Translation and Meaning of: 唇 - kuchibiru

The Japanese word 唇[くちびる] is a common term that sparks curiosity both for its kanji writing and its practical use. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is perceived in Japanese culture. Moreover, you will discover tips for memorizing this word and contexts where it frequently appears. If you are learning Japanese or simply interested in the language, this guide from Suki Nihongo will help you better understand this expression.

Meaning and writing of 唇 [くちびる]

唇 [くちびる] means "lips" in Portuguese and is composed of the kanji 唇, which represents this part of the body. The kun'yomi reading is くちびる (kuchibiru), while the less common on'yomi is シン (shin). This kanji is not one of the most frequently used in daily life, but it appears in medical, poetic, or descriptive contexts.

It is worth noting that, although the kanji exists, many Japanese people choose to write the word only in hiragana (くちびる) for simplicity. This is especially true in informal conversations or when the kanji is considered too complex for the context. If you are starting to learn Japanese, focusing on the hiragana version can be a useful initial strategy.

Origin and curiosities about the word

The etymology of 唇[くちびる] directly refers to the combination of 口 (くち - mouth) and 縁 (へり - edge), forming the idea of "edge of the mouth." This construction makes sense when we consider the lips as the part that defines the oral opening. The kanji 唇, in turn, is composed of the radical 口 (mouth) and 辰 (a character associated with movement or time, but here mainly acting as a phonetic element).

An interesting curiosity is that in Japan, lips are often associated with health and expressiveness. For example, in dry climates, it's common to see people using lip moisturizers, reflecting a cultural concern for appearance and well-being. Moreover, in mangas and animes, the way lips are drawn can convey subtle emotions, such as determination or shyness.

How to use 唇[くちびる] in everyday sentences

In everyday conversations, くちびる appears in various contexts, from personal care to metaphorical expressions. For example, 唇を噛む (kuchibiru o kamu) means "to bite one's lips," which can indicate frustration or hesitation. Meanwhile, 唇が乾く (kuchibiru ga kawaku) describes dry lips, a common situation in the Japanese winter.

Another frequent use is in beauty or health descriptions, such as in 唇の色 (kuchibiru no iro - lip color) or 唇を潤す (kuchibiru o uruosu - hydrate the lips). If you are learning Japanese, practicing these expressions can enrich your vocabulary and help in real situations, such as buying a lip balm at a Japanese pharmacy.