未亡人 — meaning in English: widow

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

Guess the translation for widow

地平線

chiheisen

岩

iwa

チャーター

chātā

失望

shitsubō

未亡人

mibōjin

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formal common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 未亡人 (mibōjin) in formal or respectful contexts, such as during discussions about family matters or in literature. For example, you might encounter this term in a condolence message or in historical novels depicting the lives of women in traditional Japanese society.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 夫人 (fujin), which means 'lady' or 'wife' and can refer to women regardless of their marital status. However, 夫人 lacks the specific connotation of loss associated with 未亡人. You would choose 未亡人 when specifically discussing a woman who has lost her spouse.

Culture

The term 未亡人 (mibōjin) literally translates to 'unmarried woman' or 'woman who has lost her husband.' In Japanese culture, widows have historically been viewed with a mix of sympathy and social complexity, often reflecting the broader societal attitudes towards mourning and remarriage. Additionally, the character 未 (mi) signifies 'not yet,' implying a state of being that is incomplete or unresolved, which can evoke a sense of lingering grief.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of the Japanese word 未亡人?

未亡人 (mibōjin) means 'widow' in English, referring specifically to a woman whose husband has died.

Q.How do you use 未亡人 in a sentence?

You can use 未亡人 in a sentence such as, '彼女は未亡人になった。' (Kanojo wa mibōjin ni natta.), which means 'She became a widow.'

Q.Are there common mistakes when using 未亡人?

A common mistake is using 未亡人 in casual contexts, as it carries a formal tone. It's best suited for respectful discussions about loss or in literary works.

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