78
掘
Dig, Excavate
ほ.る
JLPT N2
Interesting Fact
Japan has discovered many ancient kofun burial mounds through archaeological excavations. Archaeologists use 掘る (horu), meaning 'to dig,' to uncover these historical treasures.
Memory Trick
Imagine using a shovel with your hand (扌) to dig deep into the ground until you discover hidden treasure. That action helps you remember 掘 means 'to dig.'
Readings
Onyomi: クツ (kutsu)
Kunyomi: ほ.る
Example Words
掘る
ほる (horu)
To dig
発掘
はっくつ (hakkutsu)
Excavation
採掘
さいくつ (saikutsu)
Mining
井戸を掘る
いど を ほる (ido o horu)
To dig a well
Example Sentence
庭 に 穴 を 掘りました。
にわ に あな を ほりました。
niwa ni ana o horimashita
I dug a hole in the garden.