1.
under the eaves
the sheltered area beneath the overhanging roof edge of a building
軒下で雨宿りをする。
Take shelter from the rain under the eaves.
ツバメが軒下に巣を作った。
Swallows built a nest under the eaves.
軒下に自転車を止めてある。
The bicycle is parked under the eaves.
軒下 refers to the sheltered space beneath a roof's overhang.
COMPOSITION:
- 軒: Eaves (the edge of a roof that overhangs)
- 下: Under, beneath
COMMON USES:
- Shelter from rain or sun
- Space for hanging laundry, storing items
- Nesting location for birds (especially swallows)
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 軒下で雨宿りする (take shelter from rain under the eaves)
- 軒下に干す (to hang/dry under the eaves)
- 軒下に巣を作る (to build a nest under the eaves)
CULTURAL NOTE:
Swallows (燕) building nests under 軒下 is traditionally considered good luck in Japan. Homeowners often welcome these nests.
EXPRESSION:
- 軒を貸して母屋を取られる: "Lend the eaves and lose the main house" - a proverb meaning giving someone an inch and they take a mile.
REGISTER: Neutral.