首筋

• Reading: くびすじ
• Romaji: kubisuji
• Kanji breakdown: 首 (shu/kubi) — neck, head; 筋 (kin/suji) — sinew, muscle, line
• Pronunciation: /kɯ.bi.sɯ.dʑi/

Meaning

The nape of the neck; the back or side of the neck.

Refers to the area from the back of the neck to the sides. Used in everyday descriptions, beauty and fashion contexts, and physical sensations. In Japanese culture, the nape of the neck is traditionally considered attractive, and 首筋 shares some of that aesthetic association.

Examples

1. 冷たい風が首筋に当たって寒気がした。 A cold wind hit the back of my neck and I got chills.
2. 首筋に日焼け止めを塗るのを忘れないで。 Don't forget to apply sunscreen to the back of your neck.
3. 緊張すると首筋に汗をかくことがある。 When I'm nervous, I sometimes break out in a sweat on the back of my neck.

Usage Guide

Context: body, beauty, health

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 首 (neck, head) + 筋 (line, sinew, muscle). Literally 'the line of the neck,' referring to the visible tendons and muscles on the neck.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal