大黒柱
Meanings
1
central pillar; main pillar
The large central pillar in traditional Japanese architecture that supports the main beam. Used literally.
The central pillar of the old farmhouse was thick and impressive.
2
Figurative use for a person or thing that is the central support of a group, family, or organization. Often refers to the breadwinner or key figure.
My father works every day as the mainstay of our family.
Agriculture is the backbone of the economy in this region.
Usage patterns
- 一家の大黒柱the breadwinner/mainstay of a family
My father works as the breadwinner of the family.
- 大黒柱を立てるto erect the central pillar (in traditional house construction)
They erect the central pillar before the roof-raising ceremony.
- 大黒柱になるto become the mainstay/backbone (of a family or organization)
My older brother became the mainstay of the family.
- 大黒柱が倒れるfor the main breadwinner to fall ill or die, leaving the family without support
With the breadwinner incapacitated, the family's life became difficult.