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日本語
影 — meaning in English: Shadow
kage · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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shadow
テレビ
terebi
森
mori
影
kage
段落
danraku
宿泊設備
shukuhaku setsubi
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use 影 (kage) in both everyday conversations and artistic expressions. For instance, when discussing photography, a person might refer to the play of light and shadow in their pictures, saying, 'この写真の影がとても美しい' (The shadow in this photo is very beautiful). Additionally, in literature, 影 is often employed to convey emotions, symbolizing mystery or concealment.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 陰 (in), which also means 'shadow' but often conveys a sense of darkness or concealment rather than the more neutral 影. You might choose 影 when discussing visual aspects, while 陰 could be more appropriate in emotional or philosophical contexts.
Culture
The word 影 (kage) has deep cultural significance in Japan, often representing not just physical shadows but also metaphorical ones, such as the shadows of one’s past or unexpressed feelings. In traditional Japanese art and literature, shadows can symbolize both beauty and transience, resonating with the concept of 'mono no aware', the sensitivity to the ephemeral nature of life.
FAQ
