狭間(はざま)

はざま
noun
gap, space between, interval
1. gap, space between, interval
The space or boundary between two things, whether physical or abstract. Often used figuratively to describe being caught between opposing forces, emotions, or states.
夢(ゆめ)と現実(げんじつ)の狭間(はざま)にいる。
I am caught between dream and reality.
生(い)きることと死(し)ぬことの狭間(はざま)で苦(くる)しんだ。
I suffered in the space between life and death.
仕事(しごと)と家庭(かてい)の狭間(はざま)で悩(なや)む人(ひと)は少(すく)なくない。
There are many people who struggle between work and family.

Usage

Most commonly used in the figurative pattern AとBの狭間(はざま) ("between A and B"), describing a state of being caught or torn between two opposing things. The physical sense (a narrow gap between objects such as mountains or buildings) exists but is less common in modern usage.

Common collocations

general
Added 2026.2.25 22:26 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
13000/13495_hazama