Translation and Meaning of: 胸 - mune

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

Romaji: mune

Kana: むね

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n3

胸

Translation / Meaning: breast; chest

Meaning in English: breast;chest

Definition: Part of the human body. The place where the heart and lungs are located.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (胸) mune

The Japanese word for "chest" is 「胸」, read as (mune) in romaji. The etymology of the kanji 「胸」 has radical components that help to understand its meaning. The radical on the left represents "meat" or "body part," while the part on the right relates to "small" or "confined." This combination harkens back to the idea of a body part that envelops and protects, directly referencing the anatomical function of the chest.

The term "mune" is not limited to just the physical part of the body; it can also be used in a more figurative manner. In Japanese culture, 「胸」 is often associated with feelings and emotions that originate from the chest, such as courage, love, and anxiety. These emotions are described as something deeply felt within the chest, reflecting the introspective and emotional nature of the Japanese. The expression 「胸の内」, for example, refers to a person's intimate thoughts or feelings.

Historically, the use of the word 「胸」 has had various applications in literary and cultural texts, symbolizing the center of a person's emotional or spiritual forces. Therefore, in Japanese arts, such as poetry and theater, the use of the word mune is meticulously crafted to express the emotional depth of characters or situations. Thus, in addition to its anatomical function, the term carries a significant emotional weight, representing an intersection between the physical and the metaphysical.

In linguistic variations, we find expressions like 「胸を張る」 (mune wo haru), which means "to be proud" or "to lift one's chest," demonstrating confidence and self-esteem. Another common expression is 「胸騒ぎ」 (munesawagi), which describes a feeling of premonition or unease. Both expressions show how the concept of 「胸」 permeates both the physical and psychological domains, rooting itself in Japanese culture and thought in a broad and complex way.