Translation and Meaning of: お兄さん - oniisan

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word お兄さん (oniisan) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: oniisan

Kana: おにいさん

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n5

お兄さん

Translation / Meaning: older brother; (vocative) "Lord?"

Meaning in English: older brother;(vocative) "Mister?"

Definition: Honorary titles and addresses for men to men. How to address a close man.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (お兄さん) oniisan

The term 「お兄さん」 (oniisan) is used in Japanese to refer to an older brother or a young man, often in a respectful or friendly manner. The word is composed of two kanji: 「兄」 (ani) which means "older brother" and the honorific prefix 「お」 (o), which is added to convey a nuance of respect or politeness. The 「さん」 (san) at the end is a suffix used to indicate respect, similar to "Mr." or "Ms." in some Western cultures.

The etymology of this term is deeply rooted in the traditional Japanese family structure, where respect for age and position hierarchies is highly valued. The kanji 「兄」 is metaphorically related to the concept of family balance and harmony. The presence of the respectful suffix 「さん」 suggests a courteous address, usually used when referring to non-family members or older brothers in a more formal or polite context.

In everyday life in Japan, the word 「お兄さん」 is often used by children to call their older brothers or even by younger people when interacting with slightly older men in a friendly or casual context. It is interesting to note that, in various cultures, the role of the older brother is predominantly associated with responsibility and protection, traits that are reflected in the use of this word in Japan.

Moreover, 「お兄さん」 can be used in commercial establishments to get the attention of a younger male employee, demonstrating how broad the use of the term can be. The inherent politeness of the prefix 「お」 and the suffix 「さん」 imbues the term with a respectful quality that allows its use in various social interactions.

Synonyms and similar words

兄貴 (Aniki) - An informal and respectful term used to refer to an older brother, often used in contexts among friends or in more intimate settings.
兄さん (Niisan) - Respectful term for older brother, used in slightly more formal situations or when there is a relationship of respect.
お兄ちゃん (Oniichan) - A colloquial and affectionate term for older brother, often used by children or in endearing contexts.
お兄様 (Oniisama) - A very formal and respectful term for older brothers, often used in contexts of high respect or between people of different social classes.
お兄さん方 (Oniisan-gata) - Respectful plural form to refer to older siblings, used to include a group of siblings in formal or polite conversations.