1.
red and white
The color combination of red and white, considered auspicious in Japanese culture. Used for celebrations, gifts, and festive occasions.
2.
two competing teams or sides
A format in which participants are divided into a red team and a white team for competition. From the traditional Japanese practice of splitting groups into red and white sides.
Usage
Often used as a no-adjective modifier: 紅白の + noun. The combination of red and white is considered auspicious (縁起がいい) in Japanese culture, symbolizing joy and celebration.
Common collocations
- 紅白まんじゅう: red and white manju (celebratory sweets)
- 紅白の幕: red and white curtains (for ceremonies)
- 紅白歌合戦: NHK Red and White Song Contest
- 紅白戦: red-vs-white competition
- 紅白に分かれる: to split into red and white teams
Cultural note
NHK紅白歌合戦 is one of Japan's most-watched television programs, broadcast every New Year's Eve since 1951. Male and female singers are traditionally divided into white and red teams respectively.