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日本語
家 — meaning in English: House
ie · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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house
家
ie
オープニング
ōpuningu
差別
sabetsu
癌
gan
バット
batto
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 家 (ie) frequently in everyday conversation when discussing their homes or living arrangements. For example, one might say, '私の家は東京にあります' (My house is in Tokyo) when asked about their residence. It's commonly used in both casual settings with friends and more formal discussions about family life.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 住宅 (juutaku), which also means dwelling or residence but often conveys a more formal or technical sense, such as in real estate contexts. You would choose 家 (ie) for casual conversations about your home while using 住宅 (juutaku) when discussing housing policies or architectural styles.
Culture
The word 家 (ie) has deep cultural significance in Japan, where the concept of home extends beyond mere physical structure to encompass family and heritage. Historically, homes were often designed to reflect the ideals of harmony and community, and even today, the home is a central theme in Japanese art, literature, and festivals, representing a sanctuary for family and tradition.
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