japanese, pitch accent is important. For 'tomosu', the pitch is typically Low-High-High (Heiban style), meaning the 'to' is lower than 'mosu'.

Rima com

灯る (tomoru) 残す (nokosu) 及ぼす (oyobosu) 通す (toosu) 壊す (kowasu) 直す (naosu) 回す (mawasu) 汚す (yogosu)

Erros comuns

Pronouncing 'su' too strongly like 'soo'. In Japanese, the 'u' is often whispered or very short.
Stress-accenting the first syllable like English 'TO-mo-su'. Keep the pitch flat or rising.
Confusing the 'o' sound with 'ou' (long o). It is a short, crisp 'o'.
Pronouncing the 't' with too much air (aspiration). Keep it light.
Confusing it with 'tomos' (Spanish) or other similar-sounding foreign words.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

The kanji is simple, but the verb is often found in literary contexts which might be harder for beginners.

Escrita 3/5

Conjugating Godan verbs ending in -su is a standard intermediate skill.

Expressão oral 4/5

Using it correctly instead of 'tsukeru' requires a good feel for nuance and register.

Audição 3/5

Easily recognized in songs and stories once you know the 'tomosu/tomoru' pair.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

火 (hi) - Fire 光 (hikari) - Light 付ける (tsukeru) - To turn on 明るい (akarui) - Bright ろうそく (rousoku) - Candle

Aprenda a seguir

灯る (tomoru) - To be lit 照らす (terasu) - To illuminate 輝く (kagayaku) - To shine 消す (kesu) - To extinguish 焚く (taku) - To burn/cook

Avançado

点ずる (tenzuru) - To light (formal) 燐寸 (matchi) - Match (kanji) 情緒 (joucho) - Emotion/Atmosphere 幻想的 (gensouteki) - Magical/Fantastical

Gramática essencial

Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs

灯す (Transitive: I light it) vs. 灯る (Intransitive: It is lit).

Godan Verb Conjugation (-su ending)

灯す -> 灯します、灯した、灯さない、灯せば。

Using を with Transitive Verbs

ろうそくを灯す (Light a candle).

Passive Voice for Atmosphere

明かりが灯される (Lights are lit - often used to describe scenery).

Te-form for State (with Intransitive)

明かりが灯っている (A light is glowing/lit).

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Exemplos por nível

ろうそくを灯します。

I light a candle.

Simple transitive verb usage: [Object] + を + 灯す.

ランプを灯してください。

Please light the lamp.

Request form using 〜てください.

お母さんは火を灯しました。

Mother lit the fire.

Past tense polite form: 灯しました.

小さい明かりを灯す。

To light a small light.

Dictionary form used for general statements.

ケーキに火を灯す。

Light the candles on the cake.

The particle に indicates the location where the light is placed.

ランタンを灯しましょう。

Let's light the lantern.

Volitional form: 〜ましょう (Let's).

暗いから、灯します。

It's dark, so I'll light it.

Using から to show reason.

きれいに灯した。

I lit it beautifully.

Adverbial use of きれいに with the past tense.

庭の提灯を灯しました。

I lit the lanterns in the garden.

提灯 (chochin) is a common object for this verb.

暗くなってから、火を灯す。

I light the fire after it gets dark.

〜てから (after doing) construction.

マッチでろうそくを灯した。

I lit the candle with a match.

で marks the tool/instrument (match).

窓に明かりを灯しましょうか。

Shall I light a lamp in the window?

〜ましょうか (Shall I/we) offer.

彼は静かにランプを灯した。

He quietly lit the lamp.

Quietly (静かに) adds to the atmospheric nuance of the verb.

ろうそくを灯さないでください。

Please do not light the candle.

Negative request: 〜ないでください.

明かりを灯すと、部屋が明るくなった。

When I lit the light, the room became bright.

〜と (when/whenever) showing immediate consequence.

神社で火を灯す祭りがある。

There is a festival where they light fires at the shrine.

Relative clause describing the festival.

心に希望の火を灯すことが大切です。

It is important to light the fire of hope in one's heart.

Metaphorical usage of 'lighting a fire'.

夕暮れに、街灯が次々と灯された。

At dusk, streetlights were lit one after another.

Passive form (灯された) used for scenes happening to objects.

彼女の笑顔は、周りの人の心に明かりを灯す。

Her smile lights a lamp in the hearts of those around her.

Abstract usage describing influence on others.

古い本を読むために、オイルランプを灯した。

I lit an oil lamp to read an old book.

〜ために (in order to) expressing purpose.

灯されたばかりの提灯が揺れている。

The lanterns that were just lit are swaying.

〜たばかり (just finished doing) modifying a noun.

誰かがどこかで明かりを灯している。

Someone is lighting a light somewhere.

Continuous form showing an ongoing or state-like action.

祭りの始まりを告げるために、大きな火を灯す。

To signal the start of the festival, they light a large fire.

Complex purpose clause.

このろうそくを灯せば、道が見えるはずだ。

If you light this candle, you should be able to see the way.

Conditional form (灯せば) + expectation (はずだ).

そのニュースは、絶望していた人々に一筋の光を灯した。

The news lit a ray of light for the people who were in despair.

Figurative use of 'lighting a ray of light'.

石灯籠に火を灯すと、寺の境内は幻想的な雰囲気に包まれた。

When the stone lanterns were lit, the temple grounds were wrapped in a magical atmosphere.

Using 灯す to describe the creation of an 'atmosphere' (fun'iki).

彼は亡き友を偲んで、一本のろうそくを灯し続けた。

He continued to light a single candle in memory of his late friend.

Compound verb 〜し続ける (continue to do).

村人たちは、帰らぬ人を待つために海辺で火を灯した。

The villagers lit fires on the beach to wait for those who had not returned.

Describing a communal, purposeful act of lighting.

暗闇の中にぽつんと灯された明かりが、旅人の心を癒した。

The light lit solitarily in the darkness healed the traveler's heart.

Passive participle (灯された) modifying a noun.

新しい時代の幕開けを祝って、聖火が灯された。

To celebrate the dawn of a new era, the sacred flame was lit.

Formal/Ceremonial context (seika = sacred flame).

彼は自分の情熱を灯し続けることができなかった。

He was unable to keep the flame of his own passion lit.

Metaphorical use of passion (jounetsu) as the object.

夕暮れの空に、一番星が明かりを灯したかのように輝いた。

In the evening sky, the first star shone as if it had lit a lamp.

Simile using 〜かのように.

作家は言葉を通じて、読者の心に真実の灯を灯そうと試みた。

The author attempted to light the lamp of truth in the readers' hearts through words.

Volitional form + と試みた (attempted to).

近代化の波が押し寄せる中、その古い宿場町だけは依然として提灯を灯し続けていた。

Amidst the surging waves of modernization, only that old post town continued to light its lanterns as before.

Contrastive context highlighting tradition.

宗教的な儀式において、火を灯す行為は浄化と再生を象徴している。

In religious rituals, the act of lighting a fire symbolizes purification and rebirth.

Academic/Formal register.

彼女の献身的な活動は、地域社会に新たな希望の灯を灯す結果となった。

Her dedicated activities resulted in lighting a new lamp of hope in the local community.

〜結果となった (resulted in) describing long-term impact.

吹雪の中でようやく見つけた山小屋の窓に、微かな明かりが灯されていた。

In the window of the mountain hut finally found amidst the blizzard, a faint light was lit.

Descriptive passive-progressive state (灯されていた).

伝統を守る職人たちは、今もなお工房で変わらぬ情熱を灯し続けている。

The craftsmen protecting tradition still keep the same passion lit in their workshops.

Using 'passion' as an object in a formal context.

その演説は、沈黙していた群衆の心に反撃の火を灯した。

That speech lit the fire of counterattack in the hearts of the silent crowd.

Rhetorical/Dramatic usage.

静寂に包まれた夜の森で、彼は一人、キャンプの灯を灯して思索に耽った。

In the silent night forest, he lit a camp light alone and indulged in meditation.

Literary description of solitude.

文明の黎明期において、人類が火を灯す術を習得したことは、進化の決定的な転換点であった。

In the dawn of civilization, humanity's mastery of the art of lighting fire was a decisive turning point in evolution.

High-level academic/historical discourse.

詩人は、都会の喧騒の中に孤独という名の灯を灯し、現代社会の虚無を照らし出した。

The poet lit a lamp named solitude amidst the city's bustle, illuminating the void of modern society.

Abstract poetic metaphor with multiple layers.

数世紀にわたり絶えることなく灯され続けてきた「不滅の法灯」は、信仰の象徴である。

The 'Eternal Buddhist Light,' which has been kept lit without ceasing for centuries, is a symbol of faith.

Describing a continuous historical state (灯され続けてきた).

彼の沈着冷静な態度は、混乱を極める現場に安堵の明かりを灯す役割を果たした。

His calm and composed demeanor played the role of lighting a lamp of relief in the extremely chaotic scene.

Using 'role' (yakuwari) with the metaphorical verb.

権力への抵抗を象徴するかのように、名もなき人々が窓辺に一斉に灯を灯した。

As if to symbolize resistance to power, nameless people lit lamps at their windows all at once.

Political/Literary symbolism.

科学の進歩は、未知の領域に知識という名の光を灯し、人類の地平を広げてきた。

The progress of science has lit the light of knowledge in unknown realms, expanding the horizons of humanity.

Metaphorical use in a progress-oriented context.

古の賢者が灯した知恵の火は、時代を超えて現代の我々を導いている。

The fire of wisdom lit by ancient sages transcends time and guides us in the modern age.

Subjective historical influence.

自己犠牲を厭わぬ彼の行為は、人々の倫理観に一石を投じ、良心の灯を灯させた。

His act of self-sacrifice challenged people's ethics and caused the lamp of conscience to be lit.

Causative form (灯させた) in a complex ethical discussion.

Colocações comuns

ろうそくを灯す

希望を灯す

ランプを灯す

提灯を灯す

明かりを灯す

火を灯す

街灯を灯す

心に灯す

窓に灯す

一筋の光を灯す

Frases Comuns

明かりを灯す

— To light a light. Used generally for bringing illumination to a dark place.

彼は部屋の隅に明かりを灯した。

心に火を灯す

— To ignite passion or inspiration in someone's heart. A very common motivational phrase.

先生の言葉が私の心に火を灯した。

希望の灯を灯す

— To kindle hope. Used in difficult situations to describe finding or providing encouragement.

ボランティア活動は被災地に希望の灯を灯した。

ろうそくに火を灯す

— To light a candle. The most literal and basic use of the verb.

静かにろうそくに火を灯しましょう。

提灯を灯す

— To light a Japanese lantern. Often associated with festivals or traditional inns.

旅館の入り口に提灯が灯されている。

命の灯を灯す

— To keep the flame of life burning. Used in medical or philosophical contexts.

医師たちは必死に彼の命の灯を灯そうとした。

歴史に光を灯す

— To shed light on history. Used when a new discovery makes historical facts clear.

新発見の資料が、空白の歴史に光を灯した。

足元に灯を灯す

— To light one's path. Can be literal (holding a lamp) or metaphorical (providing guidance).

先人の知恵が、私たちの足元に灯を灯してくれる。

一晩中灯す

— To keep a light lit all night long. Often implies waiting or guarding.

灯台は一晩中、明かりを灯し続けている。

平和の灯を灯す

— To light the flame of peace. Common in memorial services or international events.

世界各地で平和の灯を灯すセレモニーが行われた。

Frequentemente confundido com

灯す vs 付ける (tsukeru)

Most common confusion. 'Tsukeru' is for general use/switches; 'tomosu' is for flames/atmosphere.

灯す vs 灯る (tomoru)

The intransitive version. 'Tomosu' is what YOU do; 'tomoru' is what the light IS doing.

灯す vs 焚く (taku)

'Taku' is for burning fuel (firewood, rice); 'tomosu' is for creating light.

Expressões idiomáticas

"心に灯を灯す"

— To inspire someone or give them hope. Similar to 'lighting a spark.'

彼女の歌声は多くの人の心に灯を灯した。

Poetic

"明かりを灯す"

— To bring clarity or joy to a situation.

赤ちゃんの誕生が家族に明かりを灯した。

Neutral

"命の灯を灯す"

— To survive or to maintain one's vitality against the odds.

厳しい冬の間、彼は希望だけで命の灯を灯し続けた。

Literary

"知恵の灯を灯す"

— To educate or enlighten someone.

教育こそが子供たちの未来に知恵の灯を灯す。

Formal

"不滅の灯を灯す"

— To create something that will last forever (like a legacy).

その芸術家は、作品を通じて不滅の灯を灯した。

Academic

"暗闇に灯を灯す"

— To do something helpful in a dire situation.

彼の寄付は、貧困にあえぐ村に灯を灯した。

Neutral

"愛の灯を灯す"

— To start a romantic relationship or feel love.

二人の間に愛の灯が灯った。

Poetic

"真実の灯を灯す"

— To reveal the truth in a complicated matter.

記者の調査が事件の真実の灯を灯した。

Journalistic

"道標に灯を灯す"

— To provide guidance for the future.

新しいリーダーは国の道標に灯を灯した。

Formal

"情熱の火を灯す"

— To make someone feel passionate about a goal.

コーチの激しい言葉が選手たちの情熱の火を灯した。

Sports/Motivational

Fácil de confundir

灯す vs 点火 (tenka)

Both involve starting a fire.

Tenka is technical/mechanical (engines, stoves); Tomosu is atmospheric/poetic (lamps, candles).

エンジンの点火 (Engine ignition).

灯す vs 照らす (terasu)

Both relate to light and seeing in the dark.

Tomosu is the act of starting the light; Terasu is the act of the light shining on something.

懐中電灯で照らす (Shine with a flashlight).

灯す vs 燃やす (moyasu)

Both involve fire.

Moyasu is to burn something to destroy it or create heat; Tomosu is to light something to create light.

ゴミを燃やす (Burn trash).

灯す vs 灯り (akari)

The noun form and the verb sound similar.

Akari is the noun (the light itself); Tomosu is the verb (the act of lighting).

明かりを灯す (Light a light).

灯す vs 点ずる (tenzuru)

Both mean 'to light'.

Tenzuru is extremely formal or archaic; Tomosu is the standard poetic/literary word.

仏前に灯を点ずる (Light a lamp before the Buddha).

Padrões de frases

[Object] を灯します。

ランプを灯します。

[Tool] で [Object] を灯す。

マッチでろうそくを灯す。

[Location] に [Object] を灯す。

心に希望を灯す。

[Object] が灯される。

提灯が灯される。

[Object] を灯し続ける。

情熱を灯し続ける。

[Object] を灯そうと [Action]。

真実を灯そうと努力する。

[Noun] という名の [Object] を灯す。

孤独という名の灯を灯す。

General

ぽつんと [Object] を灯す。

ぽつんと明かりを灯す。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

灯 (tomoshibi) - A light, a flame.

灯台 (toudai) - Lighthouse.

街灯 (gaitou) - Streetlight.

電灯 (dentou) - Electric light.

Verbos

灯る (tomoru) - To be lit (intransitive).

点火する (tenka suru) - To ignite.

点ずる (tenzuru) - To light (formal/archaic).

Adjetivos

明るい (akarui) - Bright.

仄暗い (honogurai) - Dimly lit.

Relacionado

火 (hi) - Fire.

光 (hikari) - Light.

提灯 (chochin) - Lantern.

ろうそく (rousoku) - Candle.

油 (abura) - Oil (for lamps).

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Como usar

frequency

Common in written Japanese and lyrics; medium frequency in daily spoken Japanese.

Erros comuns

Using 'tomosu' for a computer screen. → Konpyuuta no gamen wo tsukeru.
Screens are electronic devices with switches, not lamps that are kindled. Use 'tsukeru'.
Confusing 'tomosu' with 'tomoru'. → Akari wo tomosu (I light the lamp); Akari ga tomoru (The lamp is lit).
Tomosu is transitive (needs an agent); Tomoru is intransitive (describes the state).
Using 'tomosu' for a large bonfire. → Takibi wo taku.
'Tomosu' is for small, focused lights. For large fires intended for heat, 'taku' is better.
Thinking 'tomosu' is only for old things. → Shukusai no irumineishon wo tomosu.
While traditional, it can be used for modern decorative lights (like Christmas lights) if the intent is atmospheric.
Saying 'hi wo tomosu' for lighting a cigarette. → Tabako ni hi wo tsukeru.
Cigarettes don't 'illuminate' a space; they just burn. Use 'hi wo tsukeru'.

Dicas

Choose Atmosphere

Use 'tomosu' when you want to emphasize the warmth and beauty of the light. It's perfect for romantic or nostalgic contexts.

Remember the Particle

Always use 'wo' (を) with 'tomosu' because it is a transitive verb. You are the one doing the lighting.

Traditional Pairs

Learn it alongside words like 'chochin' (lantern) and 'rousoku' (candle). These are its best friends!

Internal Light

Don't be afraid to use it for emotions. Lighting 'hope' or 'passion' is a very natural way to use this word in Japanese.

Literary Flair

If you are writing a story, use 'tomosu' to describe the evening setting. It instantly makes your prose sound more professional.

Festival Context

When you visit a Japanese festival, look for the word on signs or listen for it in announcements. It's a key festival word.

Soft 'Su'

Keep the final 'u' in 'tomosu' very short. It should almost sound like 'tomos' in quick speech.

Tomosu vs. Taku

Remember: 'tomosu' is for light; 'taku' is for heat/fuel. You light a lamp (tomosu) but you burn a fire for warmth (taku).

Tomosu vs. Tomoru

If the light is already on and you're just describing it, use 'tomoru' or 'tomotte iru'. Use 'tomosu' for the moment of ignition.

Ceremonial Tone

In formal speeches, 'tomosu' adds a layer of dignity that 'tsukeru' lacks. Use it for 'lighting the way forward' for a company or group.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'TO-Morrow's SUN'. When you light a lamp (tomosu), you are bringing a little bit of tomorrow's sun into the dark night.

Associação visual

Imagine a person in a traditional kimono carefully lighting a paper lantern (chochin) with a match. The warm orange glow is the essence of 'tomosu'.

Word Web

Fire Candle Lantern Hope Warmth Night Atmosphere Tradition

Desafio

Try to write three sentences about a winter evening using 'tomosu' to describe the lighting of candles or streetlights. Focus on the feeling of the light.

Origem da palavra

The word 'tomosu' comes from Old Japanese. It is believed to be derived from the root 'tomo', which is related to 'stopping' or 'fixing' (as in fixing a flame to a wick). Over centuries, it evolved from describing a physical flame to encompassing broader meanings of illumination.

Significado original: To fix a flame to a wick or a torch.

Japonic / Native Japanese (Wago).

Contexto cultural

Be respectful when using this word in religious contexts (shrines/temples). It is a solemn action.

English speakers often use 'light' or 'kindle.' 'Tomosu' is closer to 'kindle' in its poetic weight, whereas 'tsukeru' is simply 'turn on.'

The 'Eternal Flame' at various peace memorials in Japan. Song lyrics by artists like Miyuki Nakajima or Hikaru Utada. Traditional 'Gion Matsuri' lantern-lighting ceremonies.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Traditional Festivals

提灯を灯す (Light lanterns)
灯籠を灯す (Light floating lanterns)
祭りの火を灯す (Light the festival fire)
一斉に灯される (Lit all at once)

Literature/Stories

ランプを灯す (Light a lamp)
窓に明かりを灯す (Light a window)
静かに灯した (Quietly lit)
微かな光を灯す (Light a faint light)

Emotional/Metaphorical

希望を灯す (Light hope)
心に火を灯す (Kindle the heart)
勇気を灯す (Light courage)
愛の灯を灯す (Light the lamp of love)

Religious/Ceremonial

仏壇に灯を灯す (Light a light at the altar)
聖火を灯す (Light the sacred flame)
祈りを込めて灯す (Light with a prayer)
不滅の法灯を灯す (Light the eternal flame)

Night Scenes

街灯を灯す (Light streetlights)
足元を灯す (Light the way)
闇に灯を灯す (Light in the darkness)
遠くに灯された明かり (A light lit far away)

Iniciadores de conversa

"「誕生日のケーキに、ろうそくを何本灯しますか？」 (How many candles do you light on your birthday cake?)"

"「暗い夜道で、何を使って明かりを灯しますか？」 (What do you use to light your way on a dark night road?)"

"「あなたの心に希望を灯してくれるものは何ですか？」 (What is something that lights hope in your heart?)"

"「日本の祭りで提灯を灯したことがありますか？」 (Have you ever lit a lantern at a Japanese festival?)"

"「キャンプの時、どうやって火を灯しますか？」 (How do you light a fire when camping?)"

Temas para diário

「心に火を灯す」という言葉から、あなたが最近感動したことについて書いてください。 (Write about something that moved you recently, using the phrase 'lighting a fire in the heart.')

もし電気が使えなくなったら、どのように明かりを灯して過ごしますか？ (If electricity became unavailable, how would you light your surroundings and spend your time?)

子供の頃、誕生日のろうそくを灯した時の思い出を詳しく描写してください。 (Describe in detail your memory of lighting birthday candles as a child.)

暗闇の中に一つの明かりが灯っている光景を想像して、その時の気持ちを書いてください。 (Imagine a scene with a single light lit in the darkness and write about your feelings then.)

誰かのために「希望の灯を灯す」ような行動をしたことがありますか？ (Have you ever acted in a way that 'lit a lamp of hope' for someone else?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Technically, you can use it metaphorically or if the LED is designed to look like a candle or lantern. However, in daily life, 'tsukeru' is much more natural for LEDs. Use 'tomosu' only if you want to emphasize the warm, candle-like quality of the light.

Yes, very often! 'Tomosareru' is a standard way to describe a scene where lights are appearing, such as 'The city lights were lit.' It sounds more descriptive and atmospheric than just saying the lights 'came on.'

Since it is a Godan verb ending in -su, the negative form is 'tomosanai' (informal) or 'tomoshimasen' (formal). For example, 'rousoku wo tomosanai' (I don't light the candle).

'Hi wo tsukeru' is the general phrase for 'setting fire to something' or 'lighting a fire.' 'Tomosu' is more specific to lighting a source of illumination like a lamp. You 'hi wo tsukeru' to a cigarette, but you 'tomosu' a lantern.

Yes! It is a common poetic expression: 'kao ni emi wo tomosu' (to light a smile on one's face). It implies the smile is like a warm light that brightens the person's appearance.

Yes, it is a Joyo kanji (learned in elementary school) and is very common in names, places, and everyday vocabulary related to light.

It means 'to light hope.' It's a metaphorical expression used when someone or something provides inspiration or encouragement during a dark or difficult time.

Yes, it is transitive. You need an object (marked by 'wo'). The intransitive version is 'tomoru' (marked by 'ga').

It sounds a bit strange and poetic. For a flashlight (kaichu-dentou), 'tsukeru' is the standard choice. 'Tomosu' would only be used if the flashlight was being used in a very symbolic or dramatic way in a story.

You use the compound verb 'tomoshinaosu' (灯し直す). For example: 'Kie-kaketa hi wo tomoshinaosu' (Relight the fire that was about to go out).

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