Meaning and Usage
"翼" (つばさ) primarily means "wings," referring to the appendages birds, insects, and airplanes use to fly. It is a common noun used in both literal and figurative contexts.
Literal Use
In everyday conversation, "翼" is often used to describe the wings of birds, insects, or airplanes. For example, "鳥の翼" means "bird's wings." This word is typically used in written and spoken Japanese when emphasizing the physical wings.
Figurative Use
"翼" can also be used metaphorically to represent freedom, protection, or support, such as in expressions like "翼のある夢" (a dream with wings), implying aspirations or hopes that can take flight.
Common Collocations
- 翼を広げる: to spread wings, often used literally for birds or figuratively for expanding possibilities.
- 飛行機の翼: airplane wing, a common technical term.
- 翼を失う: to lose wings, figuratively meaning to lose freedom or ability.
Register and Nuance
"翼" is a neutral noun suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is not typically used in casual slang but appears frequently in literature, news, and technical descriptions.
Learner Tips
A common confusion is mixing "翼" with "羽" (はね), which also means feather or wing. "羽" often refers to individual feathers or wings in a more general or poetic sense, while "翼" emphasizes the whole wing structure, especially in animals and machines.