豚 — meaning in English: Pig

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

Guess the translation for pig

豚

buta

ガード

gādo

洞察力

dōsatsuryoku

過去

kako

努力

doryoku

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informal very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 豚 (buta) in casual conversations about food, particularly when discussing dishes like tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) or yakiniku (grilled meat). It can also arise in farming contexts when talking about animals, as well as in children's stories or fables where pigs play a significant role.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 豚 is 猪 (inoshishi), which refers to wild boar. While both terms relate to swine, 豚 specifically denotes domesticated pigs, primarily seen in culinary contexts, whereas 猪 tends to be used in discussions pertaining to wild animals or hunting.

Culture

The word 豚 (buta) has a fascinating etymology that can be traced back to ancient Chinese, where it was associated with domesticated swine. In Japan, pigs hold cultural significance, particularly in the context of zodiac signs, as the pig is the last animal in the 12-year cycle, symbolizing wealth and good fortune in Japanese culture. Interestingly, in some regions of Japan, there are festivals celebrating pigs, showcasing their importance in rural traditions.

FAQ

Q.What is the pronunciation of 豚 in English?

The word 豚 is pronounced as 'buta' in English, with an emphasis on the first syllable.

Q.How do you use 豚 in a sentence?

You can use 豚 in a sentence like '私は豚肉が好きです' (Watashi wa butaniku ga suki desu), which means 'I like pork.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 豚?

A common mistake is confusing 豚 (buta) with other meat terms like 牛 (ushi, meaning cow) or 鶏 (tori, meaning chicken). Remember that 豚 specifically refers to pigs and their meat.

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