Translation and Meaning of: 生かす - ikasu

If you've ever wondered how the Japanese express the idea of "reviving" or "making the most of" something, the word 生かす (いかす) is the key. In this article, we will explore its etymology, everyday usage, and even curiosities about its kanji, which carries a deep meaning of life and renewal. Here at Suki Nihongo, you will also find practical examples to include in your Anki and master this versatile expression. Let's uncover everything from its origin to how it appears in daily dialogues.

The etymology and the kanji of 生かす

The verb 生かす is formed by the kanji 生 (いき), which means "life" or "birth," combined with the verbal suffix かす. This structure already reveals a lot: it refers to giving life to something, whether literally (like resurrecting) or metaphorically (making use of a resource). The pictogram of 生 shows a plant sprouting from the earth, symbolizing growth and vitality — something that resonates in the use of the word.

Interestingly, 生かす is not an ancient term, but its root is in classical Japanese, where 生く (iku) meant "to live." Over time, it gained the transitive form we know today. Unlike 生き返る (to come back to life), here the action is directed: you "revive" or "activate" something external, like skills, ingredients, or even opportunities.

How 生かす is used in everyday life

In Japan, 生かす appears in surprising contexts. A chef might say: 素材の味を生かす ("to make the most of the flavor of the ingredients"), while a teacher comments: 経験を生かして仕事する ("to use experience in the job"). The word has one foot in the kitchen and the other in the office, always with the idea of extracting the most from something.

It is also common in advice. Imagine a friend saying: 時間を生かせ！ ("Make the most of your time!"). It sounds more urgent than a simple "use," almost like a call to revive lost hours. This nuance causes 生かす to be frequently searched on Google along with motivational phrases or productivity tips.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

To reinforce 生かす, associate the kanji 生 with scenes of renewal: a plant rebirthing or a dish that "comes to life" with seasonings. A technique that worked for me was to create flashcards with images of transformation — like an old bread turning into toast (yes, even that is 生かす!).

A curiosity? In Kansai, you can hear いかす as slang for "cool," but beware: it’s a colloquial use and different from the standard verb. And if you're looking for a pun, try: 生かす人生 (ikasu jinsei) — "a life that makes the most of it." Sounds almost like a modern samurai motto, don’t you think?

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 生かす

• 生かす - Infinitive form
• 生かします - Present polite form
• 生かしています - Present polite continuous form
• 生かせます - Polite potential form
• 生かさせる - causative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 生き返らせる (Ikikaeraseru) - Bring back to life; resurrect.
• 活用する (Katsuyou suru) - Use practically; apply.
• 活かす (Ikasu) - Take advantage; bring something to life; make good use.
• 生かしめる (Ikashi meru) - Cause life; make something come to life.
• 生命を与える (Seimei o ataeru) - Give life; grant existence.