laugh

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 笑 has 10 strokes and denotes laughing or a smiling expression.
• Basic usage: 笑う is read わらう, and 笑顔 is read えがお.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Laughter, ridicule, and a smile
  • 声を上げて笑う means laughing out loud.
  • 失敗を笑う means laughing at failure.
  • Depending on its object, the expression can convey ridicule.
  • 笑顔で means with a smile.
  • In this example, で indicates the expression or manner used to welcome a guest.