Meaning

Primary

To Turn Something

Alternatives

To Rotate Something, To Spin Something

Word Type

transitive verb, godan verb

Explanation

You've probably seen the word 回る, which means "to revolve." This word is similar, except for you're doing the turning/rotating action on something else. You can simply say to turn something or to rotate something when answering this question, but be sure to think of yourself actually turning/rotating something. Remember this by using the on the end. You've taken your friend Sue and put her on a stick. You're rotating her over a fire on a spit because you're a sick cannibal.

Reading

まわす
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

The reading is the same as the word 回る (まわ). So long as you know that level 5 word, you'll be able to read this one as well. Use both of these words together to remember their readings.

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 手を回す

    to take measures behind the scenes

    首を回す

    to turn one's neck

    ハンドルを回す

    to turn the handle

Context Sentences

ノックの音の後、ドアノブを回す音がした。

After the sound of the knock, there was a sound of the doorknob being turned.

ぼくの兄はピザの生地を回す天才です。

My brother is a genius at spinning pizza dough.

もっとサーモンのおすしを回して下さい。

Please pass around more salmon sushi.

Kanji Composition