両端
also: りょうはし · りょうはじ
Meanings
both ends; either end; both edges
Used for the two ends or edges of a line-like, long, flat, or bounded object. In context it may refer to things located at each of the two ends.
I tied both ends of the rope tightly.
Security guards are standing at both ends of the bridge.
double-mindedness; sitting on the fence
Only with reading りょうたん
Rare abstract use, especially in the fixed literary expression 両端を持する, meaning to avoid taking a clear side. This sense is restricted to the reading りょうたん.
両端を持する refers to an attitude of not clearly siding with either side.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉の両端を持つto hold both ends of something
I held both ends of the towel and pulled.
- 〈物〉の両端を結ぶto tie both ends of something together
I tied both ends of the rope together to make a loop.
- 両端が〈形容詞〉both ends are (a certain shape/state)
Both ends of this rod are rounded.
- 両端を持するto sit on the fence, avoiding taking a clear side
He took a fence-sitting stance during the debate.