架(か)け橋(はし)

かけはし
noun
bridge, link, bond, connection
abstractbuilding
1. bridge (literal)
A physical bridge spanning a gap, especially a simple or suspended bridge.
谷(たに)に架(か)け橋(はし)がかかっている。
A bridge spans the valley.
2. link, bond, connection (figurative)
Something or someone that connects different groups, cultures, or people; a metaphorical bridge.
両国(りょうこく)の友好(ゆうこう)の架(か)け橋(はし)となる。
To become a bridge of friendship between the two countries.
音楽(おんがく)は世代(せだい)を超(こ)える架(か)け橋(はし)だ。
Music is a bridge that transcends generations.

Common patterns

Usage

The figurative meaning (sense 2) is more common in modern usage. Used in contexts of international relations, cultural exchange, and connecting different groups.

Related Words

Related: 橋渡(はしわた)し (mediation, bridging, acting as a go-between)
general
Added 2026.2.3 11:33 · Revised 2026.10.4 3:56
09500/09607_kakehashi