Translation and Meaning of: 柱 - hashira

The word 「柱」 (hashira) in Japanese is commonly used to designate "pillar" or "column." This word is often found in traditional Japanese architecture, where wooden pillars are essential components of structures. These pillars not only support the weight of the building but also symbolize stability and strength, central elements in Japan's construction philosophy.

Etymologically, 「柱」 is composed of two main radicals: 「木」 (ki), which means "tree" or "wood," and 「主」 (shu), which means "main" or "chief." Thus, the combination of these characters conveys the idea of "main wood," reflecting the structural and symbolic importance of these elements in buildings. The word hashira has a strong connection with the use of natural elements, which is common in many Japanese words related to construction and architecture.

In addition to architectural use, 「柱」 is often employed in a figurative sense to indicate something or someone that serves as support or a central axis in a specific context. For example, in a team or organization, a "hashira" can be the vital person who keeps everything functioning cohesively. This metaphor is based on the Japanese understanding that, just like in a building, some people or support points are fundamental to the stability of the whole.

The expression 「柱」 also appears in various combinations and variations, such as 「電柱」 (denchuu) which means "electric pole," incorporating the same concept of essential support. This capacity for adaptation and expansion of meaning makes 「柱」 a quite versatile word within the Japanese language, highlighting both the physical and symbolic aspects of the term.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

支柱 (Shichuu) - Support, structural pillar
柱 (Hashira) - Pillar, column
柱状 (Chujou) - In column form, form of a column
柱形 (Hashiragata) - Pillar shape, cylindrical format
柱状のもの (Chujou no mono) - Columnar thing, object in the shape of a column.
柱のようなもの (Hashira no you na mono) - Something that is like a pillar, similar to a column
柱のように立つ (Hashira no you ni tatsu) - Rise like a pillar, stand like a column
柱のように強い (Hashira no you ni tsuyoi) - Strong as a pillar, resilient as a column
柱のように頑丈な (Hashira no you ni ganjou na) - Robust as a pillar, solid as a column
柱のように重要な (Hashira no you ni juuyou na) - Important as a pillar, fundamental as a column
柱のように安定した (Hashira no you ni antei shita) - Stable as a pillar, fixed as a column
柱のように信頼できる (Hashira no you ni shinrai dekiru) - Reliable as a pillar, safe as a column
柱のように不可欠な (Hashira no you ni fukaketsu na) - Indispensable as a pillar, essential as a column
柱のように高い (Hashira no you ni takai) - Tall as a pillar, elevated like a column
柱のように大きい (Hashira no you ni ookii) - Large as a pillar, voluminous as a column
柱のように広い (Hashira no you ni hiroi) - Wide as a pillar, extensive as a column
柱のように長い (Hashira no you ni nagai) - Long as a pillar, extensive as a column.
柱のように太い (Hashira no you ni futoi) - Thick as a pillar, robust as a column