Translation guide
The English verb "erase" covers several distinct actions in Japanese, from physically rubbing out marks to deleting digital data. The most common equivalent is 消す (kesu), but the best choice depends on what is being erased and how.
To rub out or wipe away written or drawn marks from a surface.
General verb for erasing marks, turning off lights, or deleting data. For pencil marks, often used with 消しゴム (eraser).
Please erase the writing on the blackboard.
I made a mistake, so I erased the part written in pencil with an eraser.
To wipe off and erase, often used for whiteboards or chalkboards when physically wiping.
I wiped the writing off the whiteboard.
To remove data from a computer, phone, or other digital device.
Commonly used for deleting files, messages, or data. Works in most digital contexts.
I accidentally erased that file.
I erased all the messages.
More formal or technical term for deletion, often used in software menus and official contexts.
Please delete unnecessary data.
To cause something to be forgotten or to eliminate completely.
To erase completely, wipe out. Stronger than 消す, often used for memories, past, or traces.
He wanted to erase the memories of his past.
To erase, delete, or strike out formally, often used for records, names from lists, or legal existence.
His name was erased from the roster.
To forget completely, to let something fade from memory. Used when the focus is on the act of forgetting rather than actively erasing.
To remove recorded content from magnetic tape or similar media.
General term for erasing recordings. Works for tapes, videos, or any recorded media.
I carelessly erased the contents of the video.
To remove something by rubbing or scraping, such as dirt, rust, or a stain.
消す (kesu) is the everyday word for erasing, deleting, or turning off. 削除する (sakujo suru) is more formal and technical, often seen in software menus or official documents. In casual conversation, 消す is almost always appropriate.
delete a photo
While 消す covers many meanings of 'erase', it does not work for erasing by scraping or rubbing off physical substances like rust or stains. Use verbs like こすり落とす or 削り取る instead.
The incident was erased from people's memories.
I scraped off the rust and then painted it.