正す

• Reading: ただす
• Romaji: tadasu
• Kanji breakdown: 正 (sei/tada) — correct, proper, right
• Pronunciation: /ta.da.sɯ/

Meaning

To correct; to set right; to reform; to straighten; to inquire formally.

A Group 1 (godan) verb with multiple senses unified by the idea of bringing something into a correct or proper state. It can mean to correct an error, to straighten one's posture, to reform one's conduct, or to formally inquire into the truth of a matter. The formality of the last sense (to inquire or question) makes it common in bureaucratic, legal, and classical literary contexts.

Examples

1. 上司は部下の誤った報告書を即座に正し、再提出を命じた。 The supervisor immediately corrected a subordinate's erroneous report and ordered it to be resubmitted.
2. 彼は面接官の前で姿勢を正し、はっきりとした声で自己紹介した。 He straightened his posture in front of the interviewer and introduced himself in a clear, confident voice.
3. 委員会は事実関係を正すべく、関係者全員から証言を集めた。 The committee gathered testimony from all parties involved in order to establish the facts of the matter.

Usage Guide

Context: workplace, formal speech, law, daily life

Tone: authoritative

Origin & History

From classical Japanese ただす. The kanji 正 depicts a foot moving toward a line, conveying the idea of walking a straight and proper path. The verb derives from this root sense of correctness and propriety.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Present

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal