傘を差す
kasa o sasu
The phrase "put up an umbrella" in Japanese is 傘を差す (kasa o sasu).
This phrase is used to describe the action of opening an umbrella and holding it over oneself to provide protection from the rain or the sun.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of 傘 (kasa), meaning "umbrella" and the verb 差す (sasu), which is the specific verb used for the action of holding up or opening an umbrella.
Which one should you use?
While 傘を差す focuses on the act of using the umbrella for protection, the phrase 傘を広げる focuses specifically on the physical act of unfolding or spreading the umbrella's canopy.
How do you pronounce it?
kasa o sasu
Did you know?
- The verb 差す (sasu) is used not just for umbrellas but also for applying makeup, such as 紅を差す (beni o sasu) when applying red rouge to the lips.
- The verb 差す (sasu) can also mean 'to stab' or 'to insert', reflecting the physical motion of pushing the center pole of the umbrella upward.
- When sharing an umbrella, the person holding it typically tilts it toward their companion, often letting their own shoulder get wet as a selfless gesture.
Examples in context
- 今日は雨だから、傘をさしてくださいね。Since it's raining today, please put up the umbrella, okay?
- 雨が降ってきたので、傘を差す。Ame ga futtekita node, kasa o sasu.Since it started raining, I will put up an umbrella.
