Translation and Meaning of: 表 - omote

The Japanese word 表[おもて] is a fascinating term that carries deep meanings and various uses in daily life in Japan. If you are looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to apply it in sentences, this article will explore all of that in a clear and practical way. Additionally, we will dive into cultural aspects and tips for memorizing this word, always based on reliable sources.

Whether for Japanese language students or those curious about the language, understanding 表[おもて] goes beyond simple translation. It is linked to concepts such as "surface," "front," and even the idea of "appearance" in certain contexts. Here, you will discover how this word is used in Japan, its frequency in the language, and even examples that can aid in your learning.

Meaning and uses of 表 [おもて]

The term 表[おもて] can be translated as "front," "surface," or "external part," depending on the context. It is often used to refer to the visible or main side of something, such as the cover of a book (本の表) or the facade of a building. In contrast, its opposite, 裏[うら], means "back" or "reverse side."

In addition to the physical meaning, 表 also appears in expressions that involve appearance or public image. For example, 表向き[おもてむき] can mean "officially" or "for the public," highlighting the duality between what is shown and what is hidden. This nuance is important for understanding communication in Japan, where the distinction between public and private is valued.

Origin and writing of the kanji 表

The kanji 表 is composed of the radicals 衣 (clothes) and 毛 (hair), suggesting an idea of "cover" or "coating." According to the Kangorin dictionary, its original meaning is related to the outer part of something, such as the surface of a fabric. Over time, it has come to encom more abstract concepts, such as "to express" or "to manifest."

In writing, it is important to note that 表 can also be read as ひょう in compounds, such as 代表[だいひょう] (representative). This reading variation is common in kanji and reinforces the need to study the context to avoid mistakes. To memorize, a tip is to associate the radical 衣 with something that "covers" or "shows," like clothing that covers a surface.

The表[おもて] in Japanese culture

In Japan, the word 表 is closely tied to the concept of おもてなし (omotenashi), the famous Japanese hospitality that means "caring for others without ulterior motives." Here, 表 represents sincerity and the attention given to the outside, that is, to the guest. This usage reflects how the language connects concrete to cultural values.

Another interesting example is the use of 表 in public events. During the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the expression 表の顔[おもてのかお] (public face) was often used to describe the image that the country wanted to convey to the world. This shows how the word goes beyond the literal, entering the realm of collective identity.

Tips for learning and using 表[おもて]

To solidify the meaning of 表, one strategy is to create visual associations. Think of something with two distinct sides, like a coin: 表 would be the "heads" side, while 裏 would be the "tails" side. This mental image helps to differentiate the in real-life situations, such as when describing objects or places.

Another tip is to practice with everyday phrases, such as 表に出る [おもてにでる] (to go out into the street/to appear in public) or 表通り [おもてどおり] (main street). Hearing these expressions in dramas or animes also reinforces learning, as the brain associates the word with real contexts. Suki Nihongo, as one of the best online dictionaries, can be an ally in this search for authentic examples.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 表面 (Hyomen) - superfície
• 表示 (Hyouji) - exhibition
• 表彰 (Hyou shou) - recognition
• 表現 (Hyougen) - expression
• 表情 (Hyoujou) - Expressão facial
• 表紙 (Hyoushi) - Cover (of a book)
• 表示板 (Hyouji ban) - Display board
• 表示器 (Hyoujiki) - Display device
• 表示装置 (Hyouji souji) - Display equipment
• 表示画面 (Hyouji gamen) - Display screen
• 表示領域 (Hyouji ryouchi) - Display area
• 表示位置 (Hyouji ichi) - Display position
• 表示方法 (Hyouji houhou) - Display method
• 表示範囲 (Hyouji han'i) - Display interval
• 表示文字 (Hyouji moji) - Display text
• 表示色 (Hyouji shiki) - Display color
• 表示速度 (Hyouji supiido) - Display speed
• 表示精度 (Hyouji seido) - Display accuracy
• 表示機能 (Hyouji kinou) - Display function
• 表示モード (Hyouji mo-do) - Display mode
• 表示設定 (Hyouji settei) - Display settings
• 表示デバイス (Hyouji debaisu) - Display device
• 表示回路 (Hyouji ka circuit) - Display circuit
• 表示器具 (Hyouji kigu) - Display instrument
• 表示器面 (Hyoujiki men) - Display device surface
• 表示器部 (Hyoujiki bu) - Part of the display device
• 表示器系 (Hyoujiki kei) - Display device system
• 表示器用 (Hyoujiki you) - Used for display device
• 表示器制御 (Hyoujiki seigyo) - Display device control
• 表示器表示 (Hyoujiki hyouji) - Display device display
• 表示器表示部 (Hyoujiki hyouji bu) - Part of the display of the display device
• 表示器表示画面 (Hyoujiki hyouji gamen) - Display screen of the display device
• 表示器表示領域 (Hyoujiki hyouji ryouchi) - Display area of the display device