枝

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The spelling is 枝, read えだ, and it is a noun for a branch growing out from the stem or trunk of a tree or other plant.
• Basic usage: The basic sense of 枝 is a plant branch that extends from the main stem and bears leaves, flowers, or fruit.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• An offshoot distinct from the main trunk
  • Both examples use the form 枝. It refers to a part extending sideways from the main woody axis, in contrast with 幹, the trunk.
• A thin perch and branches trimmed back from a garden
  • 鳥が細い枝に止まっています。 — A bird is perched on a thin branch.
  • 庭に伸びた木の枝を短く切りました。 — I trimmed the tree branches extending into the garden.