1.
crystal, crystallization
A solid substance in which atoms or molecules are arranged in a regular, repeating pattern. Also the process of forming such a structure.
雪の結晶は美しい。
Snow crystals are beautiful.
塩が水から結晶した。
Salt crystallized from the water.
顕微鏡で結晶の構造を観察した。
I observed the crystal structure under a microscope.
2.
fruit, product (of effort)
The tangible result or culmination of sustained effort, love, or dedication. A figurative extension of the crystallization metaphor.
愛の結晶。
The fruit of love.
A common expression referring to a child born of a loving relationship.
この作品は長年の努力の結晶だ。
This work is the fruit of many years of effort.
チーム全員の汗と涙の結晶がこの優勝だ。
This championship is the product of the entire team's sweat and tears.
USAGE:
Also functions as a suru verb: 結晶する (to crystallize). The figurative sense 2 is very common in everyday Japanese, especially the phrase 愛の結晶 (fruit of love, i.e., a child).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 雪の結晶: snow crystal
- 結晶構造: crystal structure
- 愛の結晶: fruit of love (a child)
- 努力の結晶: fruit of one's efforts