Translation and Meaning of: お手伝いさん - otetsudaisan

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

Romaji: otetsudaisan

Kana: おてつだいさん

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n2

お手伝いさん

Translation / Meaning: housekeeper

Meaning in English: maid

Definition: A person who helps with various tasks at home or in the office.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (お手伝いさん) otetsudaisan

The expression 「お手伝いさん」 (otetsudaisan) is composed of three main elements: the honorific prefix 「お」 (o), the word 「手伝い」 (てつだい, tetsudai), which means "help" or "assistant," and the respectful suffix 「さん」 (san), used to indicate courtesy or respect. The combination of these components results in a polite and respectful way to refer to a person who provides assistance, often in the context of household tasks.

The origin of the word 「手伝い」 (tetsudai) traces back to the kanji 「手」 (て, te), which means "hand," and 「伝」 (つた, tsuta), which can be translated as "to transmit" or "to pass on." This combination suggests an action of transmitting or passing on through hands, which relates to the idea of providing support or assistance. The use of the honorific prefix 「お」 (o) and the suffix 「さん」 (san) adds a degree of courtesy and formality to the expression, which is very common in the Japanese language when addressing someone respectfully.

In Japan, the figure of 「お手伝いさん」 (otetsudaisan) is commonly associated with a person responsible for helping with daily tasks, especially in domestic settings. Historically, this role has evolved over the years, reflecting the social and economic changes in the country. Currently, the term can be used more broadly, encompassing not only domestic helpers but also assistants in different contexts. However, the essence of the expression remains the same: a demonstration of gratitude and respect for the assistance provided.

Synonyms and similar words

家政婦 (Kaseifu) - Housekeeper, usually dedicated to household tasks and family care.
メイド (Meido) - Employee, often used in Western contexts to refer to a maid, which can have a fantasy connotation in some cases.
お手伝い (O-tetsudai) - Helper generally refers to someone who assists with household tasks without being a formal employee.
女中 (Nachuu) - Old term for servant or maid, often associated with a lower social class.
下女 (Gajo) - A maid, often referring to a lower-class or status employee.
お手付きさん (O-tetsuki-san) - A somewhat more informal term that can denote an employee with a closer bond to the family in certain contexts.
ハウスキーパー (Hausukipā) - Housekeeper or person responsible for household management, in addition to performing domestic tasks.