重心
Meanings
center of gravity
Physics term for the point where weight is evenly distributed. Also used metaphorically for the core or focus of something.
This robot is designed with a low center of gravity.
The focus of the debate shifted to economic policy.
centroid; barycenter
Mathematical term for the geometric center of a shape or the center of mass in a system of bodies. Technical use.
The centroid of a triangle is the intersection of its medians.
Refers to one's physical or mental stability. Often used in phrases like 重心を保つ or 重心を失う.
He lost his balance and fell.
It's hard to keep one's mental equilibrium.
Usage patterns
- 重心を保つto maintain one's balance
The skater rotated while keeping their balance.
- 重心を失うto lose one's balance
I was suddenly pushed, lost my balance, and fell over.
- 重心が低い／高いto have a low/high center of gravity
This sports car has a low center of gravity, so it corners stably.
- 重心を移動するto shift one's center of gravity
When you swing, shift your center of gravity onto your front foot.
- 〈事〉に重心を置くto place emphasis on something
The new strategy places its focus on overseas expansion.
Expressions
- 重心を取るbalance oneself; keep one's balance