Meaning and Usage
The word 丈 (たけ) primarily refers to the length or height of something, often used for physical dimensions such as fabric length, height of a person, or the length of clothing. It is a noun and is commonly used in contexts involving measurements.
Common Contexts
丈 is frequently used when discussing clothing (e.g., kimono length), fabric, or a person's height. It is more formal and specific than general words like 長さ (ながさ) for length.
Collocations and Patterns
- 丈が長い／短い: "length is long/short" – used to describe the size of clothes or fabric.
- 背丈 (せたけ): "height (of a person)" – a common compound.
- 丈を直す: "to alter the length" – often used in tailoring.
Register and Nuance
丈 is a somewhat literary or formal term, often found in written language or polite conversation about measurements. It is less casual than simply saying 長さ.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 丈 with 高さ (たかさ), which also means height but is used more for objects or buildings. 丈 is more natural when referring to a person's height or clothing length.