Translation and Meaning of: 頬っぺた - hoppeta

Etymology and Definition

The Japanese word 「頬っぺた」(hoppeta) is derived from 「頬」(hoo), which means "cheek." The suffix 「っぺた」is a variation that adds a more colloquial and affectionate tone to the expression, something akin to "little cheek" in some languages. In Japan, this form is often used in informal contexts, especially with children or in situations that evoke affection.

Use and Occurrence

「頬っぺた」is used to describe the cute and rounded part of the face that stands out when smiling or closing the lips. Culturally, cheeks are seen as an adorable trait, which justifies the affectionate tone of the word. This particularity of Japanese culture can be observed in various everyday expressions and in art, where cheeks symbolize youth and health.

History and Culture

The evolution of the word "頬っぺた" can be understood within the broader context of Japanese languages, where diminutive or affectionate elements are common. In Japanese literature and animation, flushed cheeks are often associated with intense emotions such as embarrassment or love. This visual representation helps convey feelings in a way that transcends language barriers, making "hoppeta" a word rich in emotional significance beyond its literal meaning.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• ほっぺた (hoppe-ta) - Side part of the face, usually referring to the cheeks.
• 頬 (ho) - Part of the face, specifically referring to the cheek, which can be more formal.
• ほお (hoo) - Another way to refer to the cheek, generally used in more colloquial contexts.

頬っぺた

Romaji: hoppeta
Kana: ほっぺた
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: cheek

Meaning in English: cheek

Definition: cheek area.

Example Sentences - (頬っぺた) hoppeta

See below some example sentences:

頬っぺたが赤くなった。

Hohooppeta ga akaku natta

My cheeks turned red.

• 頬っぺた - cheeks
• が - subject particle
• 赤く - red
• なった - became