Translation and Meaning of: 背広 - sebiro
On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 背広 (sebiro) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.
Romaji: sebiro
Kana: せびろ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n5
Translation / Meaning: business attire
Meaning in English: business suit
Definition: Suit composed of a jacket and pants to be worn in business situations.
Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases
Explanation and Etymology - (背広) sebiro
The word 「背広」 (sebiro) is a Japanese term that refers to a classic style of suit or Western attire. It is composed of two kanji: 「背」 which means "back" or "rear," and 「広」 which means "wide" or "extensive." The combination of these characters may initially seem a bit enigmatic, as it does not translate directly to a clothing-related element. However, the term gains meaning when referring to the familiar shape and fit of Western suits that came to Japan in the late 19th century.
The origin of the term 「背広」 is rooted in the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan began to adopt many aspects of Western culture. During this era of rapid modernization, the Japanese started to wear Western clothing in formal and business situations. The word seems to have emerged as a neologism to describe these garments, which differ significantly from traditional Japanese clothing like the kimono. The choice of characters is speculated to have a connection with the wide silhouette and coverage that suits provide, contrasting with the more fitted nature of traditional Nipponese clothing.
Interestingly, the word 「背広」 has an intriguing relationship with the English term "Savile Row," a famous street in London known for its shops specializing in custom suit tailoring. There are theories suggesting that 「背広」 could be a phonetic corruption or an adapted loanword from that name, although this is more popular speculation than a historically confirmed fact. Be that as it may, this association highlights the role of foreign influences in the evolution of terminology and Japanese clothing during the Meiji era.
Nowadays, 「背広」 is still used in Japan to refer to two or three-button suits, often seen in business contexts. This style of clothing remains an important part of professional attire, reflecting a blend of functionality and tradition. The word also symbolizes the adaptation of Japanese culture to Western styles over time, showing how language and clothing can be influenced by cultural and economic changes.
Synonyms and similar words
- スーツ (suutsu) - Formal Western attire, usually worn in work environments.
- 着物 (kimono) - Traditional Japanese clothing, characterized by its wide sleeves and sash (obi), worn on various occasions.
Words related
Words with the same pronunciation: せびろ sebiro
How to Write in Japanese - (背広) sebiro
See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese (背広) sebiro:
Example Sentences - (背広) sebiro
Below are some example sentences:
Watashi wa sebiro o kite kaigi ni shusseki shimasu
I'm going to wear a suit and attend the meeting.
I will attend the meeting wearing a suit.
- 私 - Japanese personal pronoun meaning "I"
- は - Japanese particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
- 背広 - Japanese noun meaning "suit"
- を - Japanese particle that indicates the direct object of the sentence
- 着て - Japanese verb meaning "to put on"
- 会議 - Japanese noun meaning "meeting"
- に - Japanese particle indicating the place where the action takes place
- 出席します - Japanese verb meaning "to attend"
Other words of the same type: noun
See other words from our dictionary that are also: noun
