Japanese

きく
Meaning: to function; to be effective; to work
Part of Speech: Verb

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Verb inflections

Form Affirmative Negative
Present 利く 利かない
Polite 利きます 利きません
Past 利いた 利かなかった
Polite + Past 利きました 利きませんでした
Te-form 利いて 利かなくて
Potential 利ける 利けない
Passive 利かれる 利かれない
Causative 利かせる 利かせない
Causative + Passive 利かされる 利かされない
Imperative 利け 利くな

Handwriting

利
く

Example sentences

Since he has a sharp sense of smell, you can't hide anything.
あんな奴とはもう二度と口をきかない。
I will never talk to a guy like that again.
彼は真面目だが、融通が利かない。
He is serious, but he lacks flexibility.
彼は賢しらな口をきいて、皆を不快にさせた。
He spoke impertinently and made everyone uncomfortable.
あの老人は偏窟で、近所の人たちと滅多に口をきかない。
That old man is eccentric and rarely speaks with the neighbors.

Usage Notes

Often used for functions or abilities (e.g., 'the nose works' for a good sense of smell).

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