A kitten is a young cat, often characterized by its small size and playful nature.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Refers to a young or small cat.
- Commonly associated with cuteness and playfulness.
- Used in both casual conversation and animal welfare contexts.
概要
子猫（こねこ）は、猫の幼獣を指す一般的な名称です。成猫（おとなの猫）と区別され、その愛らしい外見やしぐさから、ペットとして非常に人気があります。生物学的には、生後数週間から半年程度までの個体を指すことが多いです。
類似語との比較
「仔猫」という漢字表記もありますが、一般的にはひらがなの「子」が使われます。「猫の子供」と言うこともありますが、単語として「子猫」と呼ぶのが最も自然です。成猫と対比されることが多く、成長段階を明確にしたい場合に用いられます。
Examples
道端で鳴いている子猫を見つけた。
everydayI found a kitten meowing on the side of the road.
保護された子猫の里親を募集しています。
formalWe are looking for foster parents for the rescued kittens.
うちの子猫、本当に可愛いの！
informalMy kitten is so cute!
子猫の成長過程に関する観察記録。
academicObservational records regarding the growth process of kittens.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
子猫のような目
kitten-like eyes
子猫を育てる
to raise a kitten
Often Confused With
Refers to an adult cat. Use '子猫' for the young ones and '成猫' for fully grown cats.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The term '子猫' is neutral and commonly used in all settings. It is neither overly formal nor slang. It is the standard way to refer to a kitten in Japanese.
Common Mistakes
Some learners might mistake '子猫' for a specific breed of cat. It is important to remember it refers to age, not breed. Also, ensure you don't use it for other animals.
Tips
Use for cute animals
When you see a very small cat, use '子猫' to emphasize its youth and cuteness. It is a very endearing term.
Do not confuse with kittens
While '子猫' directly translates to kitten, remember that it specifically refers to the biological stage of a cat's life.
Cat culture in Japan
Cats, especially kittens, are highly beloved in Japan, appearing frequently in anime, manga, and cat cafes.
Word Origin
The word is a compound of 'ko' (child/young) and 'neko' (cat). It has been used historically to distinguish the young of the species.
Cultural Context
Kittens are central to Japanese 'kawaii' culture. They are frequently featured in media and are symbols of innocence and comfort.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Ko' (child) + 'Neko' (cat). A 'child-cat' is a kitten!
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions明確な定義はありませんが、一般的には生後6ヶ月から1年未満の成長期までを指すことが多いです。
どちらも間違いではありませんが、一般的には「子猫」と表記するのが最も一般的で読みやすいです。
子猫は非常にデリケートなので、適切な温度管理や栄養バランスの良い食事、獣医師による健康診断が不可欠です。
まずは周囲に親猫がいないか確認し、必要であれば保護団体や動物病院に相談することをお勧めします。
Test Yourself
公園で捨てられた___を見つけました。
文脈から、公園で保護される対象として「子猫」が最も適切です。
「子猫」の説明として正しいものはどれですか？
子猫は年齢が若い猫を指す言葉です。
（1.子猫が 2.遊んでいる 3.庭で）
「庭で子猫が遊んでいる」という語順が自然です。
Score: /3
Summary
A kitten is a young cat, often characterized by its small size and playful nature.
- Refers to a young or small cat.
- Commonly associated with cuteness and playfulness.
- Used in both casual conversation and animal welfare contexts.
Use for cute animals
When you see a very small cat, use '子猫' to emphasize its youth and cuteness. It is a very endearing term.
Do not confuse with kittens
While '子猫' directly translates to kitten, remember that it specifically refers to the biological stage of a cat's life.
Cat culture in Japan
Cats, especially kittens, are highly beloved in Japan, appearing frequently in anime, manga, and cat cafes.
Examples
4 of 4道端で鳴いている子猫を見つけた。
I found a kitten meowing on the side of the road.
保護された子猫の里親を募集しています。
We are looking for foster parents for the rescued kittens.
うちの子猫、本当に可愛いの！
My kitten is so cute!
子猫の成長過程に関する観察記録。
Observational records regarding the growth process of kittens.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
More family words
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〜くらい
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認め合う
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知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
活発な
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甘える
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思春期
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養子
B1Adopted child; a child taken into one's family by legal means.
養親
B2Adoptive parent.
