Translation and Meaning of: 日の入り - hinoiri

The expression 「日の入り」(hinoiri) is used to refer to the moment of sunset, when the sun disappears on the horizon at the end of the day. In Japanese, the word is composed of three characters: 「日」 which means "day" or "sun", 「の」 which is a linking particle, and 「入」 which denotes "to enter" or "to go in". This combination conveys the image of the sun "entering" the earth or "disappearing" on the western horizon.

Etymologically, 「日」 (nichi) is one of the oldest kanji in the Japanese language, often associated with time, the cycle of the day, and celestial phenomena. 「入」 (iri), in turn, conveys the idea of insertion and closure. The combination of these concepts creates a poetic and descriptive expression of the sunset phenomenon that integrates with the strong Japanese tradition of appreciating natural cycles and the ephemeral beauty of the world.

In addition to its literal meaning, 「日の入り」 is intertwined with cultural and philosophical aspects of Japan. The sunset is often contemplated in various traditions, such as in Japanese literature and art, where the moment is representative of transition, the closing of a cycle, and preparation for the new. In the Japanese calendar, sunset is a component that influences ceremonies and festivities, reflecting the deep connection that Japanese culture has with nature.

The appreciation of the sunset, or 「日の入り」, also resonates with the Japanese cultural phenomenon known as "Mono no Aware," which refers to sensitivity or empathy towards the transience of things. While watching the sun set, the Japanese often reflect on the passage of time and the inherent beauty in transience, feelings that are deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 夕焼け (yuuyake) - Colors of the sky at sunset, often referring to the brightness and colorful clouds.
• 夕陽 (yuuyou) - Setting sun; the sun itself as it sets on the horizon.
• 夕日 (yuuhi) - Afternoon sun, specifically the sun visible during sunset.
• 夕暮れ (yuugure) - Twilight; the transition period after sunset until it gets dark.

日の入り

Romaji: hinoiri
Kana: ひのいり
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Sunset

Meaning in English: sunset

Definition: the sun setting below the horizon.

Example Sentences - (日の入り) hinoiri

See below some example sentences:

日の入りは美しいです。

Hinon'iri wa utsukushii desu

The sunset is beautiful.

The sunset is beautiful.

• 日の入り - It means "sunset" in Japanese.
• は - Topic particle
• 美しい - adjective meaning "beautiful" or "beautiful"
• です - Verb "to be" in polite form