息 — meaning in English: breath

iki · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for breath

息

iki

風呂

furo

逮捕

taiho

メンバーシップ

menbāshippu

キャラクター

kyarakutā

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 息 (iki) in both everyday conversations and in more serious discussions about health and wellness. For instance, you might hear it during a yoga class when discussing breathing techniques, or in a medical context when talking about someone's respiratory health.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 息 (iki) is 呼吸 (kokyuu), which specifically means 'respiration' or 'breathing' in a more technical sense. While 息 can refer to the act of breathing in a general context, 呼吸 is often used in medical or scientific discussions.

Culture

The word 息 (iki) has deep cultural significance in Japan, closely tied to concepts of life and vitality. In traditional practices like Zen meditation, breath control is considered essential for achieving a state of tranquility and mindfulness, reflecting the spiritual importance of this simple yet vital action.

FAQ

Q.What does 息 (iki) mean in English?

息 (iki) translates to 'breath' in English. It refers to the act of inhaling and exhaling, an essential function for life.

Q.How do I use 息 (iki) in a sentence?

You can use 息 in sentences like '彼は深く息を吸った' (Kare wa fukaku iki o sutta), which means 'He took a deep breath.' It's often used to describe inhalation or the act of calming oneself.

Q.Is there a common mistake learners make with 息 (iki)?

One common mistake is confusing 息 (iki) with 呼吸 (kokyuu). Remember that while both relate to breathing, 息 is more general, while 呼吸 is specific to the medical or scientific context.

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