Meaning and Usage
The word "腕" (うで) primarily means "arm" as a part of the body. However, it is also commonly used metaphorically to refer to a person's skill, ability, or craftsmanship. This dual usage is very common in everyday Japanese.
Common Collocations
- 腕がいい: means "skilled" or "good at something," often used to praise someone's ability.
- 腕を磨く: literally "to polish one's arm," meaning to improve or hone one's skills.
- 腕が太い: describes physically thick or strong arms.
Register and Nuance
"腕" is a neutral word suitable for both casual and formal contexts. When used metaphorically, it often implies respect for someone's expertise or craftsmanship.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "腕" with "手" (て), which means "hand." Remember that "腕" refers to the whole arm, from shoulder to wrist, while "手" is specifically the hand. Also, when used metaphorically, "腕" focuses on skill rather than physical body parts.
Summary
Understanding both the literal and figurative meanings of "腕" will help you use it naturally in conversations about physical descriptions and praising skills or abilities.