Translation and Meaning of: ハンサム - hansamu

The word 「ハンサム」 (hansamu) is a transliteration of the English term “handsome.” This term is used to describe the physical appearance of a man who is considered attractive or good-looking. The adoption of English words is a common practice in Japan, especially since the modern era, resulting in a phenomenon known as "gairaigo" (外来語), which refers to foreign words incorporated into the Japanese language.

Etymologically, "ハンサム" (hansamu) arrived in Japanese in the early 20th century, when the West began to exert an increasing influence on Japanese culture. This word is an example of how characteristics of Western culture were assimilated and adapted in the Japanese context. Initially, the term may have referred not only to physical beauty but also to a certain charm or sophistication that was valued in men.

Use and Connotations

Although the word "ハンサム" (hansamu) is more often used in relation to male appearance, the use of the term can vary. In some situations, it may indicate a character or an elegant presence, rather than just beauty. There are also other related expressions, such as:

"イケメン" (ikemen) - which is often used to describe good-looking and attractive men, usually with a younger connotation.
"美男子" (bidan-shi) - means "handsome man", often referring to a man who is aesthetically pleasing.

The use of "ハンサム" (hansamu) reflects changes in cultural and aesthetic norms. While the word maintains its original connotation of beauty and attraction, it also carries a certain cultural weight that has developed as Japanese society adapted to and adopted Western influences. The continued use of this term demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of the Japanese language.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

イケメン (Ikemen) - Attractive man, usually young.
美男子 (Bidanshi) - Handsome man, with an emphasis on aesthetic beauty.
ナイスガイ (Naisugai) - Good boy, with a focus on personality.
カッコイイ (Kakkoii) - Stylish, attractive in general.
イケてる (Iketeru) - Cool, modern, trendy.
ハンサムな (Hansamu na) - Attractive man, often associated with a mature appearance.
良い男 (Yoi otoko) - Good man, with an emphasis on good qualities.
グッドルッキング (Guddorukkingu) - Handsome man.
男前 (Otomomae) - Handsome man, often referring to a traditional type of beauty.
立派な男性 (Rippa na dansei) - Respectable, considerable, and admired man.
魅力的な男性 (Miryokuteki na dansei) - Charismatic man who attracts with his charm.
かっこいい男性 (Kakkoii dansei) - Stylish man, similar use to カッコイイ.
セクシーな男性 (Sekushī na dansei) - Sexy man, attractively seductive.
美しい男性 (Utsukushii dansei) - Handsome man, emphasizing beauty.
洒落た男性 (Shareta dansei) - Elegant and well-dressed man.
素敵な男性 (Suteki na dansei) - Wonderful or charming man.
イケメンな男性 (Ikemen na dansei) - Attractive man, with an emphasis on youth.
美形 (Bikei) - Physical beauty, often referring to symmetrical features.
美青年 (Biseinen) - Beautiful young man.
美人男子 (Bijin danshi) - Man who is considered beautiful like a beautiful woman.
美男 (Bidan) - Handsome man, a more generic term.
美形男子 (Bikei danshi) - Man with remarkable aesthetic beauty.
美男美女 (Bidan bijo) - Beautiful man and woman, often used as a couple.