年輪
Meanings
annual tree ring; growth ring
Refers to the concentric rings visible in a cross-section of a tree trunk, each representing one year of growth.
Counting the tree rings on this tree reveals it is over a hundred years old.
The width of a growth ring reflects the climate of that year.
life experience; accumulated wisdom
Figurative use, likening a person's accumulated experience and maturity to the rings of a tree. Often used in literary or reflective contexts.
Years of hardship are etched into his face like tree rings.
As one accumulates life experience, one's way of thinking also changes.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉に年輪が刻まれるgrowth rings are etched into (a tree)
This tree has a hundred years' worth of growth rings etched into it.
- 年輪を数えるto count growth rings (to determine a tree's age)
I counted the growth rings on the stump to find out the tree's age.
- 年輪を重ねるto accumulate years of life experience (figurative)
He is a business leader who has accumulated many years of experience.