地面 en 30 secondes
- A fundamental noun for the earth's surface.
- Used for walking, building, and describing outdoor environments.
- Often paired with particles like が, を, and に.
- Distinguished from 土 (soil) and 床 (floor).
The Japanese word 地面 (じめん - jimen) translates directly to 'ground' in English. It refers to the surface of the earth that we walk on, stand on, or that forms the foundation of things. It's a very common and fundamental word used in everyday conversations and writing.
- Surface of the Earth
- This is the most basic meaning. When you talk about what's under your feet, you're talking about the 地面.
- Foundation or Base
- It can also refer to the base upon which something is built or rests.
- Land or Soil
- In some contexts, it can imply the soil or land itself, especially in contrast to water or air.
雨が降って、地面が濡れています。(Ame ga futte, jimen ga nurete imasu.)
公園の地面は子供たちが遊ぶのに安全です。(Kōen no jimen wa kodomo-tachi ga asobu no ni anzen desu.)
- Everyday Scenarios
- You'll hear this when talking about gardening (digging into the ground), construction (laying foundations on the ground), sports played on fields (the ground of the stadium), or even just describing the weather (a muddy ground). It's a foundational word for describing the physical environment around us.
新しい家は地面を固めてから建てられます。(Atarashii ie wa jimen o katamete kara tateraremasu.)
地面 (じめん - jimen) is a noun and is used in sentences just like 'ground' in English. It can be the subject, object, or part of a prepositional phrase. Pay attention to particles like が (ga), を (o), and に (ni) which will indicate its grammatical role.
- As a Subject
- When the ground is the focus of the action or state.
地面が凍っています。(Jimen ga kōtte imasu.)
- As an Object
- When an action is performed upon the ground.
彼らは地面を掘りました。(Karera wa jimen o horimashita.)
- With Location Particles
- Indicating a location or where something is.
猫は地面の上に寝ています。(Neko wa jimen no ue ni nete imasu.)
子供たちは地面を走り回っています。(Kodomo-tachi wa jimen o hashirimawatte imasu.)
- Describing State
- To describe the condition of the ground.
昨日の嵐で地面がぬかるんでいます。(Kinō no arashi de jimen ga nukarunde imasu.)
You'll encounter 地面 (じめん - jimen) in a wide variety of everyday situations. It's a very practical word that describes the physical world around us. Here are some common contexts:
- Weather Reports and Discussions
- When talking about rain, snow, or dryness, the condition of the ground is often mentioned. For example, 'The ground is dry' (地面が乾いている - jimen ga kawaite iru) or 'The ground is covered in snow' (地面が雪で覆われている - jimen ga yuki de ōwarete iru).
大雨の後、地面は水浸しになった。(Ōame no ato, jimen wa mizutashi ni natta.)
- Gardening and Agriculture
- Farmers and gardeners constantly refer to the 'ground' when discussing soil quality, planting, or irrigation. Phrases like 'digging the ground' (地面を掘る - jimen o horu) or 'seeds planted in the ground' (地面に植えられた種 - jimen ni uerareta tane) are common.
この地面は作物を育てるのに適しています。(Kono jimen wa sakumotsu o sodateru no ni tekishite imasu.)
- Construction and Infrastructure
- When building anything, the ground is the foundation. Discussions about foundations, excavation, or laying roads will use this term. 'Strengthening the ground' (地面を強化する - jimen o kyōka suru) is a typical phrase.
橋の建設には強固な地面が必要です。(Hashi no kensetsu ni wa kyōko na jimen ga hitsuyō desu.)
- Sports and Recreation
- Fields for soccer, baseball, or even just parks for picnics have 'ground'. Describing the state of a sports field, like 'the ground is hard' (地面が硬い - jimen ga katai) or 'the ground is uneven' (地面がでこぼこだ - jimen ga dekoboko da), uses this word.
サッカーの試合は、地面の状態が悪いため中止された。(Sakkā no shiai wa, jimen no jōtai ga warui tame chūshi sareta.)
While 地面 (じめん - jimen) is a straightforward word, learners might sometimes confuse it with similar concepts or use it in slightly unnatural ways. Here are a few common pitfalls:
- Confusing with 土 (tsuchi)
- The word 土 (つち - tsuchi) also means 'earth' or 'soil'. While related, 地面 (jimen) specifically refers to the surface you walk on, the ground as a whole. 土 (tsuchi) often refers to the material itself, like 'a handful of soil' (一握りの土 - hitotsumi no tsuchi) or 'planting in the soil' (土に植える - tsuchi ni ueru). You might say 'the ground is hard' (地面が硬い - jimen ga katai), but if you're talking about the quality of the soil for planting, you might say 'this soil is good' (この土は良い - kono tsuchi wa yoi).
間違った例：この土は歩きにくい。(Machigatta rei: Kono tsuchi wa arukinikui.)
正しい例：この地面は歩きにくい。(Tadashii rei: Kono jimen wa arukinikui.)
- Overusing particles
- While 地面 (jimen) can be the subject (using が) or object (using を), learners might mistakenly add particles where they aren't needed or use the wrong one. For instance, saying 'on the ground' is usually 地面に (jimen ni) or 地面の上 (jimen no ue), not just 地面で (jimen de) unless it's indicating a location for an action. However, 地面を (jimen o) is used when an action is performed across or on the surface, like walking or digging.
間違った例：子供が地面で走っている。(Machigatta rei: Kodomo ga jimen de hashitte iru.)
正しい例：子供が地面を走っている。(Tadashii rei: Kodomo ga jimen o hashitte iru.)
- Literal Translation from English
- Sometimes, English speakers might try to directly translate phrases. For example, 'ground floor' in a building isn't typically translated as 地面の階 (jimen no kai). Instead, you'd use words like 一階 (ikkai) for the first floor. While 地面 means ground, its usage is context-dependent.
Understanding the nuances between 地面 (じめん - jimen) and similar words is key to using them correctly. Here's a comparison:
- 地面 (じめん - jimen) vs. 土 (つち - tsuchi)
- 地面 (jimen) refers to the surface of the earth, the ground as a whole, what you walk on. It's a broader term for the physical plane. 土 (tsuchi) specifically refers to soil or dirt, the material that makes up the ground. You dig into the 土 that is part of the 地面. Example: 'The ground is hard' (地面が硬い - jimen ga katai). 'This soil is good for plants' (この土は植物に適している - kono tsuchi wa shokubutsu ni tekishite iru).
- 地面 (じめん - jimen) vs. 土地 (とち - tochi)
- 地面 (jimen) is the physical surface. 土地 (tochi) refers to land, especially in terms of ownership, area, or use (like real estate). You might buy 土地, and then build on its 地面. Example: 'A large plot of land' (広い土地 - hiroi tochi). 'The ground of this park is beautiful' (この公園の地面は美しい - kono kōen no jimen wa utsukushii).
- 地面 (じめん - jimen) vs. 床 (ゆか - yuka)
- 地面 (jimen) is the outdoor ground, the earth's surface. 床 (yuka) refers to the floor inside a building. Example: 'Walking on the ground' (地面を歩く - jimen o aruku). 'Cleaning the floor' (床を掃除する - yuka o sōji suru).
- 地面 (じめん - jimen) vs. 地表 (ちひょう - chihyō)
- 地面 (jimen) is a more common, everyday term. 地表 (chihyō) is a more formal or scientific term for the Earth's surface, often used in geology or geography. It's essentially a synonym but less frequently used in casual conversation. Example: 'The ground temperature' (地面の温度 - jimen no ondo) vs. 'The Earth's surface temperature' (地表の温度 - chihyō no ondo).
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The kanji '面' (men) not only means 'surface' but also 'face'. So, you can think of 地面 as the 'face of the earth'. This is a common way compound words are formed in Japanese, combining characters to create new meanings.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing 'ji' too hard like 'jee'.
- Not pronouncing the final 'n' clearly.
- Confusing it with similar sounding words.
Niveau de difficulté
At A2 level, reading <strong>地面</strong> is straightforward. It appears in simple texts describing environments, weather, or actions. The kanji combination is intuitive, and its meaning is usually clear from context. Learners will encounter it frequently, aiding recognition.
Writing <strong>地面</strong> is also relatively easy for A2 learners. They can use it in simple sentences to describe what they see or do. The challenge lies in using the correct particles (が, を, に) and understanding when to use it versus similar words like 土.
Speaking with <strong>地面</strong> is common. Learners can use it to describe their surroundings or actions. The pronunciation is not difficult. The main focus is on natural sentence construction and particle usage.
Listening for <strong>地面</strong> is generally easy due to its commonality. It's frequently used in everyday conversations, weather reports, and descriptions. Learners at A2 should be able to pick it out in most contexts.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Using particles with nouns (が, を, に)
The particle が is often used to mark the subject of a sentence, like '地面が凍っています' (The ground is frozen). The particle を marks the direct object or the space traversed, as in '地面を歩く' (to walk on the ground). The particle に indicates location, such as '地面に座る' (to sit on the ground).
Adjective + Noun / Noun + の + Noun
Describing the ground: '硬い地面' (katai jimen - hard ground). Specifying the ground: '公園の地面' (kōen no jimen - the ground of the park).
Verb + の + は + Adjective/Verb
Nominalizing an action involving the ground: '地面を歩くのは気持ちいい' (Jimen o aruku no wa kimochi ii - Walking on the ground feels good).
Cause and Effect (ので, から)
Explaining a condition of the ground: '雨が降ったので、地面がぬかるんでいます' (Ame ga futta node, jimen ga nukarunde imasu - Because it rained, the ground is muddy).
Purpose (ために)
Describing an action related to the ground's condition: '家を建てるために、地面を平らにしました' (Ie o tateru tame ni, jimen o taira ni shimashita - To build a house, we leveled the ground).
Exemples par niveau
これは地面です。
This is ground.
This is a basic identification sentence.
地面が濡れています。
The ground is wet.
Using the particle が to indicate the subject.
地面は茶色です。
The ground is brown.
Describing the color of the ground.
地面に石があります。
There are stones on the ground.
Using に to indicate location.
地面は冷たいです。
The ground is cold.
Describing a physical property.
地面が乾いています。
The ground is dry.
Describing the state of the ground.
犬が地面を走る。
A dog runs on the ground.
Using を to indicate movement across a surface.
地面に座ります。
I will sit on the ground.
Indicating the action of sitting on the ground.
公園の地面は柔らかいです。
The ground in the park is soft.
Using の to connect 'park' and 'ground'.
地面に子供たちが遊んでいます。
Children are playing on the ground.
Using に to indicate the location of the action.
雨が降ったので、地面がぬかるんでいます。
Because it rained, the ground is muddy.
Using ので to show cause and effect.
新しい家を建てるために、地面を平らにしました。
To build a new house, we leveled the ground.
Using ために to indicate purpose.
地面に大きな穴が開いています。
There is a big hole in the ground.
Describing a feature of the ground.
裸足で地面を歩くのは気持ちいいです。
Walking on the ground barefoot feels good.
Using のは to nominalize the verb phrase.
地面に咲いている花はきれいです。
The flowers blooming on the ground are beautiful.
Using に to indicate where the flowers are blooming.
地面に足跡がたくさん残っています。
There are many footprints left on the ground.
Describing evidence on the ground.
工事現場では、地面の強度を確認することが重要です。
At construction sites, confirming the strength of the ground is important.
Using こと to nominalize the verb phrase.
この地域は地震が多いので、建物の地面の支持力が問われます。
Since this region has many earthquakes, the ground's bearing capacity for buildings is questioned.
Using 〜ので to show reason.
長雨の影響で、地面が滑りやすくなっています。
Due to the influence of the long rain, the ground has become slippery.
Using 〜やすい to indicate tendency.
農家は作物の生育のために、地面の栄養状態を常にチェックしています。
Farmers constantly check the nutritional status of the ground for crop growth.
Using 〜ために to indicate purpose.
地面に落ちた葉っぱが風で舞い上がっていた。
The leaves that fell on the ground were dancing in the wind.
Describing a natural phenomenon on the ground.
子供が転んで地面に頭を打ってしまった。
The child fell and hit their head on the ground.
Describing an accident involving the ground.
地面に埋められたタイムカプセルを発掘する予定です。
We plan to excavate a time capsule buried in the ground.
Using passive form 埋められた (umerareta).
真夏の太陽が照りつける地面は非常に熱くなる。
The ground scorched by the midsummer sun becomes very hot.
Using 〜につけて to indicate cause or condition.
地質調査によると、この地域の地面は比較的安定している。
According to geological surveys, the ground in this area is relatively stable.
Using 〜によると to indicate the source of information.
都市計画において、建物の基礎となる地面の特性を理解することは不可欠である。
In urban planning, understanding the characteristics of the ground that forms the foundation of buildings is essential.
Using 〜となる to indicate becoming or serving as.
過剰な開発により、地面の浸食が進んでいる地域がある。
Due to excessive development, there are areas where ground erosion is progressing.
Using 〜により to indicate cause.
この植物は、特定の種類の地面でしか生育しない。
This plant only grows in specific types of ground.
Using 〜でしか〜ない for exclusivity.
地面に埋められた遺跡から、古代文明の痕跡が発見された。
Traces of ancient civilization were discovered from ruins buried in the ground.
Using 〜から to indicate origin or source.
地面の温度差が、局地的な気象現象を引き起こすことがある。
Temperature differences in the ground can sometimes cause localized weather phenomena.
Using 〜ことがある to indicate possibility.
地面に落下した物体は、その衝撃を吸収する能力によって損傷度が異なる。
Objects falling to the ground differ in their degree of damage based on their ability to absorb impact.
Using 〜によって to indicate means or cause.
地面の微生物叢は、生態系の健全性に大きく貢献している。
The ground's microbiome contributes significantly to ecosystem health.
Using 〜叢 (mura) for a collection or community.
この理論の根幹をなすのは、経験的事実という名の地面である。
The foundation of this theory is the ground known as empirical facts.
Metaphorical use of 'ground' as a foundation.
地面に描かれた幾何学模様は、古代の儀式に使用された可能性が指摘されている。
The geometric patterns drawn on the ground have been suggested to have been used in ancient rituals.
Describing historical or ritualistic use of the ground.
研究者たちは、惑星の地表における生命存在の可能性を、地面の化学組成から探求している。
Researchers are exploring the possibility of life on a planet's surface based on the ground's chemical composition.
Scientific context, using 地表 as a synonym for 地面 in this context.
地面に根差した文化は、その土地の自然環境と深く結びついている。
Cultures rooted in the ground are deeply connected to the land's natural environment.
Metaphorical use of 'rooted in the ground'.
地面に刻まれた傷跡は、過去の激しい出来事を物語っている。
The scars etched into the ground tell the story of past tumultuous events.
Poetic description of the ground bearing history.
彼のアートは、日常の地面に潜む詩情を掬い上げる。
His art scoops up the poetic sentiment hidden in the everyday ground.
Artistic and abstract use of the word.
地面に広がる無数の星々は、宇宙の広大さを我々に思い知らせる。
The countless stars spread across the ground (earth) remind us of the vastness of the universe.
Figurative language comparing the ground to the night sky.
地面に描かれた迷宮は、参加者を内省へと誘う。
The labyrinth drawn on the ground invites participants to introspection.
Symbolic use of the ground as a canvas for deeper meaning.
その哲学者にとって、真理の探求とは、揺るぎない地面の上に確固たる知識の城を築く営みであった。
For that philosopher, the pursuit of truth was the endeavor of building a solid castle of knowledge upon unshakeable ground.
Highly metaphorical use of 'ground' as a basis for knowledge.
物語は、荒廃した大地にわずかに残された緑の地面を舞台に、希望の灯火を描き出す。
The story depicts a beacon of hope, set against the scarce green ground left on a desolate land.
Literary description emphasizing a small, vital area of ground.
芸術家の作品は、日常という地面に埋もれた感情の鉱脈を掘り当てる。
The artist's work strikes the veins of emotion buried in the ground of everyday life.
Metaphorical mining for emotions within the 'ground' of daily life.
地政学的な安定は、経済発展の地面を耕すための前提条件である。
Geopolitical stability is a prerequisite for cultivating the ground of economic development.
Abstract concept of 'ground' for economic development.
彼の言葉は、表面的な議論の地面を離れ、本質的な問いへと我々を導いた。
His words, leaving the ground of superficial discussion, led us to essential questions.
Metaphorical 'ground' of discussion and argument.
その古代文字は、地面に刻まれた時間の証言である。
Those ancient characters are the testimony of time etched into the ground.
Poetic and historical interpretation of markings on the ground.
地面に根差したコミュニティの強靭さは、困難な時代を乗り越えるための希望の源泉となる。
The resilience of communities rooted in the ground becomes a source of hope for overcoming difficult times.
Metaphorical 'ground' representing community foundation.
科学的探求の地面は、絶え間ない疑問と実験によって耕され続ける。
The ground of scientific inquiry is continuously cultivated by constant questioning and experimentation.
Metaphorical 'ground' for scientific exploration.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— To walk on the ground.
子供たちは公園の地面を歩くのを楽しんでいます。(Kodomo-tachi wa kōen no jimen o aruku no o tanoshinde imasu.) - The children enjoy walking on the ground in the park.
— To stand on the ground.
しっかり地面に立ってください。(Shikkari jimen ni tatte kudasai.) - Please stand firmly on the ground.
— The ground is wet.
雨が止んだ後、地面が濡れている。(Ame ga yanda ato, jimen ga nurete iru.) - After the rain stopped, the ground is wet.
— To dig the ground.
野菜を育てるために地面を掘りました。(Yasai o sodateru tame ni jimen o horimashita.) - I dug the ground to grow vegetables.
— To sit on the ground.
ピクニックで地面に座って食事をした。(Pikunikku de jimen ni suwatte shokuji o shita.) - We sat on the ground and ate during the picnic.
— The ground freezes.
冬の朝は地面が凍ることが多い。(Fuyu no asa wa jimen ga kōru koto ga ōi.) - The ground often freezes on winter mornings.
— To fall to the ground.
誤ってリンゴを地面に落としてしまった。(Ayamatte ringo o jimen ni otoshite shimatta.) - I accidentally dropped the apple onto the ground.
— Flowers that bloom on the ground.
道端の地面に咲く花は可憐だ。(Michibata no jimen ni saku hana wa karen da.) - The flowers blooming on the ground by the roadside are lovely.
— Ground temperature.
地面の温度を測ってみましょう。(Jimen no ondo o hakatte mimashō.) - Let's measure the ground temperature.
— To cover the ground.
新しい芝生が地面を覆うように広がった。(Atarashii shibafu ga jimen o ōu yō ni hirogatta.) - The new lawn spread to cover the ground.
Souvent confondu avec
While both relate to the earth, 地面 refers to the surface as a whole, whereas 土 specifically means soil or dirt. You walk on the 地面, and plants grow in the 土.
地面 is the outdoor surface, while 床 is the indoor floor. They are never interchangeable.
土地 refers to land as a property or area, often related to ownership or development, whereas 地面 is the physical surface you interact with.
Expressions idiomatiques
— To be realistic; to have one's feet on the ground. It means to be practical and sensible, not having unrealistic ideas.
彼はいつも地面に足をつけて考えている。(Kare wa itsumo jimen ni ashi o tsukete kangaete iru.) - He always thinks with his feet on the ground.
Idiomatic/Common— Crawling on the ground; very low or humble; lacking ambition or spirit. It can describe something that is very ordinary, insignificant, or lacking any flair.
彼の態度は地面を這うようで、まったく情熱がない。(Kare no taido wa jimen o hau yō de, mattaku jōnetsu ga nai.) - His attitude is like crawling on the ground, completely lacking passion.
Idiomatic/Figurative— To grovel; to humble oneself excessively; to beg forgiveness in a very submissive way.
彼は間違いを犯し、地面に頭をこすりつけるように謝った。(Kare wa machigai o okashi, jimen ni atama o kosuritsukeru yō ni ayamattta.) - He made a mistake and apologized as if groveling on the ground.
Idiomatic/Figurative— The ground shakes. This is literally used for earthquakes, but can metaphorically imply a major upheaval or crisis.
大地震で地面が揺れた。(Daijishin de jimen ga yureta.) - The ground shook during the big earthquake.
Literal/Metaphorical— To bury one's face in the ground. This implies extreme shame, embarrassment, or sadness.
失敗の知らせを聞いて、彼は地面に顔をうずめた。(Shippai no shirase o kiite, kare wa jimen ni kao o uzumeta.) - Hearing the news of failure, he buried his face in the ground.
Idiomatic/Figurative— To dig up the ground. This can be literal (archaeology) or metaphorical, meaning to bring up old issues or past grievances.
過去の出来事を地面を掘り返すように話すのはやめよう。(Kako no dekigoto o jimen o horikaesu yō ni hanasu no wa yame yō.) - Let's stop talking about past events as if digging up the ground.
Literal/Metaphorical— To be firmly established; to be set in stone. It implies something that is fixed and unchangeable.
この約束は地面に釘を打ったようなものだ。(Kono yakusoku wa jimen ni kugi o utta yō na mono da.) - This promise is like a nail driven into the ground (it's set in stone).
Idiomatic/Figurative— To crawl on the ground. This can be literal, or metaphorical for being in a very low or humble position.
彼は一度大きな失敗をして、地面を這うような生活を送った。(Kare wa ichido ōkina shippai o shite, jimen o hau yō na seikatsu o okutta.) - He made a big mistake once and lived a life like crawling on the ground.
Literal/Figurative— To draw a picture on the ground. This can be literal (children playing) or metaphorical, suggesting impermanence or a temporary creation.
子供たちがチョークで地面に絵を描いていた。(Kodomo-tachi ga chōku de jimen ni e o kaite ita.) - The children were drawing pictures on the ground with chalk.
Literal/Figurative— To spring forth from the ground. This is often used literally for water or gas, but can metaphorically mean something appearing unexpectedly or suddenly.
泉が地面から湧き出ている。(Izumi ga jimen kara wakiidete iru.) - A spring is gushing out from the ground.
Literal/MetaphoricalFacile à confondre
Both relate to the earth and are used in contexts involving nature and the outdoors.
<strong>地面 (jimen)</strong> is the entire surface of the earth that we walk on, stand on, or build upon. It's the general concept of the ground. <strong>土 (tsuchi)</strong> specifically refers to the soil or dirt that makes up the ground. You can have <strong>地面</strong> made of concrete, rock, or grass, but <strong>土</strong> is the material itself. For example, 'The <strong>ground</strong> is wet' (<strong>地面</strong>が濡れている - jimen ga nurete iru), but 'This <strong>soil</strong> is good for farming' (この<strong>土</strong>は農業に適している - kono tsuchi wa nōgyō ni tekishite iru).
庭の<strong>地面</strong>に座って、<strong>土</strong>いじりをする。(Niwa no <strong>jimen</strong> ni suwatte, <strong>tsuchi</strong> ijiri o suru.) - Sit on the garden ground and play with the soil.
Both refer to a surface that people are in contact with.
<strong>地面 (jimen)</strong> refers to the natural surface of the earth, typically outdoors. <strong>床 (yuka)</strong> specifically refers to the floor inside a building. You walk on the <strong>地面</strong> outside and on the <strong>床</strong> inside. They are distinct and not interchangeable.
外の<strong>地面</strong>は泥だらけだったが、部屋の<strong>床</strong>はきれいだった。(Soto no <strong>jimen</strong> wa dorodarake datta ga, heya no <strong>yuka</strong> wa kirei datta.) - The ground outside was muddy, but the floor in the room was clean.
Both relate to land and are used in discussions about property and development.
<strong>地面 (jimen)</strong> refers to the physical surface of the earth, what you see and feel under your feet. <strong>土地 (tochi)</strong> refers to land as a piece of property, often in terms of its area, ownership, or economic value. You might buy <strong>土地</strong> (land) and then build on its <strong>地面</strong> (ground).
その<strong>土地</strong>は広大で、<strong>地面</strong>は平坦だった。(Sono <strong>tochi</strong> wa kōdai de, <strong>jimen</strong> wa heitan datta.) - That land was vast, and the ground was flat.
It's a synonym for the surface of the earth.
<strong>地面 (jimen)</strong> is the common, everyday word for 'ground'. <strong>地表 (chihyō)</strong> is a more formal or scientific term for the Earth's surface, often used in geology, geography, or technical contexts. While they mean the same thing, <strong>地面</strong> is used in casual conversation, while <strong>地表</strong> is more likely in academic or specialized writing.
<strong>地面</strong>の温度は快適だが、<strong>地表</strong>の調査は重要だ。(<strong>Jimen</strong> no ondo wa kaiteki da ga, <strong>chihyō</strong> no chōsa wa jūyō da.) - The ground temperature is comfortable, but the survey of the Earth's surface is important.
Both refer to the ground and are related to construction and stability.
<strong>地面 (jimen)</strong> is the general term for the earth's surface. <strong>地盤 (jiban)</strong> specifically refers to the ground as a foundation or base, emphasizing its stability and load-bearing capacity, particularly in construction and engineering. You assess the <strong>地盤</strong> to ensure the <strong>地面</strong> can support a structure.
建物を建てる前に、<strong>地面</strong>の状態だけでなく、<strong>地盤</strong>の強度も確認する必要がある。(Tatemono o tateru mae ni, <strong>jimen</strong> no jōtai dake de naku, <strong>jiban</strong> no kyōdo mo kakunin suru hitsuyō ga aru.) - Before building a structure, it's necessary to check not only the condition of the ground but also the strength of the foundation (ground base).
Structures de phrases
これは地面です。
これは<strong>地面</strong>です。(Kore wa <strong>jimen</strong> desu.)
地面が〜です。
<strong>地面が</strong>乾いています。(<strong>Jimen ga</strong> kawaite imasu.)
〜は地面にあります。
公園は<strong>地面に</strong>あります。(Kōen wa <strong>jimen ni</strong> arimasu.)
地面を〜します。
<strong>地面を</strong>歩きます。(<strong>Jimen o</strong> arukimasu.)
〜ので、地面が〜。
雨が降った<strong>ので、地面が</strong>ぬかるんでいます。(Ame ga futta <strong>node, jimen ga</strong> nukarunde imasu.)
〜ために、地面を〜。
庭を作る<strong>ために、地面を</strong>耕します。(Niwa o tsukuru <strong>tame ni, jimen o</strong> tagayashimasu.)
〜によると、地面は〜。
調査<strong>によると、地面は</strong>安定しています。(Chōsa <strong>ni yoru to, jimen wa</strong> antei shite imasu.)
〜によって、地面の状態が変わる。
季節<strong>によって、地面の</strong>状態が変わります。(Kisetsu <strong>ni yotte, jimen no</strong> jōtai ga kawarimasu.)
Famille de mots
Noms
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Very high in everyday language.
-
Using <strong>地面</strong> when 'soil' is meant.
→
Using <strong>土 (tsuchi)</strong> when referring specifically to the material of the soil.
Learners often use <strong>地面</strong> for 'soil'. While soil is part of the ground, <strong>土</strong> is the precise word for soil. For example, 'This soil is fertile' should be 'この<strong>土</strong>は肥えている (kono <strong>tsuchi</strong> wa koete iru)', not 'この<strong>地面</strong>は肥えている'.
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Confusing <strong>地面</strong> with <strong>床 (yuka)</strong>.
→
Using <strong>地面</strong> for outdoor ground and <strong>床</strong> for indoor floors.
These are distinct. <strong>地面</strong> is the earth's surface outdoors. <strong>床</strong> is the floor inside a building. You walk on the <strong>地面</strong> in a park and on the <strong>床</strong> in your house. Never interchange them.
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Incorrect particle usage (e.g., using で instead of を or に).
→
Using appropriate particles based on the verb and context.
While <strong>地面で</strong> can indicate a location where an action happens, for movement across the surface, <strong>地面を</strong> is often used (e.g., 地面を歩く - jimen o aruku). For location, <strong>地面に</strong> is common (e.g., 地面に座る - jimen ni suwaru). Incorrect particle choice leads to unnatural phrasing.
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Using <strong>地面</strong> for 'land' in the sense of property or real estate.
→
Using <strong>土地 (tochi)</strong> for land as property.
<strong>地面</strong> refers to the physical surface. <strong>土地</strong> refers to land as a plot of property or real estate. You buy <strong>土地</strong>, not <strong>地面</strong>. For example, 'This land is for sale' is 'この<strong>土地</strong>は売りに出ています (kono <strong>tochi</strong> wa uri ni dete imasu)'.
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Over-literal translation from English idioms.
→
Learning established Japanese idioms.
Directly translating English idioms involving 'ground' might not work. For instance, 'ground floor' is not '地面の階' but '一階 (ikkai)'. For 'have one's feet on the ground,' the correct Japanese idiom is '地面に足をつける (jimen ni ashi o tsukeru)'.
Astuces
Kanji Breakdown
Break down the kanji: 地 (earth/ground) + 面 (surface/face). Visualize the 'face of the earth' to remember the meaning of 地面.
Particle Practice
Practice using 地面 with different particles: が for the subject, を for movement across, and に for location. This is crucial for natural sentence construction.
Clear Pronunciation
Pronounce the 'ji' sound softly, similar to the 'j' in 'jeep', and ensure the final 'n' is clear. Avoid overly emphasizing any one syllable.
Related Terms
Learn related words like 土 (tsuchi - soil), 土地 (tochi - land), and 床 (yuka - floor) to understand the distinctions and broaden your vocabulary.
Describe Your Surroundings
Actively use 地面 when describing what you see or experience outdoors. Talk about the ground in parks, streets, or even your garden.
Idiomatic Expressions
Familiarize yourself with idioms like '地面に足をつける' (to be realistic) to understand more nuanced uses of the word.
Ground vs. Sky
Contrast 地面 (ground) with 空 (sora - sky) to solidify your understanding of opposite directions and locations.
Observe Native Usage
Pay attention to how native speakers use 地面 in various contexts – in conversations, dramas, or written materials. This will help you grasp its natural usage.
Create Sentences
Write your own sentences using 地面 in different grammatical structures and contexts to reinforce your learning.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine 'Jimmy' (ジミー - Jimī) who loves to walk on the 'men' (面 - men, like a men's room sign) of the 'ground' (地面). So, Jimmy on the men's room sign on the ground.
Association visuelle
Picture yourself standing on a vast, flat surface (the ground). Imagine this surface has a giant, stylized 'M' (for 'men' or 'surface') inscribed on it, and a sign saying 'JIMMY's Spot' pointing to it. The 'JIMMY' sounds like 'ji-men'.
Word Web
Défi
Try to describe your surroundings using the word 地面. For example, 'My room's 地面 is carpeted.' or 'The park's 地面 is soft.' Focus on using it correctly in different contexts.
Origine du mot
The word 地面 (じめん) is a compound word formed from two kanji characters: 地 (chi) meaning 'earth', 'ground', or 'land', and 面 (men) meaning 'surface', 'face', or 'side'. Together, they literally mean 'earth's surface'. This is a direct and descriptive combination.
Sens originel : The original meaning is the surface of the earth.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters)Contexte culturel
The word itself is neutral. However, descriptions of the ground can evoke different feelings depending on the context – for example, a muddy, uneven ground might be seen negatively, while fertile soil might be seen positively. Care should be taken when discussing issues like land use, environmental impact, or historical events tied to specific locations.
In English-speaking cultures, 'ground' is also a fundamental word, used similarly for the surface of the earth, foundations, and metaphorically for a basis or reason. Phrases like 'ground floor' or 'groundbreaking' share conceptual similarities.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Describing weather conditions
- 地面が濡れている (jimen ga nurete iru)
- 地面が乾いている (jimen ga kawaite iru)
- 地面が凍っている (jimen ga kōtte iru)
- 地面が雪で覆われている (jimen ga yuki de ōwarete iru)
Talking about outdoor activities
- 地面を歩く (jimen o aruku)
- 地面に座る (jimen ni suwaru)
- 地面で遊ぶ (jimen de asobu)
- 地面に立つ (jimen ni tatsu)
Construction and gardening
- 地面を掘る (jimen o horu)
- 地面を平らにする (jimen o taira ni suru)
- 地面を耕す (jimen o tagayasu)
- 地面に植える (jimen ni ueru)
Describing the physical state of the ground
- 地面が硬い (jimen ga katai)
- 地面が柔らかい (jimen ga yawarakai)
- 地面がぬかるんでいる (jimen ga nukarunde iru)
- 地面がでこぼこだ (jimen ga dekoboko da)
Figurative or idiomatic usage
- 地面に足をつける (jimen ni ashi o tsukeru)
- 地面を這うような (jimen o hau yō na)
- 地面に顔をうずめる (jimen ni kao o uzumeru)
Amorces de conversation
"今日の天気はどうですか？地面は濡れていますか？"
"公園の地面はどんな感じですか？子供が遊んでも大丈夫ですか？"
"新しい家を建てるなら、地面の状態は重要ですよね。"
"夏は地面がすごく暑くなりますね。"
"雨が降った後、地面がぬかるんで歩きにくいです。"
Sujets d'écriture
Describe the ground outside your window right now. What is its condition, color, and texture?
Write about a memory involving the ground – perhaps falling, playing, or building something.
Imagine you are a plant. Describe your experience of being rooted in the ground.
How does the ground in your city or town feel different from the ground in rural areas?
Reflect on the idiom 'to have one's feet on the ground'. How do you apply this to your life?
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsNot exactly. 地面 (jimen) refers to the entire surface of the earth that you walk on, which can be made of soil, rock, sand, or even concrete. 土 (tsuchi) is the word specifically for 'soil' or 'dirt'. So, while soil is often part of the ground, 地面 is a broader term for the surface itself.
地面 (jimen) is used for the ground outside, the earth's surface. 床 (yuka) is used for the floor inside a building. You walk on the 地面 in a park and on the 床 in your house.
Yes, it can be used metaphorically, especially in idioms. For example, '地面に足をつける' (jimen ni ashi o tsukeru) means 'to have one's feet on the ground,' implying being realistic and practical. This usage extends the meaning beyond the literal surface.
地面 (jimen) refers to the physical surface of the earth. 土地 (tochi) refers to land as a piece of property, often related to ownership, area, or real estate. You might buy 土地 (land) and then build on its 地面 (ground).
You would say '地面が揺れる' (jimen ga yureru). This is commonly used for earthquakes.
Yes, 地面 is a very common and fundamental word in Japanese, used frequently in everyday conversation and writing when referring to the surface of the earth.
Yes, absolutely. For example, 'サッカーの地面' (sakkā no jimen - the soccer ground) or '地面の状態' (jimen no jōtai - the condition of the ground).
It depends on the context. が marks it as the subject (地面が凍る - jimen ga kōru - the ground freezes), を indicates movement across it (地面を歩く - jimen o aruku - to walk on the ground), and に indicates location (地面に座る - jimen ni suwaru - to sit on the ground).
地面 is the everyday word for ground. 地表 is a more formal or scientific term for the Earth's surface, often used in geology or geography.
You can say '地面がぬかるんでいる' (jimen ga nukarunde iru).
Teste-toi 10 questions
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Perfect score!
Summary
<strong>地面 (じめん - jimen)</strong> is the essential Japanese word for 'ground,' referring to the surface of the earth that we interact with daily. It's used in contexts ranging from weather and gardening to construction and sports, making it a vital part of everyday vocabulary.
- A fundamental noun for the earth's surface.
- Used for walking, building, and describing outdoor environments.
- Often paired with particles like が, を, and に.
- Distinguished from 土 (soil) and 床 (floor).
Context is Key
Remember that while 地面 means 'ground', its specific nuance can change. Think about whether you mean the general surface, the soil, or the land as property, and choose the most appropriate word (地面, 土, 土地).
Kanji Breakdown
Break down the kanji: 地 (earth/ground) + 面 (surface/face). Visualize the 'face of the earth' to remember the meaning of 地面.
Particle Practice
Practice using 地面 with different particles: が for the subject, を for movement across, and に for location. This is crucial for natural sentence construction.
Clear Pronunciation
Pronounce the 'ji' sound softly, similar to the 'j' in 'jeep', and ensure the final 'n' is clear. Avoid overly emphasizing any one syllable.
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