Translation guide
The act of removing dust from surfaces, typically with a cloth or tool.
The general action of cleaning dust off furniture, shelves, etc.
Literally 'to remove dust'. A straightforward and common way to express dusting.
毎朝、棚のほこりを取ります。
I dust the shelves every morning.
Applying a thin layer of powder, like flour or sugar.
To coat lightly with powder. Common in cooking contexts.
ケーキに粉砂糖をまぶす。
Dust the cake with powdered sugar.
Literally 'to wipe dust'. Emphasizes using a cloth to wipe away dust.
机の上のほこりを拭いてください。
Please dust the desk.
General cleaning. Dusting is often implied as part of cleaning, but it's not specific to dusting.
週末に家の掃除をします。
I clean the house on weekends (including dusting).
To use a feather duster. 'はたき' is a traditional Japanese dusting tool.
祖母は毎日はたきをかけます。
My grandmother dusts with a feather duster every day.
To sprinkle powder over something. Slightly more casual than まぶす.
ドーナツにシナモンをふりかける。
Dust the donuts with cinnamon.