Translation and Meaning of: 嬢 - jyou

The Japanese word 嬢[じょう] is a term that sparks curiosity both for its kanji writing and its use in the Japanese language. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in Japanese culture, understanding the meaning and context of this expression can be quite helpful. In this article, we will explore everything from the basic meaning to cultural and practical aspects of 嬢[じょう], including how it is perceived in daily life.

In addition to uncovering what this word represents, we will discuss its origin, usage examples, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. Whether to enrich your vocabulary or satisfy your linguistic curiosity, this guide will help you understand 嬢[じょう] in a clear and straightforward way.

Meaning and usage of 嬢[じょう]

嬢[じょう] is a term that can be translated as "young lady" or "miss". It is often used as a respectful address for young women, especially in formal or commercial contexts. For example, you might hear this word in shops, restaurants, or even in public announcements.

It is worth noting that 嬢[じょう] carries a nuance of elegance and courtesy. Unlike other words that also refer to women, such as 女の子[おんなのこ] (girl) or 女性[じょせい] (woman), this expression tends to be more polite and somewhat more formal. However, its use is not so common in informal daily interactions among friends or family.

Origin and writing of the kanji 嬢

The kanji 嬢 is composed of the radical 女 (woman) combined with 將, suggesting an idea of "young" or "noble." This combination reflects well the meaning of the word, as it is associated with an image of a well-educated young lady or from a respectable family. Interestingly, this character is not one of the more frequent ones in modern Japanese, but it still appears in certain specific contexts.

It is interesting to note that, although 嬢 is the correct kanji, the word is often written only in hiragana (じょう) for simplicity. This usually happens in situations where the formality is a bit lower or when the audience may not be familiar with the more complex character.

Cultural context and memorization tips

In Japan, the use of 嬢[じょう] is associated with a certain formality and even a somewhat antiquated tone in some cases. You can find it in traditional establishments, such as ryokans (Japanese inns) or in advertisements that want to convey a more refined image. In contrast, among young people or in casual conversations, other expressions are more common.

To memorize this word, one tip is to associate the kanji 嬢 with the idea of "young lady." Repeating phrases like "お嬢さん[おじょうさん], こちらへどうぞ" (Miss, please come here) can help reinforce the term. Another strategy is to pay attention when you hear or read the word in dramas, mangas, or situations that simulate customer service.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• お嬢さん (Ojōsan) - Daughter of someone, usually used to refer to a young woman in a respectful manner.
• 令嬢 (Reijō) - Daughter of a prestigious family, often used in formal contexts.
• お嬢様 (Ojōsama) - A even more respectful way to refer to a young woman, often used by employees to refer to the daughter of their employers.
• 令嬢様 (Reijōsama) - The same as お嬢様, but emphasizing that the young woman is from a noble family.
• 娘 (Musume) - Daughter, used in a general and informal way.
• 娘さん (Musume-san) - A respectful way to refer to a daughter or young woman.
• 少女 (Shōjo) - Girl, generally referring to a young person up to adolescence.
• 女の子 (Onnanoko) - Girl in a more casual and colloquial context.
• 女子 (Joshi) - Refers to girls or young women, often in educational or sports contexts.
• 女性 (Josei) - Woman, a more general and formal term.
• 花嫁 (Hanayome) - Bride, specifically in the context of weddings.
• 新娘 (Shinnyō) - A Chinese word for bride, used in formal contexts.
• 花嫁候補 (Hanayome kōho) - Bride candidate, a reference to women who can be considered for marriage.
• 花婿 (Hanamuko) - Groom, in a wedding context.
• 新郎 (Shinrō) - Groom, a more formal way to refer to the man who is getting married.

嬢

Romaji: jyou
Kana: じょう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: young

Meaning in English: young woman

Definition: Term used to refer to young girls and women in a superior and elegant sense. Example: Artist, Dancer

Example Sentences - (嬢) jyou

See below some example sentences:

嬢は美しいです。

Jou wa utsukushii desu

The young woman is beautiful.

Miss is beautiful.

• 嬢 (jo) - means "young woman" or "girl"
• は (wa) - topic particle, indicates that "jo" is the theme of the sentence
• 美しい (utsukushii) - adjective that means "pretty" or "beautiful"
• です (desu) - verb "to be" in the present, indicates that the sentence is in the present tense and is a polite statement