aizuchi; backchanneling; interjections showing attention
Refers to the frequent interjections (e.g., はい, ええ, そうですか) used in Japanese conversation to show one is listening and engaged. Often used in the phrase 相づちを打つ.
He gave appropriate aizuchi while listening to the story.
In Japanese conversation, aizuchi are very important.
two smiths hammering in turn
Historical term from swordsmithing; refers to two smiths alternating hammer strikes on the same piece. Rarely used outside historical or technical contexts.
See also: 向こう鎚
In swordsmithing, one could see the master and apprentice hammering in turn.
I listened to his story, nodding along with 'uh-huh's.
He just gave vague 'uh-huh's and wasn't really listening.
Search-only form; not standard in modern usage.
Search-only form; not standard in modern usage.
Rare kanji variant using 鎚 instead of 槌.