1.
pillar, column, post
A vertical structural support in a building. In traditional Japanese architecture, wooden pillars are essential elements.
この家は太い柱で支えられています。
This house is supported by thick pillars.
柱に身長を記録しました。
I marked my height on the pillar.
古い神社の柱は立派で歴史を感じます。
The pillars of the old shrine are impressive and you can feel the history.
2.
mainstay, pillar (figurative)
A person or thing that provides essential support.
彼はチームの大黒柱です。
He is the mainstay of the team.
母は家族の柱として、いつもみんなを支えてくれている。
As the pillar of the family, my mother always supports everyone.
このプロジェクトの三つの柱は、品質と速さと安全です。
The three pillars of this project are quality, speed, and safety.
柱 refers to pillars and columns.
Types in traditional architecture:
- 大黒柱 (main pillar, also "mainstay")
- 床柱 (alcove pillar in tokonoma)
- 通し柱 (continuous pillar through floors)
Cultural significance:
- In traditional homes, 大黒柱 is central and sacred
- Children's height often marked on pillars as family memory
- Fine wood species used for visible pillars
Figurative expressions:
- 大黒柱 (main pillar/breadwinner of family)
- 柱となる (to become a pillar/mainstay)
- 四本柱 (four pillars - sumo ring)
Counter for pillars: 本
Counter for gods/spirits: 柱 (archaic/literary)