When you're learning Japanese, you'll find that family words are super important, but sometimes they can be a little tricky because they can mean different things depending on the context.
おばさん (obasan) is one of those words! At its most basic, it means 'aunt,' which is helpful to know for talking about your family.
However, it can also be used more generally to refer to a 'middle-aged woman.' It's a common way to address or refer to women who are roughly in their 40s to 60s, even if they aren't your actual aunt.
Just be aware that while it's a common term, sometimes using it for a woman you don't know well can be perceived as a bit impolite, similar to how calling someone 'ma'am' might be taken in English. It's often used within families or by younger people referring to older women in a general sense.
When using 「おばさん」, it's important to understand the nuance. While it literally translates to "aunt," it's also commonly used to refer to any middle-aged woman, sometimes with a slightly informal or even derogatory connotation depending on the context and tone. It's generally safer to avoid using it directly towards someone you don't know well or in formal situations. Instead, you might use more polite titles like 「～さん」 with their family name, or 「奥さん」 if you know they are married.
For example, you might hear a child call their mother's sister 「おばさん」. However, if you're talking about a woman you don't know on the street, calling her 「おばさん」 might be perceived as impolite. Always consider the relationship and context when using this word.
When used to refer to a family member, おばさん (obasan) means 'aunt'. However, it can also be used to refer to any middle-aged woman, whether you know her or not. This can sometimes be a sensitive term, as some women may not appreciate being called おばさん because it implies they are past their youth.
A more polite and universally accepted term for an older woman you don't know would be 奥さん (okusan) if referring to someone's wife, or simply using their last name with a polite suffix like ～さん (san).
§ Understanding おばさん (obasan)
Let's break down the word おばさん (obasan). You'll hear this quite a bit in Japan, and it's important to know what it means and, perhaps more crucially, when and how to use it. At its core, おばさん refers to an aunt or a middle-aged woman. Simple enough, right? But like many Japanese words, there's more to it than just a direct translation.
- Japanese Word
- おばさん (obasan)
- Definition
- Aunt; middle-aged woman.
The term 'aunt' is straightforward. If you're talking about your mother's or father's sister, or the wife of your uncle, おばさん is the correct term. It's a family term, used with respect and familiarity. However, the 'middle-aged woman' aspect is where things get a bit more nuanced. In Japanese culture, it's common to refer to women of a certain age as おばさん, even if they aren't your relative. This can be used in a neutral way, simply as a descriptor, or it can carry a slightly less flattering connotation, depending on context and tone. It's not necessarily an insult, but it's not always a compliment either.
§ When to use おばさん (obasan)
You'll encounter おばさん in various situations. Here are the main ones:
- Referring to a Family Member: This is the most direct and universally accepted use. If she's your aunt, you use おばさん.
私のおばさんはとても親切です。(Watashi no obasan wa totemo shinsetsu desu.)
Hint: My aunt is very kind.
- Addressing an Older Woman (General): When you need to get the attention of or refer to an unfamiliar middle-aged woman, especially in a public setting (e.g., in a shop, on the street). This is where the nuance comes in. While often neutral, some women might not appreciate being called おばさん if they perceive it as implying they are old.
すみません、おばさん、これはいくらですか？ (Sumimasen, obasan, kore wa ikura desu ka?)
Hint: Excuse me, ma'am, how much is this?
- Describing a Woman: You might hear people use it to describe a woman who fits the 'middle-aged' description. Again, this can be neutral or have a slight undertone.
あのおばさんはいつも元気ですね。(Ano obasan wa itsumo genki desu ne.)
Hint: That middle-aged woman is always energetic, isn't she?
§ What to avoid
While おばさん is a common word, there are situations where you should definitely avoid using it:
- For Young Women: Never use おばさん for young women. It would be considered very rude and potentially offensive. For younger women, you'd use おねえさん (onee-san - older sister, or young lady).
- As a Direct Insult: While it can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation, using it with the explicit intention to insult someone based on their age is, of course, highly impolite.
- In Formal Settings for Unfamiliar Women: In very formal or business settings, it's generally safer to avoid using おばさん for non-family members. Stick to more formal titles or ways of addressing people.
Mastering the use of おばさん isn't just about knowing its definition; it's about understanding the social context in which it's used. Pay attention to how native speakers use it, and you'll quickly pick up on the subtleties.
§ Understanding おばさん (obasan)
The Japanese word おばさん (obasan) is a common noun you'll hear and use frequently. It generally means 'aunt' or 'middle-aged woman'. However, its usage can be a bit nuanced, so let's break it down.
- DEFINITION
- Aunt; middle-aged woman.
When referring to a specific family member, like your actual aunt, you would use おばさん. For example:
私のおばさんはとても親切です。
This translates to: "My aunt is very kind." Here, 私 (watashi) means 'I/my', and 親切 (shinsetsu) means 'kind'.
週末におばさんの家に行きます。
This means: "I will go to my aunt's house on the weekend." In this sentence, 週末 (shūmatsu) is 'weekend', 家 (ie) is 'house', and 行きます (ikimasu) is 'will go'. The particle に (ni) indicates the destination.
§ おばさん as 'middle-aged woman'
Beyond family relations, おばさん is also used to refer to a middle-aged woman in a general sense. This can be used neutrally, or sometimes with a slightly less flattering connotation, similar to how 'old lady' might be used in English, though it's generally milder. Context is key here.
あのおばさんは誰ですか？
Meaning: "Who is that middle-aged woman?" Here, あの (ano) means 'that', and 誰 (dare) means 'who'.
店員さんに間違えられたおばさん。
This translates to: "The middle-aged woman who was mistaken for a store clerk." 店員 (ten'in) means 'store clerk', and 間違えられた (machigaerareta) means 'was mistaken'.
§ Grammar and particles with おばさん
You'll often see おばさん used with various Japanese particles. Here are some common ones:
おばさん + が (ga): This marks おばさん as the subject of the sentence.
おばさんがケーキをくれました。
Meaning: "My aunt gave me a cake." ケーキ (kēki) is 'cake', and くれました (kuremashita) is 'gave me'.
おばさん + は (wa): This particle marks おばさん as the topic of the sentence.
おばさんは料理が得意です。
Meaning: "My aunt is good at cooking." 料理 (ryōri) is 'cooking', and 得意 (tokui) means 'good at/skilled'.
おばさん + と (to): This means 'with' or 'and' when connecting nouns.
おばさんと買い物に行きました。
Meaning: "I went shopping with my aunt." 買い物 (kaimono) is 'shopping'.
おばさん + の (no): This shows possession or describes a noun (like an adjective).
おばさんの猫はかわいいです。
Meaning: "My aunt's cat is cute." 猫 (neko) is 'cat', and かわいい (kawaii) is 'cute'.
§ Important Usage Notes
In direct address, calling someone who is not your aunt おばさん can be taken as implying they are old or past their prime, which can be offensive. It's best reserved for your own aunt or when discussing a middle-aged woman in a third-person, non-confrontational way where the context makes it clear you're not trying to offend.
§ Don't misuse おばさん
The word おばさん (obasan) means "aunt" or "middle-aged woman." It's an A2 CEFR level word, so it's quite common. However, many learners make mistakes with its usage, leading to awkward or even offensive situations. Let's look at how to avoid those.
§ Mistake 1: Using it for any older woman
Many beginners think おばさん is a polite, general term for any woman older than them. This is often wrong. While it literally means "aunt," it's also commonly used to refer to a "middle-aged woman" in a way that can be perceived as slightly informal or even condescending, especially if you don't know the person. It's not like the English "ma'am" or "miss."
§ Mistake 2: Calling your own mother's sister おばさん without context
While おばさん does mean "aunt," when referring to your own aunt (your mother's or father's sister), you'll often use a more specific or personal term, especially within your family. Simply saying おばさん without any other context can sound a bit detached. In conversation with others, you might say 私のおばさん (watashi no obasan - my aunt).
昨日、おばさんが家に遊びに来ました。(Kinō, obasan ga ie ni asobi ni kimashita.) - Yesterday, my aunt came to visit my house.
Here, the context of "my house" implies it's your personal aunt. However, if you're talking to someone else about your aunt, you might specify: 私のお母さんの妹のおばさん (watashi no okaasan no imōto no obasan - my mother's younger sister, my aunt).
§ Mistake 3: Using it for young women
Never use おばさん for a young woman. This is a common and serious mistake. It's considered very rude, as it implies she is middle-aged or older than she is. It's like calling a young woman "old lady." Always avoid this. If you need to address a young woman, use お姉さん (oneesan - older sister/young woman) or an appropriate title if you know it.
§ Mistake 4: Not understanding the subtle negative connotation
While おばさん can be a neutral term for "aunt," when used to describe an unknown middle-aged woman, it can sometimes carry a subtle negative connotation, implying characteristics like being loud, nosy, or unfashionable. This isn't always the case, but it's something to be aware of. It's similar to how "old lady" in English can sometimes be used in a derogatory way.
- DEFINITION
- おばさん (obasan): Aunt; middle-aged woman.
In summary, use おばさん carefully. It's best used for your actual aunt or within a family context. For other middle-aged women, consider if a more polite or neutral term is appropriate, or if direct address is even necessary. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and avoid using it casually for strangers.
How Formal Is It?
"先日、叔母様のお宅にお邪魔しました。 (Senjitsu, obasama no otaku ni ojama shimashita.) - The other day, I visited my aunt's house."
"おばさんがお店を経営しています。 (Obasan ga omise o keiei shiteimasu.) - My aunt runs a shop. / That middle-aged woman runs a shop."
"ねえ、おばちゃん、これいくら？ (Nee, obachan, kore ikura?) - Hey, auntie, how much is this? (Often used by children or when speaking to a familiar older woman in a relaxed setting.)"
"おばちゃんがケーキを焼いてくれたよ！ (Obachan ga keeki o yaite kureta yo!) - Auntie baked a cake for me!"
"あのババア、うるさいな。 (Ano babaa, urusai na.) - That old hag is noisy. (This is a very rude and derogatory term, avoid using it.)"
रोचक तथ्य
The word 'obasan' can sometimes be used in a slightly derogatory way to refer to a middle-aged woman who is perceived as nosy, loud, or unfashionable. However, it is also commonly used neutrally or affectionately, much like 'auntie' in English.
उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका
- stress on the wrong syllable
- pronouncing the 'u' like in 'bus'
ज़रूरी व्याकरण
Japanese nouns do not change form for pluralization. The context or use of counters indicates plurality.
おばさん (obasan) can mean one aunt or multiple aunts, depending on the context. For example, 「私のおばさんが来ました。」 (Watashi no obasan ga kimashita.) - My aunt came. Or 「おばさんが三人います。」 (Obasan ga sannin imasu.) - There are three aunts.
The particle 「は」 (wa) marks the topic of a sentence. It indicates what the sentence is about.
「おばさんは元気です。」 (Obasan wa genki desu.) - My aunt is well. Here, 「おばさん」 is the topic of the sentence.
The particle 「が」 (ga) marks the subject of a sentence, especially when introducing new information or when it's the specific agent of an action.
「誰がおばさんですか？」 (Dare ga obasan desu ka?) - Who is the aunt? 「田中さんがおばさんです。」 (Tanaka-san ga obasan desu.) - Ms. Tanaka is the aunt.
When addressing someone, adding 「さん」 (san) after their name or title is a common honorific, showing respect. While 「おばさん」 itself is a title, sometimes 「おばさんさん」 is used to add extra politeness, though less common.
「おばさん、こんにちは。」 (Obasan, konnichiwa.) - Hello, aunt. Or, if referring to a specific middle-aged woman named 'Tanaka', you might say 「田中さん」 (Tanaka-san), but if she is your aunt, you would generally use 「おばさん」.
Japanese uses various politeness levels. 「おばさん」 is a neutral term. For a younger, more affectionate term for an aunt, one might use 「おばちゃん」 (obachan) informally.
「私のおばちゃんは優しいです。」 (Watashi no obachan wa yasashii desu.) - My aunt (affectionate) is kind. This shows a closer, more informal relationship than simply using 「おばさん」.
स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण
昨日、駅前でおばさんに道を聞かれました。
Yesterday, an aunt/middle-aged woman asked me for directions in front of the station.
私のおばさんは料理がとても上手です。
My aunt is very good at cooking.
近所のおばさんがいつも声をかけてくれます。
The middle-aged woman in the neighborhood always talks to me.
あの店のおばちゃん、いつも笑顔で素敵だよね。
That middle-aged lady at the shop is always smiling and lovely, isn't she?
おばちゃん is a more familiar or colloquial version of おばさん.
おばさんにケーキを焼いてもらいました。
My aunt baked a cake for me.
公園でおばさんたちがゲートボールをしていました。
Middle-aged women were playing gateball in the park.
彼はいつもおばさんキラーと呼ばれています。
He is always called an 'aunt killer' (someone popular with middle-aged women).
おばさんキラー is a slang term.
「おばさん」と呼ばれるのはまだ早い気がします。
I feel it's still too early to be called 'obasan' (middle-aged woman).
Implies the speaker feels they are not yet middle-aged.
おばさんはいつも美味しい手料理を作ってくれます。
My aunt always cooks delicious homemade meals for me.
近所のおばさんが親切にも道案内をしてくれました。
A neighborhood middle-aged woman kindly showed me the way.
あのおばさんは昔、有名な歌手だったそうです。
I heard that middle-aged woman used to be a famous singer.
おばさんに久しぶりに会ったら、少し白髪が増えていた。
When I saw my aunt after a long time, she had a bit more gray hair.
デパートでおばさん向けの服をたくさん見かけました。
I saw many clothes for middle-aged women at the department store.
彼は困っているおばさんを助けるため、荷物を持ってあげた。
He helped the struggling middle-aged woman by carrying her luggage.
おばさんの家で夏休みを過ごすのが楽しみです。
I'm looking forward to spending summer vacation at my aunt's house.
この辺りでは、年齢を問わず女性を親しみを込めて「おばさん」と呼ぶことがあります。
Around here, women are sometimes affectionately called 'obasan' regardless of their age.
昨日、駅前でおばさんに道を聞かれました。親切に教えてあげたら、とても感謝されました。
Yesterday, a middle-aged woman asked me for directions in front of the station. When I kindly told her, she was very grateful.
彼女は私の叔母、つまり父の妹です。いつも私を気にかけてくれる優しいおばさんです。
She is my aunt, my father's younger sister. She's always a kind aunt who cares about me.
近所のおばさんが手作りのクッキーをくれました。いつも美味しいものを作ってくれます。
The neighborhood lady gave me homemade cookies. She always makes delicious things.
デパートで迷っていたら、店員のおばさんが声をかけてくれて、売り場まで案内してくれました。
When I was lost in the department store, a female store clerk spoke to me and guided me to the sales floor.
昔、よく公園でおばさんたちが井戸端会議をしていました。今はあまり見かけませんが。
In the past, middle-aged women often held neighborhood chats in the park. I don't see it much now.
あの人は、いつも元気でパワフルなおばさんですね。年齢を感じさせません。
That person is always a lively and powerful middle-aged woman, isn't she? She doesn't show her age.
子供の頃、夏休みにおばさんの家に遊びに行くのが楽しみでした。たくさん美味しい料理を作ってくれましたから。
When I was a child, I looked forward to visiting my aunt's house during summer vacation. She made a lot of delicious food for me.
最近、街中で若者言葉を使うおばさんをよく見かけます。時代は変わるものですね。
Lately, I often see middle-aged women using youth slang in town. Times change, don't they?
सामान्य शब्द संयोजन
सामान्य वाक्यांश
おばさんに道を尋ねる。
Ask a woman for directions.
おばさんが公園で散歩している。
A woman is walking in the park.
私のおばさんは料理が上手です。
My aunt is good at cooking.
あのおばさんはいつも元気だ。
That woman is always energetic.
おばさんの家に行く。
Go to my aunt's house.
この服、おばさんっぽいかな？
Does this outfit look frumpy/aunt-like?
お店のおばさんが親切だった。
The woman at the shop was kind.
おばさんの話は面白い。
My aunt's stories are interesting.
おばさんに会うのが楽しみだ。
I'm looking forward to seeing my aunt.
最近、おばさんになった気分だ。
Lately, I feel like I've become a middle-aged woman.
अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है
These kanji specifically mean 'aunt' (older sister of parent / younger sister of parent, respectively). While the pronunciation is the same, using kanji can clarify the familial relationship, whereas ひらがな (おばさん) is more ambiguous and can be taken more generally.
This is a more neutral and descriptive term for 'middle-aged woman,' without the potential nuances of familiarity or slight impoliteness that おばさん can carry when used for strangers.
This term specifically means 'grandmother' or 'elderly woman,' which is distinct from おばさん. While both refer to older women, おばあさん implies a significantly older age.
आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले
The term おばさん can be used to refer to one's aunt, but it is also commonly used to refer to any middle-aged woman, often in a way that can be perceived as impolite or familiar if used without careful consideration of the context and relationship to the person.
When referring to a specific aunt, it's generally safe. However, using it for an unfamiliar middle-aged woman can be taken as implying she's older than she might like, or as being overly familiar. It's similar to calling any older woman 'auntie' in English; it can be endearing in some contexts but rude in others.
彼女は私のおばさんです。(She is my aunt.) / あのスーパーのおばさんが親切でした。(That middle-aged woman at the supermarket was kind.)
Similar to おばさん, おじさん can refer to one's uncle or any middle-aged man. The same social nuances apply regarding politeness and familiarity.
Using it for a specific uncle is fine. Using it for an unfamiliar middle-aged man can be seen as impolite or too familiar, suggesting he is older than he might perceive himself to be.
彼はおじさんになりました。(He became an uncle.) / あのおじさんはどこに住んでいますか。(Where does that middle-aged man live?)
While often meaning 'older brother,' it's also used to refer to any young man or even a younger-looking middle-aged man. The confusion arises from when it's appropriate to use it for non-relatives.
When referring to your own older brother, it's clear. When addressing a male stranger who appears to be older than you but still relatively young, it's a polite way to address them. However, it can sometimes be used in shops or restaurants to refer to male staff, which can be informal.
私のお兄さんは大学生です。(My older brother is a university student.) / すみません、お兄さん、これ何ですか。(Excuse me, sir (young man), what is this?)
Similar to おにいさん, おねえさん can mean 'older sister' or refer to any young woman or younger-looking middle-aged woman. The usage with non-relatives can be tricky.
Using it for your own older sister is straightforward. When addressing a female stranger who appears older than you but still relatively young, it's a polite form of address. Like おにいさん, it's also used informally for female staff.
お姉さんは料理が上手です。(My older sister is good at cooking.) / お姉さん、この服はいくらですか。(Miss (young woman), how much is this dress?)
While commonly translated as 'teacher,' せんせい is used much more broadly in Japanese. It can refer to doctors, lawyers, politicians, artists, and anyone with expertise or a position of respect.
The confusion comes from expecting it to only mean 'teacher' in the academic sense. In Japanese, it's an honorific used to show respect for someone's professional knowledge or status, even if they aren't directly 'teaching' you in a classroom.
田中先生は医者です。(Dr. Tanaka is a doctor.) / 私は先生に日本語を習っています。(I am learning Japanese from my teacher.)
शब्द परिवार
संज्ञा
इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें
When talking about your own aunt or someone else's aunt, it's polite to add a suffix like 「さん」 to make 「おばさん」 into 「おばさんさん」. However, it's very common to just use 「おばさん」 as a general term for a middle-aged woman, even if she's not your aunt. It can sometimes be used in a slightly familiar or even somewhat impolite way if you're not careful, similar to how 'ma'am' or 'auntie' might be used in English in certain contexts. For example, if you're asking for directions from a woman you don't know who appears to be middle-aged, you might say 「すみません、おばさん」. It's best to use it when referring to an actual aunt or when it's clear from the context that no disrespect is intended.
A common mistake is using 「おばさん」 for any older woman. While it refers to a middle-aged woman, it doesn't generally apply to elderly women; for them, 「おばあさん」 (grandma/elderly woman) is more appropriate. Another mistake is using it too casually with strangers, especially those you want to show respect to, as it can sound a bit direct or familiar. When in doubt, or if you want to be more formal, use a more general term like 「女性」 (josei - woman) or address them by their role if known (e.g., 「先生」 sensei - teacher).
सुझाव
Basic Meaning of Obasan
Understand that 「おばさん」 (obasan) primarily means aunt. It's often used for your mother's or father's sister.
Obasan for Non-Relatives
You can also use 「おばさん」 to refer to an older, middle-aged woman who is not your relative. It's similar to saying 'madam' or 'auntie' in English, but be aware of the nuances.
Politeness and Age
Be mindful that using 「おばさん」 for someone who is sensitive about their age can sometimes be perceived as impolite, especially if they are not your actual aunt and might not consider themselves 'middle-aged'.
Using Suffixes for Clarity
When referring to a specific aunt, you might add their name + さん (san) or use a more specific term if available, though 「おばさん」 is generally understood.
Avoid Offence
Avoid using 「おばさん」 for women who are clearly younger than middle-aged, as it can be offensive. If unsure, it's safer to use a more general polite term like 「おねえさん」 (oneesan) for older sisters or women, or just 「すみません」 (sumimasen) to get someone's attention.
Regional Variations
While 「おばさん」 is standard, some regional dialects might have slightly different terms or usage patterns, though this is less common for such a fundamental term.
Associated Terms
Pair 「おばさん」 with related terms. For example, 「おじさん」 (ojisan) means uncle or middle-aged man, and 「おばあさん」 (obaasan) means grandmother or elderly woman.
Practice with Examples
Practice using 「おばさん」 in simple sentences to get a feel for its use. For example: 「私のおばさんは優しいです。」 (Watashi no obasan wa yasashii desu.) - My aunt is kind. Or: 「あのおばさんは誰ですか？」 (Ano obasan wa dare desu ka?) - Who is that middle-aged woman?
Generalizing Age
In some informal settings, 「おばさん」 can be used to generally refer to any woman who is perceived to be older than a young adult, without implying exact age. This is more common among younger people.
शब्द की उत्पत्ति
Native Japanese.
मूल अर्थ: Originally referred to an older woman relative, particularly an aunt.
Japonicसांस्कृतिक संदर्भ
<p>In Japanese culture, addressing someone as おばさん (obasan) to a stranger can be tricky. While it literally means 'aunt,' it's often used for any middle-aged woman and can sometimes imply she is past her prime, which might be taken negatively. It's generally safer to use more polite terms like おねえさん (oneesan) for younger-looking women or more formal titles if you're unsure of their age or relationship to you. </p><p>However, within a family or with close acquaintances, using おばさん for an aunt or a familiar older woman is perfectly natural and can express warmth and familiarity.</p>
खुद को परखो 66 सवाल
Which of these would you call おばさん (obasan)?
おばさん (obasan) refers to an aunt or a middle-aged woman.
You see your friend's mother, who is middle-aged. What is a polite way to refer to her in Japanese?
おばさん (obasan) is used for aunts or middle-aged women. While calling someone directly by 'obasan' might be slightly informal depending on context, it's the correct term among the choices for a middle-aged woman.
Which word is the most appropriate to describe your mother's sister?
おばさん (obasan) is the Japanese word for 'aunt'.
You can use おばさん (obasan) to refer to a very young girl.
おばさん (obasan) refers to an aunt or a middle-aged woman, not a young girl.
The word おばさん (obasan) can mean 'aunt'.
おばさん (obasan) has two main meanings: 'aunt' and 'middle-aged woman'.
If you are talking about your father's brother, you would use おばさん (obasan).
おばさん (obasan) is for an aunt or a middle-aged woman. For your father's brother, you would use おじさん (ojisan).
This sentence means 'My aunt is kind.' In Japanese, the possessive particle 'の' connects '私' (I/my) and 'おばさん' (aunt). The topic particle 'は' follows 'おばさん'. '親切' means kind, and 'です' is a polite copula.
This sentence means 'The person over there is a middle-aged woman.' 'あそこ' means 'over there,' 'に' is a location particle, 'いる' means 'to be' (for living things), and '人' means 'person.' 'は' marks the topic, and 'です' is a polite copula.
This sentence means 'My aunt lives in Tokyo.' '私 の おばさん' means 'my aunt.' 'は' is the topic particle. '東京' is Tokyo, and 'に' indicates location. '住んで います' means 'is living' or 'lives.'
The aunt is watering flowers in the garden.
Yesterday, I went to a department store with my aunt.
That person is not my aunt. She's just an acquaintance.
Read this aloud:
おばさんは料理がとても上手です。
Focus: おばさん (Obasan)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
週末におばさんの家を訪ねます。
Focus: 訪ねます (tazunemasu)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
公園で子どもたちと遊んでいるおばさんを見かけました。
Focus: 見かけました (mikakemashita)
तुमने कहा:
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Write a short sentence describing an 'obasan' you might see in a park. Use descriptive adjectives.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
公園で犬と散歩しているおばさんがいます。彼女はいつも笑顔です。
Imagine you are introducing your aunt (obasan) to a friend. Write a sentence introducing her, mentioning one of her hobbies.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
こちらは私のおばさんです。彼女は料理が趣味です。
Write a sentence using 'obasan' to describe a situation where you might ask for directions from a middle-aged woman.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
駅への道を、あのおばさんに尋ねてみましょう。
このおばさんはどこにいましたか？
Read this passage:
先日、商店街で素敵なおばさんを見かけました。彼女は花屋さんの前で立ち止まり、とても楽しそうに花を選んでいました。私もあんな風に歳をとりたいと思いました。
このおばさんはどこにいましたか？
文章に「商店街で見かけました」とあります。
文章に「商店街で見かけました」とあります。
このおばさんは何をするのが好きですか？
Read this passage:
私の隣の家に住んでいるおばさんは、毎日庭で野菜を育てています。夏にはいつも新鮮なトマトやキュウリをくれます。とても親切な人です。
このおばさんは何をするのが好きですか？
文章に「毎日庭で野菜を育てています」とあります。
文章に「毎日庭で野菜を育てています」とあります。
筆者はどこで「おばさん」たちを見ましたか？
Read this passage:
カフェでお茶を飲んでいると、隣の席のおばさんたちが楽しそうにおしゃべりしていました。彼女たちの話を聞いていると、日本の文化について学ぶことができました。
筆者はどこで「おばさん」たちを見ましたか？
文章の冒頭に「カフェでお茶を飲んでいると」とあります。
文章の冒頭に「カフェでお茶を飲んでいると」とあります。
This sentence means 'My aunt is kind.' The particles 'の' (no) and 'は' (wa) connect '私' (I/my) to 'おばさん' (aunt) and 'おばさん' to '優しい' (kind), respectively. 'です' (desu) is a polite copula.
This sentence asks 'Who is the woman in front of the station?' '駅 の 前' (eki no mae) means 'in front of the station.' 'いる' (iru) is used for animate objects. '誰 です か' (dare desu ka) is a polite way to ask 'who is it?'
This sentence means 'That middle-aged woman is always energetic.' 'あの' (ano) means 'that' (far from both speaker and listener). 'いつも' (itsumo) means 'always.' '元気' (genki) means 'energetic' or 'healthy.'
Choose the most appropriate meaning for「おばさん」in the sentence: 「隣のおばさんはいつも親切に話しかけてくれる。」
While 「おばさん」can mean 'aunt', in this context, 'neighbor's aunt' isn't the most natural or likely interpretation without further context. It's often used more broadly to refer to a middle-aged woman, especially one who is not directly related to you but is in a 'neighborly' position.
Which of the following situations would most likely use「おばさん」to refer to a relative?
「おばさん」is directly used for 'aunt', which would be a relative like your mother's sister. The other options refer to middle-aged women in a general sense, not specifically as a relative.
What nuance does using「おばさん」to refer to a woman you don't know well often carry?
When used for a woman who is not your relative, 「おばさん」can sometimes carry a slightly informal or even impolite connotation, especially if she's not actually 'middle-aged' or if you don't know her well. It's safer to use more formal titles or avoid it if unsure.
It is always polite to call any woman older than you「おばさん」in Japanese.
False. While 「おばさん」can refer to an older woman, using it for someone you don't know or who isn't a direct relative can be seen as informal or even rude, especially if they are not significantly older or prefer other titles. It's generally safer to use more polite terms or address them by their name if known.
「おばさん」can be used to refer to your father's older sister.
True. 「おばさん」is the term for 'aunt', encompassing both your mother's and father's sisters, regardless of whether they are older or younger than your parents.
When addressing a shopkeeper who appears to be in her 40s or 50s, using「おばさん」is a universally accepted respectful term.
False. While you might hear it, using 「おばさん」for a shopkeeper can be seen as impolite or overly familiar. It's generally more respectful to use 「おばさま」 (if you want to convey respect for an older woman without direct relation) or 「奥さん」 (if she appears to be married) or simply address her with their title if known, like 「店長さん」 (store manager).
彼女は私の___ですが、とても若々しいです。
文脈から、'彼女'は家族の一員で、若々しいと言われているため、「おばさん」(aunt)が適切です。
近所の___はいつも庭の手入れをしています。
「近所の〜が庭の手入れをしている」という状況から、'middle-aged woman' の意味で「おばさん」が適切です。
道に迷っていたら、親切な___が助けてくれました。
「道に迷っていたら親切な〜が助けてくれた」という状況から、'middle-aged woman' の意味で「おばさん」が適切です。
私は田中さんの___に会ったことがありません。
「田中さんの〜に会ったことがない」という文脈で、家族の一員である「おばさん」(aunt)が自然です。
あのパン屋の___が焼くパンは本当に美味しいです。
「パン屋の〜が焼くパン」という文脈から、パン職人としての 'middle-aged woman' の意味で「おばさん」が使われることがあります。
パーティーで私の___は面白い話をして、みんなを笑わせました。
「パーティーで私の〜が面白い話をした」という文脈で、家族の一員である「おばさん」(aunt)が適切です。
Listen for 'obasan' and understand who went shopping with whom.
Focus on 'kinjo no obasan' and what she does regularly.
Pay attention to 'sono obasan' and her characteristics/actions.
Read this aloud:
おばさんは私に美味しいクッキーを焼いてくれた。
Focus: Emphasis on 'oba-san' and the natural flow of 'oishii kuukii'.
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
駅前でおばさんが道に迷っていたので、助けてあげた。
Focus: Focus on the intonation of 'eki-mae' and the pronunciation of 'mayotte ita'.
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
彼はおばさんの家で夏休みを過ごす予定だ。
Focus: Practice the rhythm of 'oba-san no ie' and the pronunciation of 'natsu-yasumi'.
तुमने कहा:
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This sentence means, 'The neighborhood lady always gives me snacks.' The particle 'の' connects '近所' (neighborhood) and 'おばさん' (lady). 'は' marks the topic. 'に' marks the indirect object '私' (me). 'を' marks the direct object 'お菓子' (snacks). 'くれる' is the verb 'to give'.
This sentence translates to 'She is my aunt and a teacher.' '彼女' (she) is the topic. '私のおばさん' means 'my aunt'. 'で' connects 'おばさん' and '教師' (teacher), indicating a dual role or characteristic. 'です' is the polite form of 'to be'.
This sentence means 'That middle-aged woman is very kind and often takes good care of me.' 'そのおばさん' (that lady) is the topic. 'とても親切' (very kind). 'で' connects the adjective '親切' to the following clause. 'よく世話を焼いてくれる' means 'often takes good care of me'.
Context: A woman's resistance to being called 'obasan' might stem from her awareness of her age.
Context: Recently, young people tend to casually address unknown middle-aged women as 'obasan'.
Context: He nostalgically munched on handmade cookies sent by his aunt.
Read this aloud:
「おばさん」という言葉のニュアンスは、相手との関係性や状況によって大きく変わる。
Focus: ニュアンス (nyuansu)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
都市部では、おばさんと呼ばれることを嫌がる女性が増えていると聞く。
Focus: 嫌がる (iyagaru)
तुमने कहा:
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Read this aloud:
昔は「おばさん」は親しみを込めた呼び方でもあったが、今は少し複雑だ。
Focus: 親しみを込めた (shitashimi o kometa)
तुमने कहा:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence means 'The aunt in the neighborhood always gives us sweets.' The particles and word order combine to form a natural Japanese sentence.
This sentence means 'That middle-aged woman is very kind and cannot leave someone in trouble alone.' The structure describes the woman's character.
This sentence means 'When I was lost in the department store, a kind middle-aged woman showed me the way.' It follows a common narrative structure.
/ 66 correct
Perfect score!
Basic Meaning of Obasan
Understand that 「おばさん」 (obasan) primarily means aunt. It's often used for your mother's or father's sister.
Obasan for Non-Relatives
You can also use 「おばさん」 to refer to an older, middle-aged woman who is not your relative. It's similar to saying 'madam' or 'auntie' in English, but be aware of the nuances.
Politeness and Age
Be mindful that using 「おばさん」 for someone who is sensitive about their age can sometimes be perceived as impolite, especially if they are not your actual aunt and might not consider themselves 'middle-aged'.
Using Suffixes for Clarity
When referring to a specific aunt, you might add their name + さん (san) or use a more specific term if available, though 「おばさん」 is generally understood.
उदाहरण
近所のおばさんがいつも親切だ。
संबंधित सामग्री
यह शब्द अन्य भाषाओं में
family के और शब्द
還暦
B160th birthday (celebration of completing a 60-year cycle).
〜くらい
B1About; approximately; to the extent that.
認め合う
B1To recognize each other's worth; to acknowledge.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
甘える
B1To be spoiled, to fawn; to behave like a pampered child.
活発な
B1Active; lively; vigorous.
思春期
B1Adolescence; the period of transition from childhood to adulthood.
養子
B1Adopted child; a child taken into one's family by legal means.
養親
B2Adoptive parent.
