Translation guide
The string of a bow, used in archery or musical instruments. In Japanese, the word depends on the type of bow.
The string of a bow used for shooting arrows, such as in kyudo (Japanese archery) or Western archery.
The string of a bowed instrument like a violin, cello, or erhu, played with a bow.
Figurative uses, such as tension, readiness, or something stretched tight.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'as taut as a bowstring', describing a tense atmosphere or a person's nerves.
弦を張ったような緊張感。
A tension as taut as a bowstring.
Both are written as 弦. つる is used for archery bowstrings, while げん is used for musical instrument strings. Context usually makes the reading clear, but when speaking, use the correct reading to avoid confusion.
弓道では弦を大切に扱う。
In kyudo, the bowstring is handled with care.
チェロの弦が一本切れた。
One of the cello strings broke.
String the bow.
弦が切れた。
The bowstring snapped.
Specifically a bowstring for a Japanese bow (yumi). More traditional or literary feel.
弓弦の音が響く。
The sound of the bowstring resonates.
Replace the violin string.
弓で弦を擦る。
Draw the bow across the string.