宇宙

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 宇宙 is read うちゅう and refers to the universe as a whole or the vast space beyond Earth.
• Basic usage: It is used when contemplating the universe under the night sky or in an exhibit explaining its origin.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Universe and space
  • Universe fits when referring to the origin of the whole cosmos, as in 宇宙の誕生. In a travel context such as 宇宙旅行, space is used, as in space travel.