除く

• Reading: のぞく
• Romaji: nozoku
• Kanji breakdown: 除 (jo/nozo) — to remove, to exclude
• Pronunciation: /no.zo.kɯ/

Meaning

To remove; to exclude; to eliminate. Used for taking away unwanted elements or making exceptions.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugated with the く row. Common in both physical removal and abstract exclusion. Often seen in formal contexts like contracts or rules where exceptions are stated. The form ～を除いて means 'except for' or 'excluding.'

Examples

1. 日曜日を除いて毎日営業しています。 We're open every day except Sunday.
2. 汚れを除くためにしっかり洗ってください。 Please wash it thoroughly to remove the dirt.
3. 彼を除いた全員が出席した。 Everyone except him attended.

Usage Guide

Context: business, rules, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 除 combines 阝 (mound/hill) and 余 (surplus), suggesting clearing away excess from a place.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal