Translation and Meaning of: 軒並み - nokinami

The Japanese word 軒並み (のきなみ) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances that are worth exploring. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding the meaning, origin, and usage of this expression can enrich your knowledge. In this article, we will unravel how it is used in everyday life, its cultural context, and even tips for memorizing it effectively.

軒並み is a term that frequently appears in conversations and formal texts, but it can also be found in more casual situations. Its meaning goes beyond the literal translation, involving cultural and linguistic aspects that reflect the Japanese mindset. Here, you will discover how to use it correctly and in which situations it fits best.

Meaning and use of 軒並み

軒並み is an adverb meaning "in series," "one after another," or "uniformly." It is used to describe situations where something happens consecutively or generally, often with a negative connotation. For example, it can be applied when several shops close on the same street or when a series of unfavorable events occurs in succession.

In Japan, this word is commonly heard in news reports and articles, especially when discussing economic or social trends. Its use conveys the idea that something is happening widely and without exceptions, making it useful for describing collective phenomena. Despite its neutral tone, the context can lend it an air of concern or criticism.

Origin and composition of 軒並み

The word 軒並み is composed of two kanjis: 軒 (のき), which means "eave" or "house," and 並み (なみ), which can be translated as "aligned" or "in a row." Originally, the term referred to houses lined up along a street, creating a visual image of uniformity. Over time, its meaning has expanded to encompass abstract situations that follow a similar pattern.

This semantic evolution is common in Japanese, where words with concrete origins gain broader and more metaphorical meanings. In the case of 軒並み, the idea of lined-up houses has come to represent anything that occurs in a sequential or generalized manner, maintaining a subtle connection to its etymological root.

Tips for memorizing 軒並み

An effective way to fixate on 軒並み is to associate it with everyday situations where something happens repeatedly. For example, imagine a street where all the stores close at the same time – this image helps to remember the meaning of "in series" or "uniformly." Another strategy is to create simple sentences, like "今月は軒並み売り上げが下がった" (This month, sales dropped overall).

Moreover, studying kanji individually can facilitate learning. Knowing that 軒 is related to roof structures and 並み is associated with alignment reinforces the notion of order and repetition. Practicing with real examples, such as newspaper headlines or dialogues in Japanese dramas, also consolidates the understanding of the term in authentic contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 一斉に (issei ni) - Simultaneously, at the same time.
• 一様に (ichiyou ni) - Evenly, without variations.
• 全般的に (zenpan teki ni) - Generally, broadly.
• 一律に (ichiritsu ni) - In the same way, without exceptions.
• 一列に (ichiretsu ni) - In a single line, aligned.

軒並み

Romaji: nokinami
Kana: のきなみ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: row of houses

Meaning in English: row of houses

Definition: Buildings aligned in a row.

Example Sentences - (軒並み) nokinami

See below some example sentences:

軒並み値上げされた。

Kubanami neage sareta

The price has been increased on all houses.

The price has been raised all over the place.

• 軒並み - means "in general" or "in every house"
• 値上げ - means "price increase"
• された - is the passive form of the verb "to do" or "to be done"

The full sentence means "Prices have risen in general".