Meaning

Primary

To Hit Something

Alternatives

To Strike Something, To Type

Word Type

transitive verb, godan verb

Explanation

This word consists of kanji with hiragana attached. Because the hiragana ends with an sound, you know this word is a verb. The kanji itself means hit so the vocab is to hit something or to strike something. It can also mean to type.

You can use this word to describe bumping a part of your body on something, hitting a ball or a nail, or typing on a keyboard. It can also describe hitting a person, but that use is less common and sounds a bit literary.

Reading

うつ
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This word uses the kun'yomi reading, which you haven't learned yet, but never fear! A mnemonic is here:

If you’re planning to hit an uni (), you’re going to need a special bat or hammer. I don’t know why you’d want to hit a sea urchin, but make sure you have the right equipment if you do, because those things are spiky!

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 手を打つ

    to strike a deal, to take measures

    ボールを打つ

    to hit a ball

    心を打つ

    to touch one's heart

Context Sentences

ホームランを打つ名人になりたい。

I want to be an expert at hitting home runs.

ぼくの先生は、キーボードを打つのがはやい。

My teacher is quick with a keyboard.

今のうちに手を打っておこう。

Let's take action before it's too late.

Kanji Composition