Translation and Meaning of: 母親 - hahaoya

The Japanese word 「母親」 (hahaoya) is a term that designates "mother" or "genitor," referring to the maternal figure. The etymology of the word reveals its components: 「母」 (haha), which means "mother," and 「親」 (oya), which signifies "parent" or "relative." Together, these kanji form an expression that emphasizes the importance and vital role of the mother in the family. This term highlights not only the biological bond but also the emotional and social component associated with motherhood in Japanese culture.

In the Japanese language, the choice of kanji is deliberate and sheds light on deep cultural values. The kanji 「母」 representing "mother," is formed by lines that resemble the figure of a mother with a child, symbolizing care and protection. The kanji 「親」, which can be decomposed into two significant radicals, involves the idea of closeness or kinship and emphasizes the mother's position as the pillar of the family structure. This combination is used not only to refer to the physiological aspect but also to incorporate the social and relational dimension that motherhood plays.

The origin and use of the term 「母親」 are not limited to everyday language, but are also evident in Japanese art and literature, where the maternal figure is often depicted as a symbol of devotion and wisdom. This is evident in many folk tales and cultural documentaries that exalt the dedication and sacrifice inherent in the role of a mother. Beyond the term 「母親」, other variations like 「お母さん」 (okaasan) and 「母上」 (hahaue) are used in different contexts, each carrying nuances of respect, formality, and affection.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• お母さん (okaasan) - Mother (affectionate and respectful form)
• 母 (haha) - Mother (more traditional form, can be used in formal contexts)
• 母親さん (hashiya-san) - Mother (an even more respectful form, usually used in formal contexts)

母親

Romaji: hahaoya
Kana: ははおや
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: mother

Meaning in English: mother

Definition: A woman who gave birth to her son.

Example Sentences - (母親) hahaoya

See below some example sentences:

私の母親はとても優しいです。

Watashi no hahaoya wa totemo yasashii desu

My mother is very kind.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• の (no) - particle that indicates possession, equivalent to "of"
• 母親 (hahaoya) - noun meaning "mother"
• は (wa) - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• とても (totemo) - adverb meaning "very"
• 優しい (yasashii) - adjective meaning "kind"
• です (desu) - auxiliary verb that indicates the present tense and formality of the sentence