Meaning and Usage
The word "爪" (つめ) primarily refers to fingernails or toenails in everyday Japanese. It can also mean claws when talking about animals, especially cats or dogs.
Common Collocations
- 爪を切る (つめをきる): to cut nails
- 爪を立てる (つめをたてる): to scratch with claws
- 爪の間 (つめのあいだ): between the nails
Usage Notes
When using 爪, it often implies the physical nail itself, but in animal contexts, it refers to claws. Be careful not to confuse it with "爪先" (つまさき), which means the tip of the toe or foot.
Register and Politeness
"爪" is a neutral term used in both casual and formal contexts. It is common in daily conversation and written language.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 爪 with "爪先" or "爪楊枝" (toothpick). Remember 爪 specifically means nails or claws, not the tip of the toe or a tool.