(いそ)

いそ
noun
rocky shore; seashore rocks
1. rocky shore; seashore with rocks
A rocky coastline area, typically exposed at low tide.
I picked up shells at the rocky shore.
There's a smell of the seashore.
磯の香り = ocean/seaweed scent
To enjoy playing at the rocky shore.
磯遊び = exploring tide pools

(いそ) specifically refers to rocky coastal areas where waves crash against rocks and tide pools form, distinct from sandy beaches.

COMMON EXPRESSIONS:

  • (いそ)(かお): scent of the sea/seaweed (an evocative phrase for ocean air)
  • 磯遊(いそあそ)び: exploring tide pools, playing at the rocky shore
  • 磯釣(いそづ)り: rock fishing (fishing from rocky shores)
  • (いそ)()き: grilling seafood on rocks by the shore

CONTRAST:

USAGE:
Often appears in place names and food terms. (いそ)(かお) is a common description in food writing for dishes with a fresh ocean/seaweed aroma.