winter

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 冬 means winter and is read ふゆ as an independent word.
• Basic usage: 冬になると means when winter comes, while 冬眠(とうみん) means hibernation.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Readings for the season and hibernation
  • The season name 冬 is read ふゆ, but the reading becomes とう in 冬眠. 冬眠 refers to animal hibernation, not ordinary sleep during winter.