陰影

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 陰影, read いんえい, pairs shade 陰 with shadow 影 to denote contrast between light and dark.
• Basic usage: 顔の陰影 is the contrast of light and dark, while figurative 物語の陰影 can mean depth and subtle variation.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Distinguishing meanings
  • In art it focuses on the relationship of light and shade together, broader than one shadow 影.