写す

• Reading: うつす
• Romaji: utsusu
• Kanji breakdown: 写 (sha/utsu) — copy, photograph
• Pronunciation: /ɯ.tsɯ.sɯ/

Meaning

To copy; to transcribe; to photograph. To reproduce something by writing or capturing an image.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugated with the す row. Has two main uses: copying text by hand (writing down what you see) and taking photographs. Not to be confused with 映す (to project/reflect). Context usually makes the intended meaning clear.

Examples

1. 黒板の文字をノートに写してください。 Please copy the letters from the blackboard into your notebook.
2. 友達のレポートを写すのはよくないです。 It's not good to copy your friend's report.
3. 旅行で美しい景色を写しました。 I photographed the beautiful scenery on my trip.

Usage Guide

Context: school, photography, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 写 originally depicted pouring liquid from one vessel to another, capturing the concept of transferring or reproducing an image or text.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal