鎖

• Reading: くさり
• Romaji: kusari
• Kanji breakdown: 鎖 (sa/kusari) — chain, lock
• Pronunciation: /kɯ.sa.ɾi/

Meaning

Chain. A series of connected links, used both literally and figuratively.

A noun referring to a physical chain of metal links. Also used metaphorically to describe bonds, connections, or constraints that bind someone. Related expressions include 鎖をつなぐ (to chain up) and 鎖を断ち切る (to break free from chains).

Examples

1. 犬が鎖でつながれていた。 The dog was chained up.
2. 門に太い鎖がかかっている。 A thick chain is hanging on the gate.
3. 彼は古い習慣の鎖を断ち切った。 He broke free from the chains of old habits.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, literature, metaphorical speech

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 鎖 combines 金 (metal) with 小 and 貝 elements. Originally from Chinese, it depicts small metal pieces linked together, directly representing the physical object.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal