Translation and Meaning of: 悲鳴 - himei

The Japanese word 「悲鳴」 (himei) is an expression composed of two ideograms that reflect the depth of its meaning. The first character, 「悲」(hi), means "sadness" or "lament." This kanji has its roots in the ideogram 原 (gen) which refers to "source" or "origin," and 心 (kokoro) which means "heart," combining the idea of a feeling of sadness that arises from the heart. The second character, 「鳴」(mei), refers to "sound" or "scream," and relates to the radical 口 (kuchi), which means "mouth," indicating a vocalized sound.

Na interpretação literal, "悲鳴" can be translated as "scream of sadness," and is often used to describe a sudden vocal reaction, typically of pain, fear, or shock. It is a strong expression that conveys not only a physical sound but also an intense emotional state. In many contexts, it evokes the image of someone or something in danger or suffering, highlighting the emotional aspect involved in the act of screaming.

The use of the word 「悲鳴」 is quite common in dramatic narratives, such as in horror movies or tragic scenes, where an uncontrollable scream arises in response to a terrifying situation. In classical Japanese literature, for example, these screams are often used to illustrate human suffering in its most visceral form. Moreover, himei is a word that, when vocalized, carries a unique emotional and sonic weight, amplifying the impact in situations where it is used.

In cultural analysis, the term 「悲鳴」 can also be associated with artistic expressions, especially in Japanese theater, where the use of sound is crucial to convey deep emotions. Screams, or himei, are artistic instruments that help engage the audience, establishing a direct emotional connection. In historical summaries, these elements show how the Japanese language relies heavily on its characters not only to communicate but also to evoke deep images and feelings.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 叫び声 (Sakebigoe) - Cry; loud voice, generally expressing intense emotion.
• わめき声 (Wamekigoe) - Screaming voice; often implies an uncontrolled or annoying sound.
• うめき声 (Umekigoe) - Moan; a sound that expresses pain or discomfort.

悲鳴

Romaji: himei
Kana: ひめい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: shout; scream

Meaning in English: shriek;scream

Definition: A voice that emanates from sadness or fear.

Example Sentences - (悲鳴) himei

See below some example sentences:

悲鳴が聞こえた。

Himei ga kikoeta

I heard a scream of pain.

I heard a scream.

• 悲鳴 - means "scream of anguish" or "scream of pain"
• が - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 聞こえた - verb that means "to hear" or "to listen" in the past