Word: Shamisen
Definition:
The shamisen is a Japanese musical instrument. It looks a bit like a banjo and has a long neck with three strings. Instead of frets like a guitar, it has a fingerboard where players press the strings. The soundbox (the part that makes the sound) is rectangular. Musicians play the shamisen using a special pick called a plectrum.
Usage Instructions:
- As a noun: You can use "shamisen" to talk about the instrument itself. For example, "I heard a beautiful shamisen performance last night."
Example Sentence:
"The musician skillfully played the shamisen, captivating the audience with its unique sound."
Advanced Usage:
In advanced contexts, you might discuss the shamisen in relation to Japanese culture, traditional music, and performance art. You could say, "The shamisen is integral to traditional Japanese theater forms like Bunraku and Kabuki."
Word Variants:
- There are no direct variants of the word "shamisen," but you might encounter different styles or types of shamisen, such as "Tsugaru shamisen," which is a specific style known for its fast playing.
Different Meanings:
The word "shamisen" specifically refers to this musical instrument and does not have other meanings in English.
Synonyms:
There aren’t exact synonyms for "shamisen" in English since it is a specific instrument, but you could refer to similar stringed instruments like "banjo" if discussing instruments in general.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
There are no idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "shamisen." However, you might use phrases like "to play the shamisen" or "to master the shamisen," which simply mean to perform or become skilled at playing this instrument.
Summary:
The shamisen is a unique and culturally significant instrument in Japan. It has three strings and a long neck, and is played with a plectrum. While it resembles a banjo, its sound and playing style are distinct.