Translation and Meaning of: 他人 - adabito

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

Romaji: adabito

Kana: あだびと

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n1

他人

Translation / Meaning: another person; unrelated person; strange; unknown

Meaning in English: another person;unrelated person;outsider;stranger

Definition: Another is a word that refers to people or other beings besides you.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (他人) adabito

The Japanese word 「他人」 (romaji: tanin or adabito) has an interesting etymology that reflects unique cultural nuances of the Japanese language. 「他」 (tani) means "another" or "different," while 「人」 (hito) means "person." Together, they convey the idea of "another person" or "someone unrelated." The less common reading, 「あだびと」 (adabito), is more archaic and can be found in ancient texts and classical Japanese literature. This variation highlights the linguistic richness and the different nuances of meanings that the same combination of characters can have in the Japanese language.

In modern usage, 「他人」 (tanin) generally refers to people with whom one does not have a close relationship or intimacy, which can include both strangers and superficial acquaintances. This term is widely used in the Japanese social context, where interpersonal dynamics are often centered around clearly defined groups and communities. Therefore, referring to someone as 「他人」 is, in many cases, marking the absence of bonds of familiarity or friendship.

The reading 「あだびと」 (adabito), although rare, carries a poetic tone and is more often associated with literary or dramatic works, imparting a deeper nuance to the concept of "other" or "alien". In Noh and Kyogen plays, or traditional poetry like waka and haiku, you can find this form of reading to evoke a feeling of strangeness or something unknown and distant. This variation reminds speakers of the complex layers of meaning and interpretation that Japanese offers, enriching the cultural narrative of the language.