(ひかげ)

ひかげ
noun
shade, shadow (from sunlight)
1. shade, shadow
An area protected from direct sunlight, typically cooler than surrounding areas.
It's hot, so let's rest in the shade.
This plant can grow even in the shade.
The temperature is completely different in the shade versus the sun.
I parked the car in the shade.
I walked looking for shade.

日陰(ひかげ) specifically refers to shade from sunlight, as opposed to general darkness.

Contrast with:

  • 日向(ひなた) (sunny spot, place in the sun) - opposite
  • (かげ) (shadow, silhouette) - shadow cast by an object
  • (かげ) (shade, behind) - can also mean 'behind' or 'unseen'

Common expressions:

  • 日陰(ひかげ)(はい)る (to get into the shade)
  • 日陰(ひかげ)(そだ)つ (to grow in the shade)
  • 日陰(ひかげ)(もの) (person who avoids the spotlight)