Meaning and Usage
The word "河" (かわ) means "river" or "stream" in Japanese. It refers to natural flowing bodies of water, typically larger than a stream but smaller than a sea or ocean. It is a common noun used in everyday conversation and writing.
Common Contexts
"河" is often used when talking about geography, nature, or locations near water. It can describe rivers in towns, countryside, or natural settings. It is also used in expressions related to water activities like fishing or swimming.
Collocations and Patterns
- 河が流れる (かわがながれる): "the river flows" – describing the movement of the river.
- 河の水 (かわのみず): "river water" – referring to the water in the river.
- 河で〜する (かわで〜する): "do something in the river" – used when describing activities like fishing or playing.
Register and Usage Notes
"河" is a neutral and standard word suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is more common in written language and formal speech than the more casual "川" (also read かわ), but both are often interchangeable depending on context.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "河" with "川". While both mean "river," "河" often appears in compound words or formal contexts, whereas "川" is more common in everyday speech. Pay attention to the context and usage to choose the appropriate kanji.