Translation and Meaning of: 初耳 - hatsumimi

The expression 「初耳」 (hatsumimi) is a Japanese word that means "to hear something for the first time" or "novelty." This word is composed of two kanji: 「初」 (hatsu), which means "first" or "initial," and 「耳」 (mimi), which means "ear." The combination of these ideograms literally translates to "first ear." The etymology of the word reflects its use in the Japanese language, indicating the first time someone hears information or comes into contact with a novelty.

The kanji 「初」 is often used in Japanese to denote the beginning of something, being common in words like 「初恋」 (hatsukoi), which means "first love." The kanji 「耳」 is quite straightforward, referring to the part of the body responsible for hearing. The combination of these two kanji in the word 「初耳」 creates a term that is used to express surprise or admiration when hearing something new or unknown. This can be an interesting fact or information that was previously unknown.

In practice, "初耳" often carries a tone of surprise or astonishment, something like "Ah, this is new to me!". It is an expression frequently used in informal conversations when someone learns something new and unexpected. Thus, the word not only conveys the idea of novelty but also a reaction to it, usually positive or curious. In daily Japanese life, hearing someone say "初耳" is indicative that the information shared is, indeed, fresh and has not been disseminated previously.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 新鮮 (shinsen) - Fresh; something that is new and pleasant.
• 初めて聞く (hajimete kiku) - Hearing for the first time.
• 初めて知る (hajimete shiru) - Discovering or learning something for the first time.
• 初めて耳にする (hajimete mimi ni suru) - Hearing something for the first time, often used for information.
• 初めての情報 (hajimete no jouhou) - Information that is new or unknown to someone.
• 初めての知識 (hajimete no chishiki) - Knowledge that is acquired for the first time.

初耳

Romaji: hatsumimi
Kana: はつみみ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: something heard for the first time

Meaning in English: something heard for the first time

Definition: Listening for the first time. Things to know for the first time.

Example Sentences - (初耳) hatsumimi

See below some example sentences:

初耳です。

Hatsumimi desu

This is the first time I hear about it.

This is the first ear.

• 初 - means "first" or "initial".
• 耳 - means "ear".
• です - It is a final particle that indicates an affirmative statement or a formal presentation.