陽射

ひざし

sunlight, rays of the sun

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"陽射" (ひざし) refers specifically to the rays or beams of sunlight. It is often used to describe the quality or intensity of sunlight entering a space or shining on something. This word carries a natural, poetic nuance and is common in everyday conversation as well as in literature.

Common Contexts

You will frequently encounter "陽射" when talking about weather, seasons, or the atmosphere created by sunlight. It can describe anything from the gentle warmth of spring sunlight to the harsh brightness of midday sun.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 窓から差し込む陽射し: sunlight streaming through a window, emphasizing the direction and effect of light.
  • 強い陽射し: strong sunlight, often implying heat or potential for sunburn.
  • 柔らかい陽射し: soft sunlight, usually describing a gentle, pleasant light.

Register and Nuance

"陽射" is neutral and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. It is more poetic than the simple word "日光" (にっこう), which also means sunlight but is more scientific or neutral.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "陽射" with "日差し" (also read ひざし), which is a synonym but slightly more common in everyday speech. Both are interchangeable, but "陽射" often appears in written or literary contexts. Remember to use "陽射" when you want a slightly more refined or poetic tone.

Example Sentences

まどからさしこむひざしがへやをあたたかくてらしている。

The sunlight streaming through the window warmly lights up the room.

つよいひざしのしたでちょうじかんそとにいると、ひやけすることがある。

If you stay outside for a long time under strong sunlight, you might get sunburned.

はるのやわらかいひざしがここちよいきせつになった。

It has become the season when the soft spring sunlight feels pleasant.