Meaning and Usage
The word "主" (ぬし) primarily means "owner" or "master," often referring to the person who has control or possession of something, such as a house or company. It can also mean "god" or "spirit" when used in a more traditional or spiritual context, such as the "master" or guardian of a mountain or place.
Common Contexts
"主" is frequently used in contexts involving ownership or authority, like "家の主" (the owner of a house) or "会社の主" (the owner of a company). In folklore or religious contexts, it can refer to a deity or spirit that governs a natural place.
Collocations and Patterns
- 家の主 (いえのぬし): owner of the house, used to indicate the person who lives in or controls the home.
- 山の主 (やまのぬし): master or spirit of the mountain, often used in folklore.
- 主として (ぬしとして): as the owner or main person responsible.
Register and Nuance
"主" is a formal and somewhat literary term. In everyday conversation, "持ち主" (もちぬし) is more common for "owner." When used to mean "god" or "spirit," it appears mostly in written or traditional contexts.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "主" (ぬし) with "主人" (しゅじん), which also means "master" or "husband." Remember that "主" alone emphasizes ownership or spiritual mastery, while "主人" is more common for "husband" or "master" in daily life.