Meaning and Usage
The word 金庫 (きんこ) refers to a safe or vault used to securely store valuables such as money, important documents, or other precious items. It is commonly found in offices, banks, and homes.
Common Contexts
金庫 is often used when talking about physical security measures. For example, companies keep important papers in a 金庫, or individuals store cash and jewelry there to prevent theft.
Collocations and Patterns
- 金庫の鍵 (きんこのかぎ): "safe key" — used when discussing access or security.
- 金庫を開ける (きんこをあける): "to open the safe" — a common phrase when needing to retrieve items.
- 金庫に入れる (きんこにいれる): "to put into the safe" — used when storing valuables.
Register and Nuance
This word is neutral and formal enough for business and everyday use. It is not slang and is appropriate in both spoken and written Japanese.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 金庫 with 銀行 (ぎんこう, bank) or 財布 (さいふ, wallet). Remember, 金庫 specifically means a physical safe or vault, not a financial institution or a personal wallet.