Translation and Meaning of: 年頃 - toshigoro

The Japanese word 年頃[としごろ] is an interesting term that carries unique cultural and linguistic nuances. If you are studying Japanese or are simply curious about the language, understanding the meaning and usage of this expression can be quite enriching. In this article, we will explore everything from its basic meaning to how it is perceived in everyday Japanese life, including memorization tips and contexts of use.

In addition to uncovering what 年頃 literally means, we will also discuss how this word is used in different situations, whether in informal conversations or in more specific contexts. If you have come across this term in animes, dramas, or even in books, you will find out here why it is so relevant in the Japanese language.

Meaning and Translation of 年頃

年頃 [としごろ] can be translated in various ways, depending on the context. At its essence, the word refers to an "approximate age" or "age range." However, it can also indicate a specific period in life, such as adolescence or youth, when used to describe someone who is in a phase of transition or development.

It is worth highlighting that 年頃 (としごろ) is not limited to just numerical ages. In some cases, it carries a more subjective connotation, suggesting that someone is "of the right age" for something, such as marriage or certain responsibilities. This semantic flexibility makes the word quite versatile in the Japanese language.

Origin and Components of Kanji

The word 年頃 is composed of two kanji: 年 (toshi), which means "year" or "age," and 頃 (goro/koro), which can be translated as "approximately" or "period." Together, they form an expression that literally refers to "period of age" or "time of years," reinforcing the idea of a specific phase in life.

It is interesting to note that the kanji 頃 also appears in other words related to time and periods, such as この頃 (konogoro), which means "lately" or "these days". This connection helps to understand why 年頃 is so linked to notions of time and age ranges in the Japanese language.

Cultural Uses and Common Contexts

In Japan, 年頃 is often used to refer to young people who are entering adolescence or adulthood. For example, parents might say that their children are 年頃 when they start to show independence or romantic interests. This expression reflects the importance that Japanese society places on life transitions and age milestones.

Additionally, the word can appear in lighter contexts, such as in conversations about fashion or typical hobbies of certain ages. For example, someone might comment that a certain outfit is "for people of that 年頃," indicating a style associated with a specific age range. This usage demonstrates how the term is rooted in everyday life and Japanese cultural perception.

Tips to Memorize 年頃

An effective way to cement the meaning of 年頃 is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of sentences like "She is in the 年頃 to get married" or "My son is at that complicated 年頃." These examples help visualize how the word is used in daily life, making it easier to remember its application.

Another tip is to practice writing the kanjis that make up the word. Understanding that 年 means "age" and 頃 refers to "period" makes it easier to decipher the general meaning of 年頃. Repeating the reading out loud (としごろ) also helps with memorization, especially when combined with real usage examples.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 年ごろ (toshigoro) - ages (commonly used to indicate someone's age range)
• 年ごろごろ (toshigorogoro) - around the same age group (something more casual)
• 年ごろ頃 (toshigorokoro) - around the same age group (usage variant)
• 年ごろくらい (toshigorokurai) - approximately the same age
• 年ごろくらいの (toshigorokuraino) - around the same age range (expressing a state or condition)
• 年ごろぐらい (toshigorogurai) - around the same age
• 年ごろぐらいの (toshigoroguraino) - something that refers to a specific age group
• 年ごろっぽい (toshigoroppoi) - looking a certain age
• 年ごろらしい (toshigororashii) - seems to be of that age group
• 年頃くらい (nengorokurai) - approximately the same age (similar to the use of 年ごろくらい)
• 年頃くらいの (nengorokuraino) - around the same age group (indicates state or condition)
• 年頃ぐらい (nengorogurai) - around the same age (usage variant)
• 年頃ぐらいの (nengoroguraino) - refers to a specific age group
• 年頃っぽい (nengoroppoi) - appearing to be a certain age
• 年頃らしい (nengororashii) - being of the corresponding age group

年頃

Romaji: toshigoro
Kana: としごろ
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: age; Merry age; age of puberty; adolescence; for a few years

Meaning in English: age;marriageable age;age of puberty;adolescence;for some years

Definition: To have a certain age.