玄関先 in 30 Sekunden
- 玄関先 (げんかんさき) means doorstep or the area right in front of the entrance.
- It's the outdoor space before entering a house or building.
- Used for deliveries, greetings, and arrivals/departures.
The Japanese word 玄関先 (げんかんさき - genkansaki) refers to the area immediately outside the entrance to a building, specifically the doorstep or the space right in front of the main door. It's a common and practical term used in everyday Japanese conversation when discussing actions or events happening at the entrance of a home, office, or any other establishment.
- Literal Breakdown
- The word is composed of two parts: 玄関 (げんかん - genkan), which means 'entrance hall' or 'foyer,' and 先 (さき - saki), which can mean 'front,' 'ahead,' or 'before.' Thus, 玄関先 literally translates to 'the front of the entrance hall' or 'the place before the entrance.'
- Common Usage Scenarios
- You'll often hear 玄関先 used when someone is:
- Receiving a delivery at the door.
- Greeting or seeing off guests.
- Leaving or arriving at home.
- Discussing where something was left or found.
- Describing an event that happened right at the entrance.
配達員が玄関先に荷物を置いていきました。
お客様が玄関先でお待ちです。
Mastering 玄関先 (げんかんさき - genkansaki) involves understanding its placement and the context of actions happening there. It typically functions as a noun indicating a location. You'll often see it followed by particles like に (ni) to denote location, or で (de) to indicate where an action takes place.
- Sentence Structure Examples
- Subject + は/が + 玄関先 + に/で + Verb
- This is the most common structure. For instance, 「猫が玄関先にいます。」(Neko ga genkansaki ni imasu.) - 'The cat is at the doorstep.'
- Verb Phrase + 玄関先 + に/で
- This structure emphasizes the action occurring at the doorstep. For example, 「傘を玄関先に置きました。」(Kasa o genkansaki ni okimashita.) - 'I placed the umbrella at the doorstep.'
- Illustrative Sentences
- * Recieving guests: 「お客様が玄関先で待っていますので、すぐに案内してください。」(Okyakusama ga genkansaki de matte imasu node, sugu ni annai shite kudasai.) - 'The guests are waiting at the doorstep, so please guide them in immediately.' (Here, で marks the location of waiting.)
- * Deliveries: 「今日の新聞は玄関先に配達されました。」(Kyō no shinbun wa genkansaki ni haitatsu saremashita.) - 'Today's newspaper was delivered to the doorstep.' (Here, に indicates the destination of delivery.)
- * Leaving items: 「忘れ物はありませんか？玄関先に置いておきますね。」(Wasuremono wa arimasen ka? Genkansaki ni oite okimasu ne.) - 'Did you forget anything? I'll leave it at the doorstep for you.' (Here, に shows where the item will be left.)
- * Observing the area: 「玄関先の花がきれいに咲いています。」(Genkansaki no hana ga kirei ni saite imasu.) - 'The flowers at the doorstep are blooming beautifully.' (Here, の connects 玄関先 to 花, indicating flowers belonging to or located at the doorstep.)
You'll encounter 玄関先 (げんかんさき - genkansaki) in a variety of everyday situations in Japan, reflecting its practical meaning of 'doorstep' or 'the area in front of the entrance.' It's a word that bridges the gap between the private space of a home or building and the public outside world.
- Residential Settings
- In homes, 玄関先 is where interactions with the outside world often begin. This includes:
- Receiving deliveries: When a package arrives, the delivery person might say, 「玄関先に置きました。」(Genkansaki ni okimashita.) - 'I've placed it at the doorstep.'
- Greeting visitors: You might welcome guests by saying, 「どうぞ、玄関先までお越しください。」(Dōzo, genkansaki made okoshi kudasai.) - 'Please, come up to the doorstep.'
- Saying goodbye: Similarly, when seeing someone off, you might say, 「玄関先までお見送りします。」(Genkansaki made omiokuri shimasu.) - 'I'll see you off to the doorstep.'
- Children's activities: A parent might tell their child, 「玄関先で遊ばないでください。」(Genkansaki de asobanaide kudasai.) - 'Please don't play at the doorstep.'
- Commercial and Public Spaces
- Businesses and public facilities also utilize this term:
- Shop entrances: A shop owner might instruct staff, 「お客様が来たら、玄関先でお声がけしてください。」(Okyakusama ga kitara, genkansaki de okoegake shite kudasai.) - 'When a customer arrives, please greet them at the entrance.'
- Office buildings: You might see signs or hear announcements like, 「配達物は玄関先にお願いします。」(Haitatsubutsu wa genkansaki ni onegaishimasu.) - 'Please leave deliveries at the entrance.'
- Apartment complexes: Building managers might specify rules regarding the 玄関先, such as keeping it clear of personal belongings.
- Informal Conversations
- In casual chats, people might refer to it when discussing where they left something or saw something:
- 「昨日、玄関先に面白いものが落ちていたよ。」(Kinō, genkansaki ni omoshiroi mono ga ochite ita yo.) - 'Yesterday, I saw an interesting thing lying at the doorstep.'
- 「靴を玄関先に脱いでください。」(Kutsu o genkansaki ni nuide kudasai.) - 'Please take off your shoes at the doorstep.' (Though often the shoes are taken off *before* reaching the genkan itself, this phrase can be used to indicate the area.)
While 玄関先 (げんかんさき - genkansaki) is a straightforward term, learners might sometimes misuse it or confuse it with similar concepts. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Confusing with 玄関 (Genkan)
- The most frequent mistake is conflating 玄関 (genkan) with 玄関先 (genkansaki). 玄関 refers to the entire entrance hall or foyer, which is an indoor space where shoes are typically removed and belongings are stored. 玄関先, on the other hand, is the area *outside* the entrance. Saying 「玄関に荷物を置きました。」(Genkan ni nimotsu o okimashita.) might imply placing it inside the foyer, whereas 「玄関先に置きました。」(Genkansaki ni okimashita.) clearly means outside, on the doorstep.
- Incorrect Particle Usage
- While both に (ni) and で (de) can be used with 玄関先, their meanings differ slightly and can lead to confusion.
- Using で for destination: For instance, saying 「配達は玄関先で受け取ります。」(Haitatsu wa genkansaki de uketorimasu.) is correct, meaning 'I will receive the delivery *at* the doorstep.' However, saying 「荷物を玄関先で置きました。」(Nimotsu o genkansaki de okimashita.) is less natural. It's better to use に for the destination: 「荷物を玄関先に置きました。」(Nimotsu o genkansaki ni okimashita.) - 'I placed the package *at* the doorstep.'
- Overusing に for action: Similarly, while に often indicates where something is placed, using it to describe an action occurring there might feel slightly off. For example, 「玄関先に待っています。」(Genkansaki ni matte imasu.) is understandable, but 「玄関先で待っています。」(Genkansaki de matte imasu.) is more common and natural for 'waiting at the doorstep.'
- Overgeneralization
- Learners might sometimes use 玄関先 when a more general term like 「外」(soto - outside) or 「前」(mae - front) would suffice. While not strictly incorrect, 玄関先 is more specific. For example, if you just mean 'in front of the building' generally, 「建物の前」(tatemono no mae) might be better than 玄関先 unless you are referring to the specific entrance.
- Ignoring Context
- The meaning of 玄関先 is tied to the context of an entrance. Using it to describe an area far from any entrance would be nonsensical. For example, you wouldn't say 「公園の玄関先に座りました。」(Kōen no genkansaki ni suwarimashita.) unless there was a specific, designated entrance area within the park being referred to.
While 玄関先 (げんかんさき - genkansaki) is quite specific, several other words and phrases can be used depending on the exact nuance and context. Understanding these alternatives will enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.
- 玄関 (Genkan)
- Meaning: Entrance hall, foyer.
- Comparison: This is the most common point of confusion. 玄関 is the indoor space where you remove your shoes, whereas 玄関先 is the outdoor area immediately preceding it. You enter the 玄関 *from* the 玄関先.
- Example: 「靴は玄関に置いてください。」(Kutsu wa genkan ni oite kudasai.) - 'Please leave your shoes in the entrance hall.' (Indoor) vs. 「荷物は玄関先に置いてください。」(Nimotsu wa genkansaki ni oite kudasai.) - 'Please leave the package at the doorstep.' (Outdoor)
- Comparison: This is the most common point of confusion. 玄関 is the indoor space where you remove your shoes, whereas 玄関先 is the outdoor area immediately preceding it. You enter the 玄関 *from* the 玄関先.
- 入口 (Iriguchi)
- Meaning: Entrance, way in.
- Comparison: 入口 is a more general term for any entrance, not necessarily tied to the specific cultural context of a Japanese home's 玄関. It can refer to the entrance of a building, a park, a room, etc. It doesn't inherently imply the 'doorstep' area like 玄関先 does.
- Example: 「非常口はこちらの入口です。」(Hijōguchi wa kochira no iriguchi desu.) - 'The emergency exit is this entrance.' (General entrance) vs. 「郵便物は玄関先に届きます。」(Yūbinbutsu wa genkansaki ni todokimasu.) - 'Mail arrives at the doorstep.' (Specific to the entrance area)
- Comparison: 入口 is a more general term for any entrance, not necessarily tied to the specific cultural context of a Japanese home's 玄関. It can refer to the entrance of a building, a park, a room, etc. It doesn't inherently imply the 'doorstep' area like 玄関先 does.
- 軒先 (Nokisaki)
- Meaning: Under the eaves, the front of the house under the eaves.
- Comparison: 軒先 refers specifically to the area beneath the eaves of a roof. While this area might sometimes overlap with or be adjacent to the 玄関先, it's a distinct geographical feature. If the entrance has a prominent overhang, the 軒先 might be where things are placed.
- Example: 「猫が軒先で日向ぼっこをしていた。」(Neko ga nokisaki de hinatabokko o shite ita.) - 'The cat was sunbathing under the eaves.' (Area under the roof overhang)
- Comparison: 軒先 refers specifically to the area beneath the eaves of a roof. While this area might sometimes overlap with or be adjacent to the 玄関先, it's a distinct geographical feature. If the entrance has a prominent overhang, the 軒先 might be where things are placed.
- 戸口 (Toguchi)
- Meaning: Doorway, entrance.
- Comparison: This term is more literary or formal than 玄関 or 入口. It refers to the opening of a door or the entrance itself. It doesn't specifically denote the 'step' area outside.
- Example: 「戸口に立って、外を眺めた。」(Toguchi ni tatte, soto o nagameta.) - 'Standing at the doorway, I gazed outside.' (The opening of the door)
- Comparison: This term is more literary or formal than 玄関 or 入口. It refers to the opening of a door or the entrance itself. It doesn't specifically denote the 'step' area outside.
- 外 (Soto)
- Meaning: Outside.
- Comparison: This is the most general term. While the 玄関先 is technically 'outside,' using 外 is much broader. You would use 外 to refer to anywhere outdoors, not specifically the area in front of an entrance.
- Example: 「外は暑いですね。」(Soto wa atsui desu ne.) - 'It's hot outside, isn't it?' (General outdoor condition)
- Comparison: This is the most general term. While the 玄関先 is technically 'outside,' using 外 is much broader. You would use 外 to refer to anywhere outdoors, not specifically the area in front of an entrance.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The concept of the 玄関 (genkan) and its adjacent 玄関先 (genkansaki) is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, reflecting a strong emphasis on cleanliness, respect for private space, and the polite transition between the outside world and the home. The act of removing shoes at the 玄関 is a fundamental ritual. Historically, the 玄関 was often a more formal space, sometimes used for receiving guests or conducting business, while the 玄関先 might have been where deliveries were left or where people waited briefly. The specific design and usage of the 玄関先 can vary greatly depending on the type of building, from a simple apartment doorstep to the grand entrance of a traditional inn or a modern office building.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing 'genkan' too quickly or blending it into 'saki'.
- Omitting the final 'n' sound in 'genkan'.
- Incorrect vowel sounds, especially in the 'e' of 'gen' or the 'a' sounds.
- Misplacing the stress on a different syllable.
- Pronouncing 'saki' as 'sake'.
- Adding an unnecessary 'u' sound after 'ki'.
- Making the 'k' sound too hard or too soft.
- Pronouncing 'gen' like 'gain'.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Recognizing 玄関先 in text is generally straightforward once the meaning of 玄関 and 先 is understood. Its usage in context is usually clear, making it relatively easy to comprehend in reading materials aimed at learners.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Particles に and で for location
荷物を玄関先に置きました。(Placement destination) / お客様が玄関先で待っています。(Location of action)
The particle の for possession or description
玄関先の花がきれいです。(The flowers *at* the doorstep are beautiful.)
The particle まで for indicating extent or destination
玄関先までお見送りします。(I will see you off *up to* the doorstep.)
The particle から for indicating origin
猫が玄関先から入ってきた。(The cat came in *from* the doorstep.)
Using verbs like 置く (to place), 待つ (to wait), 掃除する (to clean) with location nouns
玄関先に置く, 玄関先で待つ, 玄関先を掃除する.
Beispiele nach Niveau
ドアの前。
In front of the door.
Simple phrase indicating location.
ここ。
Here.
Basic demonstrative pronoun.
荷物。
Package.
Noun for object.
来る。
Come.
Basic verb.
行く。
Go.
Basic verb.
玄関。
Entrance.
Noun for entrance area.
外。
Outside.
Noun for outside.
家。
House.
Noun for house.
配達は玄関先に置かれました。
The delivery was placed at the doorstep.
Passive voice for delivery context.
お客様が玄関先で待っています。
The guest is waiting at the doorstep.
Using で to indicate location of action (waiting).
傘を玄関先に置きました。
I put the umbrella at the doorstep.
Using に to indicate destination/location of placement.
猫が玄関先で寝ています。
The cat is sleeping at the doorstep.
Using で for location of action (sleeping).
玄関先の花がきれいです。
The flowers at the doorstep are pretty.
Using の to connect location and object (flowers at the doorstep).
忘れ物を玄関先に置きました。
I left a forgotten item at the doorstep.
Using に for placement.
玄関先で靴を脱ぎます。
I take off my shoes at the doorstep.
Using で for location of action (taking off shoes).
子供が玄関先で遊んでいます。
The child is playing at the doorstep.
Using で for location of action (playing).
配達員が荷物を玄関先に置いていきました。
The delivery person left the package at the doorstep.
Common scenario for deliveries.
お客様が玄関先でお待ちですので、すぐにお迎えに行ってください。
The guest is waiting at the doorstep, so please go to meet them immediately.
Emphasizes politeness in greeting.
雨が降っているので、傘は玄関先に置いておきましょう。
It's raining, so let's leave the umbrella at the doorstep.
Practical advice for weather.
犬が玄関先で吠えています。誰か来たのかもしれません。
The dog is barking at the doorstep. Someone might have come.
Observation of animal behavior indicating a visitor.
この郵便物は、どなた宛ですか？玄関先に名前が書いてあります。
Who is this mail addressed to? The name is written at the doorstep.
Inquiring about mail and its placement.
子供たちが玄関先で泥団子を作っていた。
The children were making mud pies at the doorstep.
Describing children's activities.
新しい自転車を玄関先に置くと、邪魔になるかもしれません。
If we put the new bicycle at the doorstep, it might get in the way.
Considering practicality and obstruction.
お祭りの準備で、提灯を玄関先に飾りました。
For the festival preparations, we decorated the doorstep with lanterns.
Cultural context of decoration.
宅配便のドライバーは、受取人の不在時には玄関先に荷物を置くよう指示されていることが多い。
Delivery drivers are often instructed to leave packages at the doorstep when the recipient is absent.
Describing common delivery protocols.
玄関先での立ち話は、近所付き合いの informal な一場面を形成することがある。
Casual chats at the doorstep can form an informal aspect of neighborhood relations.
Sociological observation of social interactions.
雨天のため、イベントの受付は玄関先ではなく、建物のロビーに変更されました。
Due to rain, the event registration was changed from the doorstep to the building's lobby.
Contrasting locations due to weather.
古い家では、玄関先から続く土間が、現代の玄関ホールのような役割を果たしていた。
In old houses, the earthen floor extending from the doorstep served a role similar to a modern entrance hall.
Historical architectural context.
玄関先を常に清潔に保つことは、住人のマナーとして重視される。
Keeping the doorstep consistently clean is emphasized as a matter of etiquette for residents.
Cultural emphasis on cleanliness and etiquette.
訪問販売員は、玄関先で丁寧に対応するよう心がけている。
Door-to-door salespeople strive to respond politely at the doorstep.
Professional conduct in sales.
子供の安全のため、玄関先には危険なものを置かないように注意が必要です。
For children's safety, care must be taken not to place dangerous items at the doorstep.
Safety precautions.
庭の手入れが終わったら、園芸用具は玄関先に片付けてください。
After finishing garden maintenance, please put away the gardening tools at the doorstep.
Organizing tools after use.
現代の都市生活では、居住空間の「外部」と「内部」の境界線である玄関先が、コミュニケーションの場としても機能する多義的な空間となりつつある。
In modern urban life, the doorstep, which serves as the boundary between the 'exterior' and 'interior' of a living space, is becoming a multifaceted space that also functions as a site for communication.
Sociological and architectural commentary on the role of the doorstep.
かつては、訪問客を玄関先で迎え、簡単な挨拶を交わすのが一般的であったが、近年では直接室内へ招き入れることが多くなった。
Previously, it was common to greet visitors at the doorstep and exchange brief greetings, but in recent years, it has become more common to invite them directly inside.
Observing shifts in social customs.
玄関先での一時的な放置は、防犯上の観点から推奨されない行為であり、配達業者には細心の注意が求められる。
Temporary abandonment at the doorstep is an act not recommended from a crime prevention standpoint, and delivery operators are required to exercise the utmost caution.
Discussing security implications.
その家の玄関先には、季節ごとに手入れされた美しい植栽が施されており、訪れる者の心を和ませる。
At the entrance of that house, beautiful landscaping meticulously maintained each season provides a soothing effect on visitors.
Describing aesthetic appeal and horticultural care.
玄関先という限られた空間に、その家の住人の個性やセンスが反映されることは少なくない。
The personality and taste of the household's residents are often reflected in the limited space of the doorstep.
Personal expression through home decor.
近年の共働き世帯の増加に伴い、玄関先での短時間の受け渡しが増加傾向にある。
With the recent increase in dual-income households, brief exchanges at the doorstep are showing an upward trend.
Socioeconomic trends impacting daily life.
玄関先での不要物の放置は、景観を損なうだけでなく、衛生上の問題を引き起こす可能性もある。
Leaving unwanted items at the doorstep not only spoils the view but can also cause hygiene problems.
Consequences of neglecting the doorstep area.
玄関先を彩る季節の装飾は、地域住民の間のコミュニケーションを円滑にする触媒となり得る。
Seasonal decorations adorning the doorstep can act as a catalyst for smoother communication among local residents.
Social cohesion through shared aesthetics.
玄関先という、公私の境界線上に位置する物理的空間は、社会的な儀礼、個人的なアイデンティティの表象、そして日常的な実用性が交錯する、極めて示唆に富んだ領域である。
The physical space known as the doorstep, situated on the boundary between the public and private, is an extremely suggestive domain where social rituals, the representation of personal identity, and daily practicality intersect.
Philosophical and semiotic analysis of the doorstep's significance.
その建築様式において、玄関先は単なる通過点ではなく、居住空間の「顔」として、訪れる者に対して住人の美的感覚や社会的地位を暗に伝える役割を担っていた。
In that architectural style, the doorstep was not merely a passage point but served as the 'face' of the living space, implicitly conveying the resident's aesthetic sense and social status to visitors.
Architectural history and symbolic meaning.
玄関先における贈答品の交換は、地域社会における相互扶助の精神を具現化する伝統的な慣習であり、その変容は社会構造の変化を反映している。
The exchange of gifts at the doorstep is a traditional custom embodying the spirit of mutual aid within the community, and its transformation reflects changes in social structure.
Anthropological perspective on gift-giving traditions.
現代のデジタル化されたコミュニケーション環境下においても、物理的な玄関先での対面によるやり取りは、人間関係の深化において依然として不可欠な要素である。
Even in today's digitized communication environment, face-to-face interactions at the physical doorstep remain an indispensable element in deepening human relationships.
Juxtaposition of digital and physical interaction.
法的な観点から見れば、玄関先は私有地と公道との境界線上に位置するため、その利用に関する権利と義務には複雑な法的解釈が伴うことがある。
From a legal perspective, as the doorstep is situated on the boundary between private property and the public road, complex legal interpretations may accompany the rights and obligations concerning its use.
Legal considerations of property boundaries.
文学作品における玄関先は、しばしば登場人物の内面的な葛藤や、外界との隔絶、あるいは新たな始まりの象徴として描かれる。
In literary works, the doorstep is often depicted as a symbol of a character's internal conflict, isolation from the outside world, or a new beginning.
Literary symbolism and thematic representation.
玄関先での日常的なやり取りは、社会学的なフィールドワークにおいて、地域コミュニティの結束度や住民間の相互作用を分析するための貴重なデータソースとなり得る。
Everyday interactions at the doorstep can serve as a valuable data source for sociological fieldwork, enabling the analysis of community cohesion and inter-resident interactions.
Methodology in social science research.
その都市計画においては、玄関先空間の公共性・私有性の曖昧さを考慮し、住民の利便性と安全性を両立させるための新たなデザインアプローチが模索されている。
In that urban planning, considering the ambiguity of the public-private nature of doorstep spaces, new design approaches are being explored to balance resident convenience and safety.
Urban design and planning concepts.
Synonyme
Gegenteile
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— To place something at the doorstep.
配達員が荷物を玄関先に置きました。
— To wait at the doorstep.
お客様が玄関先でお待ちです。
— Up to the doorstep; to the doorstep.
玄関先までお見送りします。
— Cleaning the doorstep area.
玄関先の掃除は私の担当です。
— To decorate the doorstep.
お正月に玄関先に飾りをつけました。
— To enter from the doorstep.
猫が玄関先から入ってきた。
— To make the doorstep area clean.
玄関先をきれいにしましょう。
— Please leave it at the doorstep.
配達員さん、荷物を玄関先に置いてください。
— Handling or interaction at the doorstep.
訪問販売の対応は玄関先までです。
— Small stones at the doorstep.
玄関先の小石を並べ替えた。
Wird oft verwechselt mit
玄関 refers to the indoor entrance hall where shoes are removed, while 玄関先 is the outdoor area immediately in front of the entrance.
入口 is a general term for 'entrance,' whereas 玄関先 specifically denotes the doorstep area.
軒先 refers to the area under the eaves, which may or may not coincide with the 玄関先.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To have a brief, casual chat at the doorstep, often with a neighbor or visitor, without inviting them fully inside.
近所の人と玄関先で立ち話をした。
Informal— To not let someone inside the house, often maintaining a polite distance at the doorstep.
以前は玄関先から人を入れないのが礼儀とされていた。
Neutral/Slightly Formal— To arrange to meet someone specifically at the doorstep.
友達と玄関先で待ち合わせることになった。
Neutral— The doorstep area becomes lively, perhaps due to many visitors or deliveries.
お盆休みは、玄関先が親戚の出入りで賑わっていた。
Neutral— To sweep and clean the doorstep area, often done as a ritualistic act of purification or preparation.
年末に玄関先を掃き清めた。
Neutral/Slightly Formal— To turn back or leave right at the doorstep, often without entering.
約束の時間に遅れたので、玄関先で引き返した。
Neutral— To speak loudly at the doorstep, which can be considered impolite or disruptive.
玄関先で大声で話さないでください。
Neutral— To escort someone to the doorstep when they are leaving.
お客様を玄関先まで送りました。
Neutral— The doorstep area becomes messy or cluttered.
子供たちが遊んだ後、玄関先が散らかっていた。
Neutral— To stop at the doorstep, perhaps hesitating or observing.
彼は玄関先で足を止め、しばらく考え込んだ。
NeutralLeicht verwechselbar
Both relate to the entrance of a building.
玄関 is the indoor foyer where shoes are removed. 玄関先 is the outdoor area directly in front of the entrance. Think of 玄関先 as the 'threshold zone' outside, and 玄関 as the 'transition zone' inside.
荷物は<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先に</span>置きました。(I left the package at the doorstep.) vs. 靴は<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関に</span>置きました。(I left the shoes in the entrance hall.)
Both refer to points of entry.
入口 is a general term for any entrance (e.g., park entrance, building entrance). 玄関先 is specifically the doorstep area of a house or building entrance, implying a more immediate outdoor space.
公園の<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>入口</span>はどこですか？ (Where is the park's entrance?) 配達は<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先</span>にお願いします。(Please leave the delivery at the doorstep.)
Both can refer to areas near the entrance, often outdoors.
軒先 specifically refers to the area under the eaves of a roof. While this might be part of the 玄関先, it's defined by the roof overhang. 玄関先 is the broader term for the immediate area in front of the door.
猫が<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>軒先</span>で寝ていた。(The cat was sleeping under the eaves.) vs. 傘を<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先に</span>置いた。(I put the umbrella at the doorstep.)
A porch is often an outdoor area at the entrance, similar to 玄関先.
ポーチ is a loanword and often implies a more substantial structure, possibly covered. 玄関先 is a more general term for the doorstep area, whether covered or not, and is the native Japanese term. In many cases, they are interchangeable when referring to the doorstep area.
雨なので<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>ポーチ</span>に傘を置きました。(Since it was raining, I put the umbrella on the porch.) vs. 荷物は<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先に</span>置いてください。(Please leave the package at the doorstep.)
Both relate to the door and entrance.
戸口 is a more formal or literary term for 'doorway' or 'entrance,' referring to the opening itself. 玄関先 refers to the immediate outdoor space in front of that doorway.
彼は<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>戸口</span>に立っていた。(He was standing at the doorway.) vs. 訪問者は<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先で</span>待つように言われた。(Visitors were told to wait at the doorstep.)
Satzmuster
玄関先に + [noun] + が/は + あります/います。
傘が<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先に</span>あります。(Kasa ga <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>genkansaki ni</span> arimasu.) - An umbrella is at the doorstep.
玄関先で + [verb] + います/ます。
猫が<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先で</span>寝ています。(Neko ga <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>genkansaki de</span> nete imasu.) - The cat is sleeping at the doorstep.
[Noun]を + 玄関先に + 置きました。
荷物を<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先に</span>置きました。(Nimotsu o <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>genkansaki ni</span> okimashita.) - I placed the package at the doorstep.
[Noun]が + 玄関先で + [verb] + ています。
子供たちが<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先で</span>遊んでいます。(Kodomo-tachi ga <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>genkansaki de</span> asonde imasu.) - The children are playing at the doorstep.
玄関先まで + [verb phrase]
お客様を<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先まで</span>お見送りします。(Okyakusama o <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>genkansaki made</span> omiokuri shimasu.) - I will see the guest off to the doorstep.
[Noun]は + 玄関先での + 受け取りになります。
配達物は<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先での</span>受け取りになります。(Haitatsubutsu wa <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>genkansaki de no</span> uketori ni narimasu.) - Deliveries will be received at the doorstep.
玄関先の + [noun] + が + [description]
<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先の</span>植栽が美しく手入れされている。( <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>Genkansaki no</span> shokusai ga utsukushiku teire sarete iru.) - The planting at the doorstep is beautifully maintained.
玄関先という + [noun phrase] + は + [description]
<span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>玄関先という</span>空間は、公私の境界線上に位置する。( <span style='background-color: #a78bfa; color: white; padding: 0.2em 0.4em; border-radius: 0.25em;'>Genkansaki to iu</span> kūkan wa, kōshi no kyōkaisen-jō ni ichi suru.) - The space called the doorstep is located on the boundary between public and private.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Common
-
Using 玄関 (genkan) when referring to the doorstep.
→
Using 玄関先 (genkansaki).
玄関 refers to the indoor entrance hall. 玄関先 is the outdoor area immediately in front of the entrance. For example, packages are left at the 玄関先, not inside the 玄関.
-
Using the wrong particle: '玄関先で置きました' (genkansaki de okimashita).
→
'玄関先に置きました' (genkansaki ni okimashita).
When indicating the destination or location where something is placed, particle に is generally preferred. で is used for the location of an action (e.g., 玄関先で待つ - to wait at the doorstep).
-
Confusing 玄関先 with 入口 (iriguchi).
→
Using 玄関先 for the doorstep area and 入口 for a general entrance.
入口 is a broader term for any entrance. 玄関先 specifically refers to the immediate outdoor area of a house or building entrance.
-
Thinking 玄関先 means the entire front of the house.
→
Understanding 玄関先 refers only to the area directly in front of the main entrance.
玄関先 is a specific, limited area. It does not encompass the whole front of the building or yard.
-
Overusing 玄関先 when a simpler term like 'outside' (外 - soto) would suffice.
→
Using 玄関先 when the context specifically implies the doorstep area.
While the doorstep is outside, using 玄関先 adds specificity. If you just mean 'outside' in general, 外 is more appropriate.
Tipps
Distinguish from 玄関
Always remember that 玄関先 is the OUTSIDE area, while 玄関 is the INSIDE entrance hall. This distinction is crucial for correct usage.
Master Particles に and で
Use に when indicating where something is placed or delivered (destination), and で when describing an action happening at that location (e.g., waiting, playing).
Visualize the Space
Picture a doormat and the immediate area around your front door. This mental image will help you recall and use 玄関先 accurately.
Cultural Nuance
Understand that the 玄関先 is part of the Japanese cultural emphasis on cleanliness and politeness at the boundary between public and private spaces.
Listen Actively
Pay attention to how native speakers use 玄関先 in dramas, movies, or real-life conversations. Notice the context and the surrounding words.
Use in Sentences
Actively try to incorporate 玄関先 into your own sentences when describing your home or places you visit. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.
Compare with Similar Words
Learn the subtle differences between 玄関先, 玄関, 入口, and 軒先 to choose the most precise word for the situation.
Break Down the Word
Remembering that 玄関 means 'entrance hall' and 先 means 'front' or 'ahead' can help solidify the meaning of 玄関先 as 'the front of the entrance hall'.
Create Mnemonics
Develop personal memory aids, like associating it with a 'Genk' person waiting at the 'key' of your door, to help recall the word and its meaning.
Practice Pronunciation
Focus on the stress pattern (げんかんさき) and clear pronunciation of each syllable to sound more natural.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Imagine a 'Genk' (like 'gentle') person standing 'kan' (on) the 'sa' (sad) 'ki' (key) of your door, right at the doorstep. They are waiting for you there, at the 玄関先.
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a doormat with the Japanese characters 玄関先 written on it, placed just outside a traditional Japanese house door. The mat signifies the area 'at the doorstep.'
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to use 玄関先 in three sentences describing your own home's entrance or a place you visit regularly. For example, 'My apartment's 玄関先 is very small,' or 'The package was left at the 玄関先 of the library.'
Wortherkunft
The word 玄関先 (げんかんさき) is a compound word formed by combining 玄関 (げんかん) and 先 (さき). 玄関 (げんかん) itself is derived from Chinese characters: 門 (mon - gate) and 關 (kan - barrier, pass). It originally referred to a gate or a pass, but in Japanese, it evolved to mean the entrance hall or foyer of a building, a place where one removes their shoes before entering the main living area. 先 (さき) is a native Japanese word that can mean 'front,' 'ahead,' 'before,' or 'tip.' When combined with 玄関, it specifies the area that is 'before' or 'in front of' the 玄関.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The front/area before the entrance hall.
JaponicKultureller Kontext
When discussing the 玄関先, it's important to remember its role in maintaining cleanliness and order. Avoid suggesting that it's a place for clutter or mess, as this goes against the cultural norm of respecting this transitional space.
In English-speaking cultures, the term 'doorstep' or 'front porch' serves a similar function, indicating the area immediately outside the main entrance. However, the cultural emphasis on removing shoes and the specific ritualistic nature of the 玄関 area in Japan makes the Japanese concept slightly distinct.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Receiving deliveries
- 玄関先に置いてください。
- 配達は玄関先で受け取ります。
- 荷物が玄関先に届きました。
Greeting visitors
- 玄関先でお待ちください。
- 玄関先までお迎えに上がります。
- お客様が玄関先で待っています。
Leaving or arriving home
- 玄関先に靴を置く。
- 玄関先から家に入る。
- 玄関先で忘れ物がないか確認する。
Describing the area
- 玄関先がきれいだ。
- 玄関先の花が咲いている。
- 玄関先の様子を見る。
General interactions
- 玄関先で立ち話をする。
- 玄関先でちょっと待ってください。
- 玄関先で用事を済ませる。
Gesprächseinstiege
"Have you ever had packages left at your doorstep in Japan? What was it like?"
"How do you keep your entrance area clean and welcoming?"
"What kind of decorations do you usually put at your entrance?"
"Do you think the concept of the doorstep is important in Japanese culture?"
"What are some common items you see or leave at the doorstep?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe the entrance to your home. What do you see at the doorstep?
Imagine you are expecting an important delivery. Where would you ask the driver to leave it, and why?
Write a short story about a chance encounter that happened at someone's doorstep.
Reflect on the cultural significance of the doorstep in your own country. How does it compare to the Japanese 玄関先?
Describe a time you waited at a doorstep for someone. What were your thoughts and feelings?
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 Fragen玄関 (genkan) refers to the indoor entrance hall where you remove your shoes. 玄関先 (genkansaki) is the area immediately outside the entrance, on the doorstep. Think of it as the transition zone: you step from the outside onto the 玄関先, then into the 玄関, and finally into the house.
Yes, it can be used for houses, apartments, shops, offices, and any building with a distinct entrance. However, it's most commonly associated with residential entrances.
Commonly, you'll find doormats, potted plants, or temporary items like packages awaiting pickup or delivery. People might wait there briefly, greet visitors, or say goodbye.
Generally, it's acceptable for deliveries or if you're expecting someone. However, leaving clutter or personal belongings unattended for long periods might be considered impolite or untidy, depending on the context and neighborhood.
It's pronounced 'gen-kan-sa-ki'. The stress is on the 'sa' syllable: げんかんさき (genkansaki).
The main cultural emphasis is on cleanliness and order. It's seen as the 'face' of the home, so keeping it tidy is important. It also signifies the boundary between the outside world and private space.
No, 玄関先 specifically refers to the area directly in front of the main entrance, not the entire front facade of the house. For that, you might use terms like 建物の正面 (tatemono no shōmen - the front of the building).
You typically use に (ni) to indicate the destination or location where something is placed (e.g., 玄関先に置く - to place at the doorstep), or で (de) to indicate the location where an action takes place (e.g., 玄関先で待つ - to wait at the doorstep).
It's a neutral word used in everyday conversation. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the sentence structure and surrounding vocabulary.
The closest English equivalents are 'doorstep,' 'threshold,' or 'in front of the entrance.' 'Porch' can also be similar, especially if it's an uncovered step area.
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Summary
玄関先 (げんかんさき) specifically refers to the doorstep or the immediate outdoor area in front of an entrance, distinct from the indoor entrance hall (玄関). It's a practical term for everyday interactions at the threshold.
- 玄関先 (げんかんさき) means doorstep or the area right in front of the entrance.
- It's the outdoor space before entering a house or building.
- Used for deliveries, greetings, and arrivals/departures.
Distinguish from 玄関
Always remember that 玄関先 is the OUTSIDE area, while 玄関 is the INSIDE entrance hall. This distinction is crucial for correct usage.
Master Particles に and で
Use に when indicating where something is placed or delivered (destination), and で when describing an action happening at that location (e.g., waiting, playing).
Visualize the Space
Picture a doormat and the immediate area around your front door. This mental image will help you recall and use 玄関先 accurately.
Cultural Nuance
Understand that the 玄関先 is part of the Japanese cultural emphasis on cleanliness and politeness at the boundary between public and private spaces.
Verwandte Inhalte
Dieses Wort in anderen Sprachen
Mehr home Wörter
上に
B1Auf; über. Wird für die physische Position verwendet.
不在
B1Abwesend; nicht anwesend.
手頃な
B1Erschwinglich, angemessen (Preis). Ein Preis, der nicht zu hoch ist und den man sich leicht leisten kann. Bsp.: Dieses Telefon ist erschwinglich.
お先に
B1Excuse me for going first; said when leaving before others.
仲介
B1Vermittlung oder Agentur, oft im Zusammenhang mit Immobilien oder Geschäften.
あっ
B1Ah! ; ein Ausruf plötzlicher Erkenntnis oder Überraschung. Es wird verwendet, wenn man etwas bemerkt oder jemanden erkennt.
エアコン
A2Das Wort 'エアコン' steht für Klimaanlage, die in Japan sowohl zum Kühlen als auch zum Heizen verwendet wird.
冷暖房
B1Der Begriff <mark>冷暖房</mark> (reidanbō) bezeichnet ein kombiniertes Heiz- und Klimaanlagensystem für einen Raum oder ein Gebäude.
風通しの良い
B1Gut belüftet; luftig. Beschreibt einen Raum mit gutem Luftzug.
～可
A2Ein Suffix, das 'erlaubt' oder 'gestattet' bedeutet. Es wird häufig auf Schildern und in offiziellen Dokumenten verwendet.
