名句

• Reading: めいく
• Romaji: meiku
• Kanji breakdown: 名 (mei/na) — name, fame, renowned; 句 (ku) — phrase, verse, clause
• Pronunciation: /meː.kɯ/

Meaning

A famous phrase, celebrated verse, or well-known line from literature or poetry. A passage of exceptional literary quality that is widely admired and quoted.

A Sino-Japanese compound noun used in literary and cultural discussions. 名句 may refer to a single memorable line from classical poetry, a proverb, or a quotation from a revered author. The term implies not only fame but aesthetic excellence — a phrase that resonates across generations. Often used in the context of classical haiku, waka, or celebrated prose writers. Collecting or memorising 名句 has been a cultural practice in Japanese education for centuries.

Examples

1. この詩集には古今東西の名句が収められている。 This poetry collection contains famous phrases from across the ages and around the world.
2. 彼はスピーチの締めくくりに芭蕉の名句を引いた。 He closed his speech by quoting a celebrated verse by Basho.
3. 一つの名句との出会いが人生観を変えることもある。 An encounter with a single famous phrase can sometimes change one's outlook on life.

Usage Guide

Context: literary criticism, classical poetry, education, public speaking

Tone: appreciative, literary

Origin & History

Sino-Japanese compound: 名 (mei) means fame or renowned; 句 (ku) means phrase, verse, or clause. The combination denotes a verse or phrase distinguished by its literary fame and enduring beauty.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical-Modern

Generation: Adult

Social background: Educated