兄 — meaning in English: Brother

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Guess the translation for brother

市長

shichō

収入

shūnyū

経営

keiei

兄

ani

動機

dōki

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informal very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 兄 (ani) in familial contexts, such as during family gatherings or conversations about siblings. For instance, if someone is sharing a story about their older brother, they might say, 'My 兄 is very supportive.' This term is also commonly used among friends when discussing their family members.

Synonyms & nuances

兄 (ani) specifically denotes an older brother, while 弟 (otōto) refers to a younger brother. Choosing 兄 over 弟 is crucial depending on the age hierarchy within the family, as it reflects respect and familial roles.

Culture

The character 兄 (ani) has deep roots in Japanese culture and is often associated with the concept of brotherhood, loyalty, and support. Interestingly, the term is not only used for biological brothers but can also refer to close friends or peers who share a brotherly bond, highlighting the importance of relationships in Japanese society.

FAQ

Q.What does 兄 mean in Japanese?

The word 兄 (ani) means 'older brother' in Japanese, used to refer to one's elder male sibling in both formal and informal contexts.

Q.How do you use 兄 in a sentence?

You can use 兄 in a sentence like '私の兄は大学生です' (Watashi no ani wa daigakusei desu) which translates to 'My older brother is a college student.'

Q.Is 兄 used in formal situations?

While 兄 (ani) is primarily informal, it can be used in neutral contexts. However, for more formal situations, one might use 兄上 (aniue), an honorific form, especially when addressing others respectfully.

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