Meaning and Usage
The word 煙 (けむり) primarily means "smoke" or "fumes," referring to the visible vapor or gas produced by fire or burning substances. It is a common noun used in everyday conversation and written language.
Common Contexts
煙 is often used when talking about fire, cigarettes, pollution, or any situation where smoke is present. It can describe both natural smoke from fires and artificial smoke such as cigarette smoke.
Collocations and Patterns
- 煙が出る (けむりがでる): "smoke comes out" – used to describe smoke appearing or rising.
- 煙を吸う (けむりをすう): "to inhale smoke" – often used in the context of smoking cigarettes.
- 煙に巻かれる (けむりにまかれる): "to be enveloped in smoke" – used to describe being surrounded or obscured by smoke.
Register and Nuance
煙 is a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is not slang or overly technical, making it suitable for daily conversation, news reports, and literature.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 煙 (けむり) with 霧 (きり), which means "fog" or "mist." Remember, 煙 is related to fire and burning, while 霧 is natural atmospheric moisture.
Using 煙 correctly helps you describe situations involving fire, pollution, or smoking clearly and naturally.