Meaning and Usage
The word 人形 (にんぎょう) primarily refers to dolls or figures that resemble humans. It can mean children's toys, decorative figures, or traditional cultural dolls.
Common Contexts
People often use 人形 when talking about toys for children, such as dolls they play with. It is also used for traditional dolls dressed in cultural attire, which are often displayed during festivals or special occasions.
Collocations and Patterns
- 人形で遊ぶ: to play with dolls, common when talking about children.
- 伝統的な人形: traditional dolls, often referring to cultural or ceremonial figures.
- 人形を流す: to float dolls (down a river), a phrase linked to specific customs or rituals.
Register and Nuance
人形 is a neutral term and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. When referring to dolls in cultural or ceremonial settings, it carries a respectful tone.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 人形 with おもちゃ (toy) in general. Remember, 人形 specifically means a doll or figure resembling a person, not all toys.