Translation and Meaning of: 妻 - tsuma

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 妻[つま]. It is common in everyday vocabulary and carries important meanings in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, usage in sentences, and how it is perceived socially in Japan. Additionally, we will look at tips for memorizing this word and interesting facts based on reliable sources.

妻[つま] is a term that frequently appears in conversations, texts, and even in Japanese media. Its main meaning is "wife," but there are interesting nuances in its usage. Here, you will discover how this word fits into the linguistic and cultural context of Japan, as well as learn practical ways to apply it in your daily life.

Meaning and usage of 妻 [つま]

In Japanese, 妻[つま] means "wife" and is used to refer to the married woman in a marital relationship. Unlike other words like 奥さん[おくさん] (which is more formal and polite), 妻 has a more neutral and straightforward tone. It is common to hear it in everyday conversations, documents, or when someone talks about their own wife.

It is worth noting that 妻 is not used for girlfriends or fiancées – its use is strictly related to marriage. In more formal contexts, Japanese people may prefer like 家内[かない] or 夫人[ふじん], but 妻 remains the most natural choice in everyday life. If you are studying Japanese, this is an essential word to add to your vocabulary.

Origin and writing of the kanji 妻

The kanji 妻 is composed of two radicals: 女[おんな] (woman) and 又[また] (hand). This combination suggests an ancient idea of "woman who holds" or "woman who cares," reflecting traditional roles associated with marriage in historical Japan. Despite social changes, the character has maintained its original form for centuries.

The pronunciation つま (tsuma) has roots in archaic Japanese and was already used during the Nara period (710-794). Interestingly, in some regional dialects, such as the one from Okinawa, the word may sound a bit different, but the meaning remains the same. If you want to memorize this kanji, a tip is to associate the radical 女 with the concept of "married woman."

Cultural and Social Context

In Japan, 妻 is not just a word, but a term that reflects aspects of society. In the past, it carried a connotation more linked to domestic duties, but today its use is more neutral. In animes and dramas, for example, it is common to see characters using 妻 to refer to their partners, whether in romantic or everyday contexts.

It is worth noting that, with the changes in gender roles, the term has also evolved. Although it is still predominantly associated with women, there are discussions about inclusive language in the country. Nevertheless, 妻 continues to be widely used and recognized, demonstrating how the Japanese language blends tradition and modernity.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 嫁 (yome) - Wife; the woman of someone, specifically referring to a young wife.
• 女房 (nyōbō) - Wife; often used in a more informal or affectionate manner.
• 家内 (kanai) - Wife; refers to someone's spouse, usually in formal contexts.
• お婆さん (obāsan) - Grandmother; a polite term to refer to an elderly woman, often a grandmother.
• お袋 (ofukuro) - Mother; a familiar way to refer to one's mother, but sometimes used for a wife, depending on the context.
• かみさん (kamisan) - Wife; used informally, generally in reference to one's own wife.
• うちの女房 (uchi no nyōbō) - My wife; colloquial expression for referring to one's wife.
• うちの嫁 (uchi no yome) - My wife; used in the context of a family relationship.
• うちのかみさん (uchi no kamisan) - My wife; colloquial, emphasizing a personal aspect.
• うちの家内 (uchi no kanai) - My wife; more formal in some contexts.
• おかみさん (okamisan) - Wife; often used to refer to the wife of an owner or a woman who runs a business.
• お内儀 (on'aigi) - Wife; used in traditional and respectful contexts.
• お嫁さん (oyomesan) - Wife; a term used to refer to a bride or married woman in a cordial manner.
• お嬢さん (ojōsan) - Young woman; used to refer to girls or young ladies, the term can also suggest a young woman from a high social class.
• お婆ちゃん (obāchan) - Grandma; an informal and affectionate way to refer to a grandmother.
• おばあさん (obāsan) - Grandma; equivalent to "obāsan", can also refer to an elderly woman.