対
Meanings
Used for two things that correspond to each other, match, or form a pair; common in expressions such as 対になる and 一対.
These two patterns form a pair.
The earrings were sold as a pair.
antithesis; parallel contrast
A rhetorical or literary use, especially close to 対句, where two phrases or lines are set in balanced contrast or parallel structure.
See also: 対句
In Chinese-style poetry, two lines may form an antithetical pair.
counter for pairs
Counter for two matching or corresponding items, especially in 一対, such as statues, lanterns, animals, or accessories placed or used as a pair.
A pair of stone lanterns stands in front of the gate.
counter for sets; counter for matched utensils or furnishings
A more limited or catalog-like counter use for a set of items such as clothes, small furnishings, or utensils; often overlaps with the idea of a matched pair or set.
The catalogue listed it as 'one set of his-and-hers rice bowls.'
Usage patterns
- 一対の〈物〉a pair/set of ~
I placed a pair of vases on the table.
- 〈物〉を対にするto make ~ into a matching pair
I displayed the two paintings as a matching pair.