Meaning and Usage
The word ひび primarily refers to a crack or fissure, often in solid materials like walls (かべのひび) or glass. It can also metaphorically describe flaws or cracks in abstract things, such as trust or relationships.
Common Contexts
You will often hear ひび used when discussing damage to buildings, glass, or ceramics. It is a noun and can be combined with verbs like 入る (to form) or 入れる (to put in). In figurative speech, it describes imperfections or breaks in non-physical things.
Collocations and Patterns
- 壁のひび (かべのひび): crack in the wall, used when talking about structural damage.
- ひびが入る: a crack appears or forms.
- ひびを入れる: to cause a crack or flaw.
- 関係にひびが入る: a crack appears in a relationship, meaning a problem or tension arises.
Register and Nuance
This word is neutral and commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese. It is appropriate in everyday conversation and technical contexts like construction or repair.
Learner Tips
Do not confuse ひび with 亀裂 (きれつ), which often refers to larger or more serious cracks. ひび usually implies smaller, finer cracks. Also, remember it can be used metaphorically, so context is important to understand whether it refers to a physical crack or an abstract flaw.