弦・絃・鉉|つるtsuru[1]atamadaka (head-high)
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Which spelling to use
弦弦 is the most common written form for this meaning. It is the form beginners should normally choose when writing the word.
絃絃 is a less common written form of the same word. You may encounter it, but 弦 is the better choice for beginners.
鉉鉉 is the least common of the three written forms. Beginners should use 弦 rather than 鉉 when writing the word.
Definitions
- nounbowstring
- nounstring (of shamisen, guitar, violin, etc.)
- nounbail (arched pot handle)esp. 鉉
- noundiagonal levelling wire across the top of a masualso written as 梁
Synonyms & antonyms
- Synonym弓弦ゆみづるNeutralMeans a bowstring, same as 「弦(つる)」, but limited strictly to the string of a bow.
- RelatedストリングNeutralA loanword for cords and strings, or racket strings, as in 「ラケットのストリング」.
- Related絃げんWrittenWritten/formal prose on'yomi for the strings of a shamisen and similar instruments; leans toward stringed instruments.
Use 「弦(つる)」 for a bowstring, an instrument string, or a pot's bail, as in 「弓の弦を張る」; for the bowstring alone say 「弓弦」, for racket strings 「ストリング」, and for shamisen strings also 「絃」.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
- (ゲン、つる)弓のつる。
Kanji in this word
English equivalents


