Meaning

Primary

To Point At

Alternative

To Point To

Word Type

transitive verb, godan verb

Explanation

When you want to use your finger to explain the distinction between more than one thing, you need to point at it. Otherwise the person you're talking to won't be able to tell which one you're talking about.

In general, 指差す specifically means using one’s index finger to physically point at something or someone.

Reading

ゆびさす
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

The readings for this word are both kun'yomi readings. You've learned both of these readings by now so you should be able to read this on your own.

Context

Context Sentences

日本では、人を指差すのは失礼なんだよ。

In Japan, it’s rude to point at people.

おばさんは少女を指差しながら、「アイツは本当に気が強くてなぁ」と言い、ニコリと笑った。

Pointing at the young girl, the older woman said, "She's really strong-willed, you know," and grinned.

今、忙しい。名探偵が犯人を指差すときにビシッと決まる、カッコいい台詞を考えてるんだ。

Right now, I'm busy. I'm trying to come up with a cool line that a great detective would say when pointing out the culprit.

Kanji Composition