Translation and Meaning of: 奇妙 - kimyou

The Japanese word 奇妙[きみょう] is a fascinating term that sparks curiosity both for its meaning and its application in everyday life. If you are looking to better understand what it represents, how to use it correctly, or even its origin, this article will clarify those questions. Here, we will explore everything from the basic meaning to cultural nuances, helping students and enthusiasts of the Japanese language to master this vocabulary naturally.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 奇妙, we will also see how it appears in real contexts, its frequency in daily life, and even tips to memorize it without complications. Whether to enrich your vocabulary or simply satisfy linguistic curiosity, this guide will provide precise and useful information. And if you want to check out more details, Suki Nihongo, one of the best online Japanese dictionaries, can be a great supplementary resource.

Meaning and usage of 奇妙[きみょう]

奇妙[きみょう] is an adjective in the な form that describes something as "strange," "curious," or "mysterious." Unlike like 変[へん] (which can carry a negative connotation), 奇妙 has a more neutral tone, often suggesting an intriguing or fascinating strangeness. For example, a surreal landscape or an inexplicable phenomenon can be called 奇妙 without necessarily implying something bad.

In daily life, this word appears in conversations about unusual events, unconventional behaviors, or even in critiques of art and literature. It is common to find it in descriptions of movies, books, and even in news about misunderstood scientific discoveries. The flexibility of the term allows it to be used in both light situations and more serious contexts, as long as there is an element of peculiarity involved.

Origin and components of 奇妙

The kanji writing for 奇妙 is composed of two characters: 奇 (strange, rare) and 妙 (wonderful, subtle). Together, they form an idea that blends the unusual with the fascinating. It is worth noting that 妙 on its own can mean "skillful" or "refined," but in combination with 奇, the meaning leans more toward the extraordinary or inexplicable.

Although there are no exact records of when this combination emerged, its use dates back to classical Japanese, appearing in ancient texts and literature. Unlike some modern words, 奇妙 retains a slightly more formal character, being more common in writing than in casual conversations. Still, it is not uncommon to hear it in intellectual discussions or narratives that require a more elaborate vocabulary.

Tips for memorizing and using 奇妙

An effective way to 奇妙 is to associate it with visually striking situations. Imagine something like a melting clock (inspired by Dalí's work) or an animal with unusual characteristics. These bizarre, yet not necessarily frightening images help to embed the meaning of "strange yet interesting" that the word carries.

Another tip is to pay attention to the use of 奇妙 in anime, dramas, or Japanese news. It often appears in scenes involving mystery or supernatural phenomena. Hearing it in context makes it easier to absorb not only its meaning but also the intonation and the most common grammatical structures. Repeating sentences like "これは奇妙な話だ" (This is a strange story) can also aid in assimilation.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 奇怪 (Kikai) - strange, bizarre
• 不思議 (Fushigi) - Uncommon, wonderful, something that provokes iration
• 異様 (Iyou) - Strange, eccentric, out of the ordinary
• 奇異 (Kii) - Uncommon, peculiar, that causes strangeness
• 奇特 (Kitoku) - Exceptional, peculiar, remarkable
• 奇傑 (Kiketsu) - Extraordinary, brilliant, someone exceptional
• 奇妙な (Kimyou na) - Strange, curious, intriguing
• 奇怪な (Kikai na) - Strange, bizarre (emphasis on strange nature)
• 不思議な (Fushigi na) - Mysterious, something that causes fright
• 異様な (Iyou na) - Deformed, which stands out for its strangeness
• 奇異な (Kii na) - Strange, which causes strangeness (emphasis on being different)
• 奇特な (Kitoku na) - Peculiar, notable, with distinctive character
• 奇傑な (Kiketsu na) - Brilliant, exceptional, someone who stands out