1.
food, clothing, and shelter; the three basic necessities of life
A set phrase referring to the fundamental requirements for human living. Composed of 衣 (clothing) + 食 (food) + 住 (housing). Often used when discussing standards of living or basic needs.
衣食住に困らない生活がしたい。
I want a life where I don't have to worry about the basics.
衣食住が整って初めて、人は安心できる。
People can feel at ease only when their basic needs are met.
留学先では衣食住すべてを自分で管理しなければならなかった。
While studying abroad, I had to manage all my basic living needs by myself.
USAGE:
衣食住 is a concise expression for the three pillars of daily life. It is commonly used in discussions about living standards, budgeting, and social welfare.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 衣食住に困る (to struggle with basic needs)
- 衣食住が足りる (to have enough for basic needs)
- 衣食住を整える (to get one's basic needs in order)
CULTURAL NOTE:
The Japanese order (clothing, food, housing) differs from the typical English order (food, clothing, shelter). The expression 衣食住足りて礼節を知る (when one has enough to eat and wear, one learns manners) is a well-known proverb.