1.
bridge
A structure built to span a physical obstacle such as a river or road.
To tap a stone bridge before crossing it (to be overly cautious).
Proverb meaning to be excessively careful.
橋 means bridge, a structure spanning obstacles like rivers or roads.
HOMOPHONES (same pronunciation, different words):
These are distinguished by kanji and pitch accent in speech.
COMMON COMPOUNDS:
- 石橋: stone bridge
- 歩道橋: pedestrian overpass
- 吊り橋: suspension bridge
- 鉄橋: iron/railway bridge
- 橋渡し: bridge-building, mediation
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
FIGURATIVE USE:
橋渡し means 'go-between' or 'mediator' - acting as a bridge between parties.