2 Japanese words read hiku
hiku (ひく) is shared by 2 distinct words, each with its own kanji and meaning. Jump to: 引く · 弾く.
引く
ひくTo pull; to draw; to subtract
How to remember it
Pull (引く) a line away from another — that's subtraction, like drawing back a bowstring.
Example sentences
重い荷物を引いて運びました。
おもいにもつをひいてはこびました。
I pulled the heavy luggage to carry it.
5から2を引くと3になります。
ごからにをひくとさんになります。
Subtract 2 from 5 and you get 3.
Usage
Common verbs of removal: 引く (subtract), 下げる; opposite of 足す (add).
Related words
弾く
ひくTo play (a string instrument or piano)
How to remember it
Pluck the strings — 弾く shares sound with pull (引く), fingers plucking like tiny pulls.
Example sentences
妹はピアノを弾くのが上手です。
いもうとはぴあのをひくのがじょうずです。
My younger sister is good at playing the piano.
彼はギターを弾いて歌いました。
かれはぎたーをひいてうたいました。
He played the guitar and sang.
Usage
Used only for string/keyboard instruments; use 吹く for wind, 叩く for drums.