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VocabJLPT N1

sounding out

NounSuru VerbTransitive Verb

Definitions

1. percussion
2. tapping
3. sounding out (someone's intentions)

This noun and verb (する) has two related meanings: medically, it refers to percussion, a diagnostic technique where a doctor taps the body to assess internal conditions; more broadly, it means to sound out or probe someone's intentions or opinions. The second meaning is very common in business and daily conversation.

Example sentences

Sentence 1

The doctor percussed my chest and said, "The resonance sounds a bit weak."

Sentence 2

First, I'll percuss the wall surface to identify any problem areas.

Sentence 3

My senior said "this spot's dangerous" and showed me by tapping the floor.

Sentence 4

Wait, I tapped the ceiling and dust came falling down!

Sentence 5

He had his chest percussed and was told to take a breath.