あざ

Alternative writings: , , アザ
Frequency:

1A birthmark: a congenital discoloration or mark on the skin (e.g., nevus).

NounUsually Kana

Examples

彼は背中に大きなあざがある。

He has a large birthmark on his back.

生まれつきあざがある子どもを気にする必要はない。

There's no need to worry about a child who has a birthmark from birth.

皮膚科であざの診察を受けた。

I had a birthmark examined at the dermatology clinic.

2A bruise: a discoloration (often blue-purple) on the skin caused by a bump or blow.

NounUsually Kana

Examples

転んで膝にあざができた。

I fell and got a bruise on my knee.

氷で冷やすとあざの腫れが引きやすい。

Cooling with ice helps reduce swelling of a bruise.

打ち身のあざは数日で色が変わっていく。

A bruise from a blow changes color over a few days.