A hero is an individual whose courageous actions or exceptional achievements earn them widespread admiration and lasting respect.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A person admired for bravery or great achievements.
- Often used for historical figures or fictional heroes.
- Implies significant positive impact on society.
使用パターン：名詞として独立して使われるほか、「英雄になる」「英雄として称えられる」といった動詞と組み合わせて使用されます。また、特定の分野で偉大な成果を上げた人物を指す際にも使われます。
- 1一般的な文脈：歴史、政治、スポーツ、物語（映画やアニメ）の文脈で頻繁に使用されます。特に、困難に立ち向かって民衆を救った人物や、逆境を跳ね返して勝利したアスリートを指す際に「彼は時代の英雄だ」のように表現します。
- 1類語との比較：『勇者（ゆうしゃ）』は主にファンタジー作品の主人公や、RPGのキャラクターを指すのに対し、『英雄』は現実の歴史上の人物や、より広範な社会的功績を強調するニュアンスが強いです。『偉人（いじん）』は、歴史的に多大な功績を残した人物を指し、必ずしも勇気や戦いといった要素を必要としません。
Examples
彼は時代の英雄として語り継がれている。
formalHe is remembered as a hero of his time.
子供にとって、父はいつも英雄だった。
everydayTo the child, the father was always a hero.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
英雄色を好む
Great heroes are often fond of women (a traditional proverb).
英雄を気取る
to pose as a hero
Often Confused With
Refers specifically to a brave person, often used in fantasy games or stories. It lacks the historical weight of '英雄'.
Refers to a person of great achievement in history. It focuses more on intellectual or cultural contributions rather than physical bravery.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The term '英雄' carries a strong, positive connotation of historical significance. It is typically used in formal writing, speeches, or when discussing legends. Avoid using it for trivial daily tasks as it will sound exaggerated or sarcastic.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use '英雄' for any person they like, such as a favorite singer. However, it should be reserved for those who have performed extraordinary, selfless, or historically impactful deeds.
Tips
Use with honorifics for respect
When referring to a historical hero, adding 'の' or honorifics can show deeper respect. It emphasizes their legendary status.
Avoid overusing in daily life
Calling someone an '英雄' in a casual conversation might sound sarcastic or overly dramatic. Reserve it for significant achievements.
Historical context in Japan
In Japan, figures like Oda Nobunaga or Sakamoto Ryoma are often discussed as historical heroes. Their image is deeply tied to national identity.
Word Origin
The word originates from Chinese characters where '英' means outstanding/brilliant and '雄' means a powerful man or leader. Together, they describe a man of exceptional intellect and physical prowess.
Cultural Context
In Japanese culture, heroes are often those who sacrifice themselves for the greater good. This reflects the bushido spirit of loyalty and bravery found in historical narratives.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Eiyu' as 'Excellent You' who saved the world. The sound 'Ei' relates to 'Eisei' (glory) and 'Yu' relates to 'Yuki' (courage).
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsはい、使います。特に国を代表して戦い、大きな勝利をもたらした選手や、長年困難を乗り越えて活躍した選手に対して「国民的英雄」のように表現することがあります。
意味はほぼ同じですが、「ヒーロー」はカタカナ語としてより日常的でカジュアルな文脈で使われ、アニメや映画のキャラクターを指すことが多いです。「英雄」はより重厚で、歴史的な響きがあります。
非常に稀ですが、皮肉を込めて「自称・英雄」のように、実際には功績がないのに自分を偉いと思っている人を揶揄する文脈で使われることはあります。
文脈によりますが、社会に害をなす人という意味では「悪人」や「悪役」が対照的です。また、歴史的に否定的な評価を受ける人としては「逆賊」などが挙げられます。
Test Yourself
彼は国を救った___として、国民から深く敬愛されている。
文脈から、国を救ったという偉大な功績を指す言葉である「英雄」が適切です。
Score: /1
Summary
A hero is an individual whose courageous actions or exceptional achievements earn them widespread admiration and lasting respect.
- A person admired for bravery or great achievements.
- Often used for historical figures or fictional heroes.
- Implies significant positive impact on society.
Use with honorifics for respect
When referring to a historical hero, adding 'の' or honorifics can show deeper respect. It emphasizes their legendary status.
Avoid overusing in daily life
Calling someone an '英雄' in a casual conversation might sound sarcastic or overly dramatic. Reserve it for significant achievements.
Historical context in Japan
In Japan, figures like Oda Nobunaga or Sakamoto Ryoma are often discussed as historical heroes. Their image is deeply tied to national identity.
Examples
2 of 2彼は時代の英雄として語り継がれている。
He is remembered as a hero of his time.
子供にとって、父はいつも英雄だった。
To the child, the father was always a hero.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Vocabulary
More history words
繁栄
B1The state of being successful, flourishing, or thriving, especially regarding wealth or growth of a nation or business.
衰退
B1The process of a country, industry, or culture losing power, strength, or vigor and moving toward a decline.
中世
B1The Middle Ages, the period between ancient and modern times.
近代
B1Modern times, recent ages, often after the Middle Ages.
事柄
B2A matter, affair, or a specific historical event.
王様
A2A king, a male sovereign ruler of an independent state.
歴史家
B1A historian, a person who studies and writes about the past.
遺産
B2Heritage, legacy, or something inherited from the past.
植民地
B2A colony, a country or area under the full or partial political control of another.
宮殿
B1A palace, the official residence of a sovereign or head of state.
