Translation and Meaning of: 皮膚 - hifu

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

Romaji: hifu

Kana: ひふ

Type: Noun

L: jlpt-n2

皮膚

Translation / Meaning: skin

Meaning in English: skin

Definition: Fabric that covers the body and is primarily responsible for protection and sensation.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (皮膚) hifu

Etymology and Origin

The Japanese word 「皮膚」 (hifu) is composed of two kanji characters: 「皮」 and 「膚」. The first kanji, 「皮」 (hi), means "skin" or "peel," and is also used in words like 「皮革」 (hikaku), which means "leather." This kanji is made up of the radicals for "covering" and "flesh," suggesting the idea of an outer surface that protects and covers. The second kanji, 「膚」 (fu), refers to "skin" in a more biological and deeper sense, often associated with the dermis or inner layer. Together, these characters form a term that encompasses both the external protection and the inner layers of the skin.

Definition and Meaning

In its most basic definition, 「皮膚」 (hifu) means "skin." It is the term used in medical and scientific contexts in Japan to refer to the skin of the human body and other animals. The skin is the largest organ of the body, serving as a protective barrier against the external environment. In Japan, skin health and care are highly valued, reflected in the variety of skincare products available in the market and the careful attention given to maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance of the skin.

The Use and Importance in Japanese Culture

In Japan, skin is associated with beauty and health, and the word 「皮膚」 (hifu) often appears in contexts related to beauty products and personal care. Phrases like 「皮膚科」 (hifuka), which means "dermatology," highlight the importance of skin care in medicine and aesthetics. Japan has a long tradition of skin care, incorporating both traditional methods and technological innovations to promote the health and beauty of the skin. Natural ingredients, such as green tea and rice, are common in skin care products due to their antioxidant properties.

Variations and Derived Expressions

In the Japanese language, there are several derived words and expressions that include the term 「皮膚」. For example:

"皮膚炎" (hifuen) - dermatitis, which is an inflammation of the skin.
"皮膚病" (hifubyō) - skin disease, referring to any condition that affects the skin.
"肌" (hada) - while all these terms refer to some aspect of the skin, it is important to note that "肌" (hada) is another common word used informally for "skin," especially in contexts of appearance and texture.

These words are often used in common conversations related to health and skincare, highlighting the importance of this organ for overall well-being.

Synonyms and similar words

皮 (hi) - skin (general)
肌 (hada) - skin (more specifically, the outer surface or the thinnest layer)
表皮 (hyouhi) - epidermis, outer layer of the skin
皮下 (hika) - subcutaneous tissue, under the skin
皮質 (hishitsu) - cortex, outer layer of the organ (related to skin in specific contexts)
皮膚組織 (hifushikigou) - cutaneous tissue, a group of cells that makes up the skin
皮膚層 (hifusun) - layers of the skin, relationship between the different layers (epidermis, dermis)
皮膚表面 (hifuhyoumen) - skin surface, referring to the outermost part
皮膚表層 (hifuhyousou) - superficial layer of the skin, almost synonymous with epidermis
皮膚外層 (hifugaishou) - outer layer of the skin, referring to the overall external covering of the skin
皮膚内層 (hifunaisou) - inner layers of the skin, referring to structures below the epidermis
皮膚病 (hifubyō) - skin diseases, conditions that affect the skin
皮膚科 (hifuka) - dermatology, a branch of medicine that deals with skin diseases
皮膚感染症 (hifukansenshou) - skin infections, diseases caused by pathogens in the skin