also: こうしゅ
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
doing nothing to help; watching with arms folded
Idiomatic use: describes a passive, uninvolved stance, often in situations where action is expected. Commonly used in the phrase 拱手傍観 (きょうしゅぼうかん).
彼は困っている友達を拱手傍観していた。
He stood by with his arms folded while his friend was in trouble.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', intransitive verb
bowing with hands clasped in front of the chest (Chinese-style salute)
Refers to the traditional Chinese gesture of respect, where the hands are held together in front of the chest. Rarely used in modern Japanese outside historical or cultural contexts.
中国の伝統的な挨拶では、拱手をすることがある。
In traditional Chinese greetings, people sometimes bow with their hands clasped in front of their chest.