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書く
kaku
write
手紙を書く
to write a letter
neutral
To form letters, words, or symbols on a surface using a tool such as a pen, pencil, or brush.
彼はノートに漢字を書く。
He writes kanji in his notebook.
黒板に名前を書いてください。
Please write your name on the blackboard.
Used for both physical writing (pen on paper) and figurative writing (e.g., typing on a computer).
neutral
To compose or create a text, such as a letter, story, or article.
彼女は毎日日記を書く。
She writes in her diary every day.
この本は誰が書いたのですか？
Who wrote this book?
Often used for creative or formal writing.
informal
To draw or paint, especially in a simple or quick manner.
子供が壁に落書きを書く。
The child scribbles on the wall.
Less common than 描く (egaku) for drawing, but used for rough or casual drawings.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Conjugation for past tense
The past tense of 書く is 書いた (kaita). For example, 'I wrote' is 書いた (kaita).
Gold Rule
When to use 書く vs 描く
Use 書く for writing letters, reports, or general text. Use 描く for drawing or painting, especially artistic works.
Word Origin
From Old Japanese *kaku*, ultimately from Proto-Japonic *kanku. The kanji 書 is derived from the Chinese character 書, meaning 'to write' or 'document'.
Usage Notes
書く is the most general verb for 'to write' in Japanese. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For artistic drawing, 描く (egaku) is more commonly used.
Word Breakdown
書
to write
rootく
verb ending
suffix和英辞典