手斧
teono
The Japanese word for hatchet is 手斧 (teono).
手斧 refers to a small axe. Note that the word nata can also be used to refer to a traditional Japanese gardening tool that is similar to a hatchet.
Meaning: small axe (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word 手斧 is composed of the kanji for hand (手) and axe (斧).
How do you pronounce it?
teono
Did you know?
- In Japanese folklore, certain spirits or deities are depicted carrying an 斧 as a symbol of their power to clear the path or build shrines.
- While 手斧 describes the tool's function, an English speaker might be surprised that Japanese often prioritizes the user's physical relationship to the tool in its naming conventions.
- The kanji 斧 is rarely used in everyday modern Japanese writing, appearing much more frequently in historical texts or specific technical manuals than in casual conversation.
Examples in context
- 私はキャンプに行くので、ナタを持っていきます。I'm going camping, so I will bring a hatchet with me.
- キャンプ用に手斧を買いました。Kyanpu-yō ni teokono o kaimashita.I bought a hatchet for camping.
- 鋭い手斧で薪を割ります。Surudoi teokono de maki o warimasu.I split firewood with a sharp hatchet.
Example conversation
Kenta and Yui are preparing a campfire.
- 健太 Kenta結衣、手斧を持ってきてくれる？Yui, jiaxe o motte kite kureru?Yui, can you bring the hatchet?
- 結衣 Yuiうん、どこにあるかな。Un, doko ni aru kana.Yeah, I wonder where it is.
- 健太 Kenta道具箱の中にあるよ。Dougubako no naka ni aru yo.It is inside the toolbox.
- 結衣 Yuiあった！この手斧を使うね。Atta! Kono jiaxe o tsukau ne.Found it! I'll use this hatchet.
