Translation and Meaning of: 年寄り - toshiyori

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about Japanese culture, you may have come across the word 年寄り (としより). It is used to refer to elderly people, but carries nuances that go beyond the simple translation. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and usage of this word in everyday Japanese, as well as understand how it is perceived socially. If you are looking for accurate information about 年寄り, you have come to the right place – Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary.

Meaning and origin of 年寄り

The word 年寄り is composed of the kanji 年 (toshi, "year" or "age") and 寄り (yori, derived from the verb 寄る, meaning "to approach"). Together, they form a term that literally suggests someone who is approaching many years of life, or in other words, an elderly person. Unlike words like 老人 (roujin), which also means "elderly," 年寄り has a more colloquial tone and, in some contexts, may sound less formal.

Historically, 年寄り was used in villages and communities to designate the older members, who often took on leadership roles or acted as advisors. This usage reflects the appreciation of experience and wisdom in traditional Japanese culture. Today, the word still appears in expressions such as 年寄りの冷や水 (toshiyori no hiyamizu), a proverb that warns the elders not to act like the young, avoiding unnecessary risks.

Everyday lies and cultural perception

In contemporary Japan, 年寄り is a common word, but its use requires some sensitivity. Although it is not offensive in itself, the tone and context can make a difference. In informal conversations, you might hear phrases like 年寄りには難しい (toshiyori ni wa muzukashii – "it's difficult for the elderly"), but in more formal situations, terms like 高齢者 (koureisha) are preferable as they sound more respectful.

It is worth noting that, with the aging of the Japanese population, discussions about the treatment of the elderly have become relevant. The word 年寄り, therefore, is not just a linguistic term, but also a reflection of how society deals with the elderly. In animes and dramas, for example, it can appear in both affectionate contexts and in jokes, depending on the author's intention.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

If you want to remember the word 年寄り, a useful tip is to associate it with the kanji 年, which also appears in terms like 年月日 (nengappi, "date") and 年末 (nenmatsu, "end of the year"). This connection helps to remember that the word is linked to the passage of time. Another strategy is to practice with everyday sentences, such as あの年寄りは元気だ (ano toshiyori wa genki da – "that elderly person is full of energy").

An interesting curiosity is that, in some regional dialects, such as Osaka's, the pronunciation may vary slightly, sounding more like "toshiyoru". Furthermore, in certain historical contexts, 年寄り has been used to refer to samurai advisors, showing how its meaning has evolved over the centuries. If you are interested in Japanese, it's worth exploring these nuances to better understand the language and culture.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 老人 (Rōjin) - Elderly person, usually referring to older individuals.
• 高齢者 (Kōrei-sha) - Elderly person, often used in formal and statistical contexts.
• シニア (Shinia) - Senior, a term often used in social and commercial contexts, such as in programs for the elderly.
• 老いた人 (Oita hito) - Aged person, emphasizing the condition of having aged.
• 年配者 (Nenpai-sha) - Older person, a more neutral term referring to someone older without specifying age.

年寄り

Romaji: toshiyori
Kana: としより
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: elderly; the elderly

Meaning in English: old people;the aged

Definition: A person who has aged.

Example Sentences - (年寄り) toshiyori

See below some example sentences:

年寄りは尊敬すべき存在です。

Toshiyori wa sonkei subeki sonzai desu

The elderly are a respectable presence.

The elderly are respected.

• 年寄り - means "old person" in Japanese.
• は - Grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 尊敬 - means "respect" in Japanese.
• すべき - verb form that indicates an obligation or duty.
• 存在 - means "existence" in Japanese.
• です - Verb "to be" in the present tense.