1.
cross; crucifix
The Christian cross or crucifix as a religious symbol. Also refers to the physical object.
教会の上に十字架がある。
There is a cross on top of the church.
首から十字架のネックレスを下げている。
She is wearing a cross necklace around her neck.
キリストは十字架にかけられたと伝えられている。
It is said that Christ was crucified on the cross.
2.
burden; cross to bear
Used figuratively to mean a heavy burden or responsibility that one must endure.
その過去は彼にとって重い十字架だ。
That past is a heavy cross for him to bear.
責任者として、その失敗の十字架を背負い続けている。
As the person in charge, he continues to bear the cross of that failure.
あの事故は一生の十字架になるだろう。
That accident will be a cross to bear for a lifetime.
USAGE:
Sense 1 is the literal religious object. Sense 2 is a figurative extension meaning a heavy burden or guilt, similar to the English expression "cross to bear." The figurative use is common in literary and dramatic contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 十字架を背負う (to bear a cross; to carry a burden)
- 十字架にかける (to crucify)
- 十字架像 (crucifix statue)