Meaning and Usage
"塀" (へい) refers specifically to a wall or fence, often made of concrete, wood, or stone, used to enclose or protect an area such as a house or school. It is more formal and physical than the general word "壁" (かべ), which means wall inside buildings.
Common Contexts
You will often see "塀" used when talking about the boundaries of properties, schools, or gardens. It implies a solid structure that marks a clear division or protection.
Collocations and Patterns
- 塀が高い: describes a tall fence, often implying security or privacy.
- 塀に落書きをする: to graffiti on a fence, a common phrase in school or neighborhood contexts.
- 塀の向こう: beyond the fence, used to describe what lies outside a boundary.
Usage Notes
"塀" is a noun and typically appears with verbs like "ある" (to exist), "作る" (to build), or "越える" (to climb over). It is a neutral to slightly formal term, suitable for written and spoken Japanese.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "塀" with "壁". Remember, "壁" usually refers to walls inside buildings, while "塀" is for outdoor fences or walls surrounding a property.