拍手

• Reading: はくしゅ
• Romaji: hakushu
• Kanji breakdown: 拍 (haku) — clap, beat; 手 (shu) — hand
• Pronunciation: /ha.kɯ.ɕɯ/

Meaning

Applause; clapping hands. The act of clapping to show approval or appreciation.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (拍手する). Used at performances, speeches, ceremonies, and congratulatory moments. Common expressions: 拍手を送る (to give applause), 拍手喝采 (thunderous applause), 大きな拍手 (big round of applause). In Japanese culture, rhythmic clapping called 手拍子 (tebyoushi) is common at festivals and concerts.

Examples

1. コンサートの最後に観客が大きな拍手を送った。 At the end of the concert, the audience gave a big round of applause.
2. 優勝者が発表されると会場中が拍手した。 When the winner was announced, the entire venue burst into applause.
3. スピーチが終わると温かい拍手が起きた。 When the speech ended, warm applause broke out.

Usage Guide

Context: performances, ceremonies, sports

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Compound of 拍 (haku, to clap/beat) and 手 (shu, hand). Together, 'beating hands' — the physical act of striking palms together in applause.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal