うがい

うがい
noun/suru verb
gargling
1. gargling
The act of rinsing the mouth and throat with liquid.
うがいをする。
To gargle.
(かえ)ったら手洗(てあら)いとうがいをしなさい。
Wash your hands and gargle when you get home.
うがい(ぐすり)使(つか)う。
To use gargling medicine.
風邪(かぜ)予防(よぼう)にはうがいが大切(たいせつ)です。
Gargling is important for preventing colds.
(のど)(いた)いので、塩水(しおみず)でうがいをしている。
My throat hurts, so I've been gargling with salt water.

うがい refers to gargling as a hygiene practice.

COMMON PATTERNS:

  • うがいをする (to gargle)
  • うがい(ぐすり) (gargling medicine, mouthwash)
  • 手洗(てあら)いとうがい (handwashing and gargling)

CULTURAL NOTE:

  • Gargling is emphasized as a health practice in Japan
  • Common advice: うがい、手洗(てあら)い (gargle, wash hands)
  • Especially promoted during cold/flu season