流
Meanings
Attaches to nouns to indicate a particular way of doing something, a style, or a method. Common in compounds like 自己流 (one's own style) or 日本流 (Japanese style).
He cooks in his own style.
This shop offers Japanese-style service.
Used for traditional schools or styles in arts, crafts, or disciplines, such as 華道 (flower arrangement) or 茶道 (tea ceremony).
She is learning ikebana of the Sogetsu school.
This tea bowl follows the tradition of the Raku school.
Often follows a number or a word like 一, 二, 上, 中, 下 to indicate a grade, rank, or class. Common in compounds like 一流 (first-class) or 二流 (second-rate).
See also: 一流
He is known as a first-class chef.
This hotel only offers third-rate service.
Used in technical or literary compounds to indicate a flow or current, such as 気流 (air current) or 海流 (ocean current). Less common as a standalone suffix.
Changes in the air current cause the plane to shake.
A warm current flows through this sea area.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉流に〈動詞〉to do something in one's own particular way
He adapted the recipe in his own style.
- 〈人〉の流を継ぐto inherit or carry on someone's school (of art, craft, etc.)
The son carries on his father's school and teaches calligraphy.
- 〈数〉流の〈人〉a person of a certain class or rank (first-rate, second-rate, etc.)
He's said to be a third-rate actor.
- 〈場所〉流の〈事〉a way of doing something characteristic of a country or region
I experienced Japanese-style hospitality.
Expressions
- 中流に舟を失えば一壺も千金any port in a storm; when you've lost your boat midstream, even a pot is worth a fortune
- 細工は流々仕上げを御覧じろdon't judge a work in progress; the end crowns the work