場面

ばめん

scene, setting (e.g., of novel)

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"場面" (ばめん) primarily refers to a "scene" or "setting," especially in contexts like movies, novels, or plays. It describes a specific moment or situation within a larger story or event.

Common Contexts

You will often see "場面" used when talking about scenes in films, TV dramas, or books, such as 感動的な場面 (moving scene) or 緊張した場面 (tense situation). It can also refer to real-life situations or moments where something important happens.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 場面が変わる: the scene changes; used to describe a shift in setting or situation.
  • 場面を想像する: to imagine a scene; often used when visualizing or recalling a situation.
  • 緊張した場面: a tense or nervous situation; common in conversations about stressful moments.

Register and Nuance

"場面" is a neutral, commonly used noun suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is more specific than just "場所" (place) because it implies a particular moment or situation rather than a general location.

Learner Tips

A common confusion is mixing "場面" with "場所". Remember, "場面" focuses on the scene or situation, often with emotional or narrative significance, while "場所" simply means "place" or "location." Use "場面" when emphasizing the context or moment within a story or event.

Example Sentences

えいがのかんどうてきなばめんでなみだがでた。

I cried at the moving scene in the movie.

このばめんではしゅじんこうがおおきなけつだんをする。

In this scene, the protagonist makes an important decision.

きんちょうしたばめんでもおちついてはなすことがたいせつだ。

It is important to speak calmly even in tense situations.