切れ端・切れはし|きれはしkirehashi[0]heiban (flat)
This browser can't play pronunciations (needs Safari 18.4 or later, or Chrome / Edge / Firefox).
Which spelling to use
切れ端切れ端 is the more common written form. It combines kanji and kana, and beginners should use it as their default.
切れはし切れはし is a less common written variant. It also combines kanji and kana, so you may encounter it less often.
Definitions
- nounfragment; scrap; cut end; cut-off piece; chip; odds and ends
Synonyms & antonyms
- Synonym切れっ端きれっぱしCasualA colloquial, emphatic form of 「切れ端」 with a casual, throwaway nuance — the scraps sound trivial or of little value.
- Synonym切り端きりはしNeutralCut-off ends or scraps; synonymous with 「切れ端」 but used less often.
- Synonym切っ端きっぱしNeutralFragments left after cutting something; rare in speech — in everyday use 「切れ端」 is the normal word.
- Related布切れぬのきれNeutralA scrap of cloth; restricted to fabric, so its range is narrower than 「切れ端」.
For scraps or pieces left over from cutting, 「切れ端」 is the default; in casual speech say 「切れっ端」. Use 「布切れ」 when the scrap is cloth. 「切り端」 and 「切っ端」 are rarer synonyms you will seldom need.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
Kanji in this word
English equivalents
See also
