峠
tōge
The Japanese phrase touge translates to "mountain pass" in English.
The term refers to a mountain pass or a winding road that runs over a mountain ridge. Metaphorically, it can also describe reaching the peak or the turning point of a situation, such as a fever or a business cycle.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the kanji 峠, which specifically denotes the highest point or the crest of a mountain pass.
How do you pronounce it?
tōge
Did you know?
- The word's history is tied to a spiritual tribute. It is believed to have evolved from the word tamuke, which refers to offerings made to those departing for the afterlife.
- Because Japanese mountains are steep and frequent, the concept of a touge is central to the country's historical infrastructure and travel poetry.
Examples in context
- あの車、峠で速かったね！ (Ano kuruma, tōge de hayakatta ne!)That car was fast on the touge, right?
- 峠を越えると、次の町が見えてくる。touge o koeru to, tsugi no machi ga miete kuru.Once you cross the mountain pass, the next town comes into view.
- 霧のせいで峠が真っ白だ。kiri no sei de touge ga masshiro da.The mountain pass is completely white because of the fog.
Example conversation
Ren and Yui are hiking in the mountains.
- 蓮 Renもうすぐ峠に着くよ。mousugu touge ni tsuku yo.We will reach the mountain pass soon.
- 結衣 Yuiあそこが峠ですね。asoko ga touge desu ne.That is the mountain pass, isn't it?
- 蓮 Renあそこから景色が最高なんだ。asoko kara keshiki ga saikou nan da.The view from there is the best.
- 結衣 Yui楽しみですね、蓮さん。tanoshimi desu ne, Ren-san.I'm looking forward to it, Ren.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 峠, CC BY-SA 4.0.
