Entry
スルッと
surutto
Describes a quick, effortless slipping or gliding motion without any friction or resistance.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
This word describes an action occurring smoothly and effortlessly, often with a quick, gliding, or slipping motion. It implies a complete lack of friction or resistance, such as a tight ring finally sliding off a finger, swallowing noodles effortlessly, or something slipping through a narrow gap.
- Slipping off or sliding smoothly
- Passing through gaps easily
Sense Map
Slipping and Sliding
Used when an object slips out of place, comes off, or slides down instantly and smoothly.
指輪がスルッと抜ける
Passing Through
Used when someone or something passes smoothly through a narrow space without getting stuck.
隙間をスルッと通り抜ける
Usage Note
How to Use
スルッと + Verb
Acts as an adverb directly modifying verbs of motion, such as nukeru (to slip out), ochiru (to fall/slide), or hairu (to enter).
How to Use
Common Phrases
スルッと抜ける
to slip off effortlessly
スルッと落ちる
to slide down smoothly
スルッと入る
to slip into easily
スルッと通り抜ける
to pass through smoothly
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Objects | neutral | Very commonly used for clothing, rings, or slippery objects detaching or moving. |
| Eating Food | positive | Indicates that food (especially noodles) goes down the throat pleasantly and smoothly. |
| Revealing Secrets | negative | Implies regret when words or secrets accidentally slip out of one's mouth without thinking. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
するする するする / nearby | Use when the smooth motion is continuous over a longer duration, like sliding down a long pole or reeling in a rope. | Surutto usually points to a single, quick, instantaneous slipping action. | ロープをするする登る |
すいすい すいすい / nearby | Use for describing smooth, unhindered forward progress, like swimming well or breezing through tasks. | Surutto focuses strictly on the lack of physical friction in a specific motion, not on general progress. | スイスイ泳ぐ |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using surutto to describe how a smooth surface feels to the touch.
Use tsurutsuru or subesube for tactile textures. Surutto is only for the motion of slipping.
Using surutto to say you speak Japanese fluently.
Use surasura for fluent speech or reading without hesitation.
Examples
Examples
指輪がスルッと抜けた。
ゆびわがスルッとぬけた。
The ring slipped off smoothly.
VisualShows the ring came off without getting stuck on the finger.
猫が狭い隙間をスルッと通り抜けた。
ねこがせまいすきまをスルッととおりぬけた。
The cat slipped smoothly through the narrow gap.
VisualFocuses on the smooth movement without getting caught.
うどんがスルッと胃に入った。
うどんがスルッといにはいった。
The udon went down smoothly into my stomach.
VisualShows the smooth texture of the food being swallowed effortlessly.
秘密がスルッと口から出た。
ひみつがスルッとくちからでた。
The secret accidentally slipped out of my mouth.
FigurativeFigurative use for words escaping without resistance.
オムレツがフライパンからスルッと落ちた。
オムレツがフライパンからスルッとおちた。
The omelette slid smoothly off the frying pan.
VisualIndicates a lack of stickiness or friction on the surface.
Similar Words
するする
surusuru
Describes movement or progress that happens smoothly and effortlessly without friction or catching. Used for continuous smooth motion over time.
スイスイ
suisui
Describes physical movement or abstract progress that occurs smoothly, swiftly, and without any obstacles. Indicates smooth forward progress without obstacles.
つるり
tsururi
Describes something completely smooth to the touch or sliding effortlessly without friction.
Questions
Can I use surutto for a smooth internet connection?
No, surutto focuses on physical slipping. For apps or internet working smoothly, use sakusaku.
What is the difference between surutto and tsurutsuru?
Tsurutsuru describes the state of a surface being slick or smooth. Surutto describes the actual action or movement of something slipping across it.
Can I use this for smooth teamwork?
Generally no. For smooth cooperation or tasks going well, words like suisui or tonton-byoushi are more natural.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 2806790
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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