What is 磁石?
磁石 (じしゃく) means "magnet" in Japanese. It refers to an object that produces a magnetic field and can attract ferromagnetic materials like iron.
Common Uses
You will often see 磁石 used in scientific contexts, such as explaining magnetic forces or compass mechanisms. It is also common in everyday life, for example, when attaching notes to metal surfaces using small magnets.
Collocations and Patterns
- 磁石を使う (じしゃくをつかう): to use a magnet, often in experiments or practical applications.
- 磁石で引きつける (じしゃくでひきつける): to attract with a magnet, describing the magnetic pull.
- 磁石の力 (じしゃくのちから): the power of a magnet, used when discussing magnetic strength.
Register and Nuance
磁石 is a neutral, standard noun used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a technical term but also common in daily conversation when referring to magnets.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 磁石 with 電石 (でんせき), which is an archaic term for a type of mineral or electric stone. Always use 磁石 when referring to magnets in modern Japanese.