Translation and Meaning of: 散らかす - chirakasu

If you are learning Japanese, you have probably come across the word 散らかす (ちらかす, chirakasu). It frequently appears in everyday situations and can be a bit confusing at first. In this article, we will explore its meaning, practical use, and even some tips to memorize it more easily. Additionally, we will see how this word is perceived in Japanese culture and in what contexts it appears.

The word 散らかす (chirakasu) means "to scatter" or "to make messy" in English.

散らかす is a Japanese verb that means "to scatter", "to make a mess" or "to disorganize". It is used when someone leaves objects spread out in a disorderly manner, such as clothes, books, or toys. For example, if a child leaves their toys on the floor, a parent might say: おもちゃを散らかさないで (omocha o chirakasanai de) – "Don't spread out the toys!".

It is worth noting that 散らかす has a slightly negative tone, as it indicates carelessness or lack of attention. If you want to say that something is simply "scattered" without that connotation, you can use words like 広がる (hirogaru) or 散らばる (chirabaru).

How to use 散らかす in everyday life?

This verb frequently appears in domestic situations, especially when someone complains about the mess. A common example is 部屋を散らかす (heya o chirakasu), which means "to mess up the room." Another use is in notices, like on signs asking not to leave trash scattered: ゴミを散らかさないでください (gomi o chirakasanai de kudasai).

Interestingly, 散らかす can also be used in a more abstract way. For example, in discussions about mental disorganization or information overload, someone might say: 頭の中が散らかっている (atama no naka ga chirakatte iru) – "My mind is cluttered."

Tips for memorizing 散らかす

One way to this verb is to observe its kanji: 散 (san) means "to scatter" or "to dissipate," while らかす (rakasu) reinforces the idea of causing disorder. Associating the image of something scattered (like leaves in the wind) can help fix the meaning.

Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as: 本を散らかした (hon o chirakashita) – "I scattered the books". Repeating it out loud and creating mental situations where you would use the word also helps with memorization.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 散らかす

• 散らかす - Dictionary Form
• 散らかさない - negative
• 散らかせる - potential
• 散らかした - past
• 散らかさせられる - potential ive

Synonyms and similar words

• 乱す (midasu) - Disorganize, disturb
• 乱雑にする (ranzatsu ni suru) - Disorganize, make messy (more focused on confusion and disorder)
• 散らかし回る (chirakashimawaru) - Spread mess around, leave things disorderly in different places.