構え

かまえ
Alternative writings:
JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

Structure, construction, or appearance; the way something is built or arranged, or its outward look.

Noun

Examples

その家は古いながらも堂々とした構えがある。

Although old, the house has an imposing appearance.

長い文章を書き始める前に、全体の構えを考える。

Before starting a long piece of writing, I think about the overall structure.

写真を見ると、その建物の構えから歴史を感じる。

You can sense the history from the building's appearance in the photo.

2

Posture, pose, or stance (e.g., in martial arts); the bodily position used to prepare for action.

Noun

Examples

剣道では正しい構えが勝敗を左右することもある。

In kendo, the correct stance can sometimes determine victory or defeat.

カメラを構えるときは両手の構えを安定させる。

When holding a camera, stabilize your stance with both hands.

写真家は被写体に合わせて構えを変えた。

The photographer changed their stance to suit the subject.

3

Readiness, determination, or preparedness; the mental or practical stance when preparing for something.

Noun

Examples

入試に向けて心の構えを固める必要がある。

You need to firm up your mindset in preparation for the entrance exam.

彼は冷静な構えで会議に臨んだ。

He approached the meeting with a calm readiness.

会社は不測の事態に備えた構えを整えている。

The company has put measures in place to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

4

A kanji enclosure type (radical) that must enclose at least two sides of the character (e.g., the 'gate' enclosure); a technical term in kanji composition.

Noun

Examples

『門』は漢字の代表的な門構えの例だ。

『門』 is a representative example of a 'gate' enclosure in kanji.

門構えやかまえの種類は漢字学で詳しく分類される。

Types of enclosures and 'kamae' are classified in detail in kanji studies.

Word Relationships

Derivations