表す

• Reading: あらわす
• Romaji: arawasu
• Kanji breakdown: 表 (hyō/arawa) — to express, surface, table
• Pronunciation: /a.ɾa.wa.sɯ/

Meaning

To represent; to express; to signify. Used for symbols, words, or actions that convey meaning.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugated with the す row. Used when something represents or symbolizes a concept. Different from 現す (to reveal/appear) though both read あらわす. Often used to discuss what symbols, colors, or gestures mean. Common in academic and cultural discussions.

Examples

1. この記号は何を表していますか。 What does this symbol represent?
2. 赤い色は日本では幸運を表す。 The color red represents good luck in Japan.
3. 彼女は気持ちを言葉で表すのが上手だ。 She's good at expressing her feelings in words.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, culture, language

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 表 combines 衣 (clothing) and an element suggesting the outer surface, meaning to make visible on the outside — hence to express or represent.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal