牌
Meanings
Refers to a flat, often inscribed object worn or displayed as a mark of honor, membership, or identification. Can be a medal, shield-shaped emblem, or badge.
He was awarded a gold medal in recognition of his achievements.
dharani card; card with sacred text
Buddhist term: a small card or plaque on which a dharani or other sacred text is written, often used as a protective talisman.
See also: 陀羅尼
Inside the amulet was a card on which a dharani was written.
In a Zen temple, a board used for posting notices or announcements.
The notice board at the Zen temple displayed the training schedule.
A playing piece used in games like mahjong or dominos. Often read as パイ in this context, but はい is also possible.
See also: 牌 (パイ)
We set up the mahjong tiles and started the game.
Usage patterns
- 牌を切るto discard a tile (in mahjong)
Since I've called riichi, I'm scared to discard my next tile.
- 牌を引くto draw a tile (in mahjong)
I draw a tile from the wall to arrange my hand.
- 牌を並べるto line up/arrange tiles
Before the game starts, we neatly line up the tiles.
Expressions
- 位牌を汚すdisgrace one's ancestors; tarnish the family honor