kendo stance with sword tip at opponent's eyes
A fundamental kendo posture where the sword is held pointing toward the opponent's eyes, maintaining pressure and readiness. Also used metaphorically for facing something squarely.
In kendo, the seigan stance is considered fundamental.
He took the seigan stance and waited for his opponent's move.
warm, welcoming eyes
Only when written 青眼
Literary expression for eyes that show warmth and acceptance. Often contrasted with 白眼 (cold, disdainful look). Restricted to the kanji 青眼.
See also: 白目 (はくがん)
She welcomed me with warm, kind eyes.
You can tell the difference between warm eyes and a cold stare at a glance.
青眼 describes a warm, welcoming look, the opposite of the cold, rejecting stare called 白目.
Standard kanji for the kendo stance; also used for the broader 'facing squarely' nuance.
Literary kanji for warm, welcoming eyes; restricted to sense 2. Contrasts with 白眼 (はくがん, cold stare).
正眼 literally means 'correct eye', referring to the sword tip aligned with the opponent's eyes. 青眼 uses 青 (blue/clear) to suggest clear, welcoming eyes, contrasting with 白眼 (white eyes, cold stare).