Wash

あら(う) (arau)

JLPT N4

Interesting Fact

Japan is famous for cleanliness. From removing shoes indoors to public handwashing stations at shrines, the idea behind 洗 is deeply connected to Japanese culture.

Memory Trick

Imagine washing your hands with soap under running water. That cleaning action helps you remember 洗 means 'wash.'

Readings

Onyomi: セン (sen)

Kunyomi: あら(う) (arau)

Example Words

洗う
あらう (arau)
To wash
洗濯
せんたく (sentaku)
Laundry
洗面所
せんめんじょ (senmenjo)
Washroom
手洗い
てあらい (tearai)
Handwashing

Example Sentence

食事の 前に 手を 洗います。

しょくじの まえに てを あらいます。

shokuji no mae ni te o araimasu

I wash my hands before eating.

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