JLPT N2

Meaning and Usage

"虹" (にじ) means "rainbow" in Japanese. It refers to the colorful arc that appears in the sky when sunlight shines through raindrops. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation, literature, and media.

Common Contexts

You will often hear "虹" when talking about weather, nature, or feelings inspired by the rainbow's beauty. It can also describe colors or patterns that resemble a rainbow, such as "虹色" (rainbow-colored).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 虹がかかる: a rainbow appears in the sky
  • 虹を見る: to see a rainbow
  • 虹色の〜: rainbow-colored (used for clothes, objects, etc.)

Nuances and Tips

Using "虹" often conveys a positive or hopeful feeling, as rainbows are associated with beauty and good luck. When describing colors, "虹色" is a common adjective. Avoid confusing "虹" with other weather phenomena like "雲" (cloud) or "雨" (rain).

Example Sentences

あめあがりにそらにおおきなにじがかかった。

After the rain stopped, a big rainbow appeared in the sky.

にじをみるとしあわせなきもちになる。

Seeing a rainbow makes me feel happy.

にじいろのしゃつをかった。

I bought a rainbow-colored shirt.