Meaning and Usage
The word 腰 (こし) refers to the waist or hips, the part of the body between the ribs and the pelvis. It is commonly used to describe physical sensations, movements, or posture related to this area.
Common Contexts
You will often hear 腰 used when talking about pain or discomfort (腰が痛い), bending or twisting the waist (腰を曲げる), or putting effort into something by engaging your core (腰を入れる).
Collocations and Patterns
- 腰が痛い: to have pain in the waist; used when describing physical pain.
- 腰を曲げる: to bend the waist; often used when describing posture or actions.
- 腰を入れる: to put your back into something; means to work hard or apply effort.
Register and Nuance
腰 is a neutral term used in everyday conversation and written language. It is neither formal nor informal but is essential vocabulary for describing body parts and physical conditions.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 腰 with お腹 (おなか, stomach) or 背中 (せなか, back). Remember 腰 specifically refers to the lower back/waist area, not the stomach or upper back.