橋桁

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 橋桁 is read as はしげた and is a noun for a bridge girder, the horizontal beam supporting the bridge deck and carrying its load.
• Basic usage: Checking for cracks appears in 橋桁を点検する, while transporting the girder appears in 橋桁を運ぶ.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Horizontal bridge support
  • It identifies the horizontal member supporting the deck, not every structure beneath a bridge.
• Difference from 橋脚
  • It should be distinguished from a vertical bridge pier that supports the girders from below.