Translation and Meaning of: 大人 - otona

The Japanese word 大人 [おとな] is an essential term for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, you will discover interesting facts about its cultural usage and even tips for memorizing it effectively. If you’re looking to better understand this expression, you’ve come to the right place – Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary.

Meaning and Translation of 大人

In its most basic form, 大人 means "adult" in Japanese. The word is composed of the kanjis 大 (big) and 人 (person), forming the idea of someone who has grown up, both physically and emotionally. Unlike Portuguese, where "adult" can have a more neutral tone, おとな carries nuances of maturity and responsibility.

It is worth noting that, although the literal translation is simple, the use of 大人 can vary depending on the context. In some situations, it may be used to refer to someone who acts wisely, not necessarily just by age. For example, saying "あの子は大人っぽい" (ano ko wa otona-ppoi) means "that child seems mature."

Origin and Cultural Use

The origin of the word 大人 dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), when the term began to be used to differentiate children from those who had reached adulthood. At that time, Japanese society placed a high value on the transition to adult life, marked by ceremonies such as the Seijin Shiki, which is still celebrated in Japan today.

Culturally, being 大人 goes beyond age. In Japan, it is expected that an adult demonstrates self-control, respect for social rules, and the ability to make thoughtful decisions. Therefore, it is common to hear expressions like "大人の対応" (otona no taiou), which refers to handling situations in a mature and diplomatic manner.

Tips for Memorizing and Using Correctly

An effective way to memorize the word 大人 is to associate it with its visual meaning. The kanji 大 represents something big, while 人 means person – together, they form the idea of a person who has "grown up." This simple association helps to remember both the writing and the meaning of the word.

Another tip is to pay attention to how the Japanese use 大人 in their daily lives. In animes and dramas, for example, it is common for characters to say "大人になる" (otona ni naru – "to become an adult") or "大人の事情" (otona no jijou – "adult matters"). Hearing these expressions in context makes it easier to internalize the vocabulary.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

成人 (Seijin) - Adult person; someone who has reached adulthood.
おとな (Otona) - Adult person; it can have a connotation of maturity or responsibility.
大きな人 (Ōkina Hito) - Big person; it can refer to an adult in a physical sense, but it doesn't necessarily emphasize maturity.
大人の方 (Otona no Kata) - Adult person; a more formal expression that refers to an adult respectfully.