1.
whip, riding crop
A flexible instrument used for striking, especially in horseback riding. Also used figuratively to mean harsh discipline or urging.
馬に鞭を入れる。
To whip a horse.
鞭を打って馬を走らせた。
I struck with the whip and made the horse run.
子どもの教育には飴と鞭のバランスが大切だと言われている。
It's said that a balance of carrot and stick is important in raising children.
飴と鞭 literally means 'candy and whip' — the Japanese equivalent of 'carrot and stick.'
鞭 refers to a whip or riding crop.
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 鞭を入れる: to whip, to spur on
- 鞭を打つ: to strike with a whip
- 飴と鞭: carrot and stick (literally 'candy and whip')
FIGURATIVE USE:
鞭を入れる can also mean to push oneself harder or to urge someone on, not just literal whipping.