引き
Meanings
Refers to the act of pulling, or more abstractly to one's pull or influence in social or business contexts. Often used in phrases like 引きが強い (to have strong connections/influence).
He has strong connections in the political world.
This door is heavy to pull.
Specifically a short, sharp pull. Often used in contexts like tug-of-war or a sudden pull on something.
I felt a strong tug on the fishing rod.
room to pull back (camera)
Photography term: the space or distance available to move the camera backward to frame a shot. Also used in filmmaking.
This studio doesn't have enough room to pull the camera back.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉の引きでthanks to someone's pull or connections
He got into that company through his father's connections.
- 〈物〉に引きを感じるto feel a tug on something
I felt a strong tug on the fishing line.
- 〈場所〉の引きが足りないnot to have enough room to pull the camera back
This studio doesn't have enough room to pull the camera back.
- 引きを使うto use one's pull or connections
He used his political connections to get permission.