ふし

tune, tone, knob

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "節" (ふし) primarily refers to a musical tune or a tone, often describing the melody or rhythm in songs. It can also mean a joint or node, such as the segments on bamboo or other plants. Additionally, it is used metaphorically to indicate key points or important parts in speech or writing.

Common Collocations

  • 節がある (ふしがある): to have a tune or a certain tone
  • 節々 (ふしぶし): key points or joints; often used to refer to important parts in a story or physical joints in the body
  • 節目 (ふしめ): a turning point or milestone

Usage Notes

When used in music, 節 refers to the melody or tune that can be hummed or recognized. In conversation, 節々 points to important moments or phrases that carry meaning or emphasis. In botany or physical description, 節 means the joint or node on plants or sometimes on the body.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse 節 (ふし) with 調 (ちょう), which also relates to musical tone but is more about the key or pitch. Remember, 節 focuses on the tune or segment, not the pitch itself.

Example Sentences

このきょくのふしがとてもいんしょうてきだ。

The tune of this song is very impressive.

はなしのふしぶしにちゅういしてきいてください。

Please pay attention to the key points of the story.

たけのふしにふしめがある。

There are nodes on the bamboo joints.