妻 — meaning in English: wife

tsuma · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for wife

支出

Shishutsu

強

kyō

神話

shinwa

能力

nōryoku

妻

tsuma

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use 妻 (tsuma) when discussing their spouses in both casual and formal settings. For instance, at a family gathering, someone might refer to their 妻 while introducing her to others. In a professional context, a husband may mention his 妻 when discussing family matters during a business meeting.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym to 妻 is 奥さん (okusan), which is often used in informal situations. However, 妻 tends to carry a more formal tone, making it suitable for official contexts or when you want to express a sense of gravity about marital relationships.

Culture

The word 妻 (tsuma) has deep roots in Japanese culture, reflecting the traditional view of marriage as a partnership. Historically, this term implies not only a marital relationship but also carries connotations of duty and familial responsibility, showcasing the importance of family in Japanese society. Interestingly, it can also evoke warmth and affection, making it a term of endearment in many contexts.

FAQ

Q.What is the correct pronunciation of 妻?

The correct pronunciation of 妻 is 'tsuma'. The 'ts' sound is pronounced like the 'ts' in 'cats', followed by 'uma' as in 'suma'.

Q.Can I use 妻 to refer to my girlfriend?

No, 妻 specifically means 'wife' in Japanese. For a girlfriend, you would use 彼女 (kanojo) instead, which means 'she' or 'her' as well.

Q.Is 妻 used in both spoken and written Japanese?

Yes, 妻 is commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese. It’s appropriate in everyday conversations as well as in more formal writing, such as letters or documents.

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