縁起
Meanings
Refers to whether something is considered lucky or unlucky. Often used in phrases like 縁起がいい/悪い (good/bad omen) or 縁起を担ぐ (to be superstitious about luck).
Some people say it's a bad omen to see a black cat.
He is superstitious about luck and always wears the same socks before a match.
Refers to the origin or historical background of something, especially in a narrative or explanatory context. Less common than the omen sense in everyday speech.
The origin of this temple is recorded in an old scroll.
dependent arising; causality
Buddhist term, originally an abbreviation of 因縁生起. Refers to the doctrine that all phenomena arise from causes and conditions. Rare outside specialized contexts.
See also: 因縁生起
In Buddhism, the concept of dependent arising is one of the fundamental teachings.
Usage patterns
- 縁起を気にするto be concerned about (good or bad) luck
She's the type of person who worries a lot about luck.
- 〈物〉を縁起物として売るto sell something as a lucky charm/good-luck item
During New Year, daruma dolls are sold as lucky charms.