紅白
Meanings
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
red and white; festive colors
Refers to the combination of red and white, traditionally used for celebrations and auspicious occasions in Japan.
Red and white curtains were decorating the venue.
Red and white steamed buns are often served at celebratory occasions.
two teams (red and white); two groups
Used when dividing participants into two opposing sides, typically labeled red and white, as in sports days or competitions.
At the sports day, we split into red and white teams and compete.
I will announce the team assignments for red and white.
Kōhaku Uta Gassen; NHK Red and White Song Contest
Abbreviation for 紅白歌合戦, the famous annual New Year's Eve music show on NHK featuring popular singers divided into red (female) and white (male) teams.
See also: 紅白歌合戦
The lineup for this year's Kōhaku Uta Gassen has been announced.
It's a tradition to watch the Kōhaku with the family on New Year's Eve.
Usage patterns
- 紅白の〈物〉red-and-white ~ (used for decorations, food, etc. at celebrations)
Red-and-white curtains were hung up in the ceremony hall.
- 〈人〉が紅白に分かれるfor people to split into red and white teams
At the sports day, everyone was split into red and white teams to compete.
- 紅白に出るto appear/perform on the Kōhaku Song Contest
That idol group is set to appear on Kōhaku for the first time this year.
- 紅白の司会を務めるto serve as the host/emcee of Kōhaku
She served as the host of Kōhaku for three years in a row.