Meaning and Usage
The word "肩" (かた) primarily means "shoulder," referring to the part of the body connecting the arm to the torso. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and written Japanese.
Common Contexts
"肩" is often used when talking about physical sensations like stiffness or pain (肩が凝る), carrying something on the shoulder (肩にかける), or body language such as shrugging (肩をすくめる).
Collocations and Patterns
- 肩が凝る: to have stiff shoulders, often due to stress or poor posture.
- 肩を貸す: to lend a shoulder, meaning to help or support someone.
- 肩をすくめる: to shrug one's shoulders, expressing uncertainty or indifference.
- 肩にかける: to put something on one's shoulder, like a bag or load.
Register and Nuance
"肩" is a neutral, common noun used in both casual and formal contexts. It appears in medical, everyday, and figurative expressions.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "肩" with "腕" (うで, arm) or "背中" (せなか, back). Remember that "肩" specifically refers to the shoulder area, not the entire arm or back.