指す

• Reading: さす
• Romaji: sasu
• Kanji breakdown: 指 (shi/sa) — finger, point, indicate
• Pronunciation: /sa.sɯ/

Meaning

To point; to indicate. The act of pointing at or indicating something with a finger or gesture.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugated with the す row. Used for pointing at objects or people, and also for making a move in shogi (将棋を指す). In conversation, often used with を to indicate the target being pointed at. Not to be confused with 刺す (to stab), 挿す (to insert), or 差す (to extend), all read さす.

Examples

1. 先生が地図の上で東京を指した。 The teacher pointed to Tokyo on the map.
2. 彼は遠くの山を指して説明を始めた。 He pointed to the distant mountains and began his explanation.
3. 祖父は毎週末、将棋を指すのが楽しみだ。 My grandfather looks forward to playing shogi every weekend.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, education, shogi

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 指 combines 扌 (hand radical) and 旨 (purport/aim). A hand that aims — pointing toward something with intent.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal