1.
the 24 solar terms; the 24 seasonal divisions
A traditional East Asian system that divides the solar year into 24 segments, each marking a specific seasonal change. Used historically for agriculture and still referenced in Japanese culture.
A compound of 二十四 (twenty-four) and 節気 (seasonal division). This system divides the solar year into 24 equal segments of approximately 15 days each, marking transitions in weather, daylight, and natural phenomena.
Well-known terms from the 二十四節気 that appear in everyday Japanese include 立春 (Start of Spring), 春分 (Vernal Equinox), 夏至 (Summer Solstice), 秋分 (Autumnal Equinox), 冬至 (Winter Solstice), and 大寒 (Major Cold). These terms frequently appear on calendars, in weather reports, and in seasonal greetings.
Common collocations
- 二十四節気の一つ: one of the 24 solar terms
- 二十四節気に合わせて: in accordance with the solar terms
- 二十四節気と七十二候: the 24 solar terms and 72 micro-seasons