よすが

An elegant, somewhat literary word with deep emotional resonance. Can be written in kanji as 縁(よすが) or 便(よすが), but is most commonly written in hiragana. Appears frequently in literature, poetry, and formal or reflective writing.

Common collocations

• 心(こころ)のよすが: emotional support, something for the heart to cling to
• 生(い)きるよすが: reason for living, something to live for
• よすがとする: to take as one's support or keepsake
• よすがの品(しな): a memento, keepsake item

Usage

Used when speaking of something deeply important that provides emotional support, comfort, or connection — whether to a person, to the past, or to hope. Carries a poetic, often bittersweet nuance. Uncommon in casual speech but valued in literary and formal contexts.

Similar words

• 頼(たよ)り: reliance, support — more everyday and practical
• 縁(えん): connection, fate — broader concept of karmic or social ties
• 形見(かたみ): keepsake of a deceased person — specifically a memento left by someone who has died