未婚 in 30 Seconds
- Unmarried (never married).
- Formal term for never married.
- Used in official documents and statistics.
- Distinct from divorced or widowed.
The Japanese word 未婚 (みこん - mikon) translates directly to 'unmarried' or 'single' in English. It's a formal term used to describe a person who has never been married. You'll encounter this word in various situations, from official documents and surveys to casual conversations about marital status.
- Official Contexts
- In government forms, census data, and questionnaires, 未婚 is used to categorize individuals based on their marital status. It's a standard demographic descriptor.
- Demographics and Statistics
- Sociologists and researchers use 未婚 to analyze population trends, marriage rates, and the age at which people typically marry.
- Personal Information
- When filling out applications for jobs, housing, or other services, you might be asked for your marital status, and 未婚 would be the appropriate term if you have never been married.
- Discussions about Marriage
- In conversations about social norms, life stages, or future plans, people might use 未婚 to refer to someone's current status before they get married.
この調査では、未婚者の割合を明らかにすることを目指しています。
彼女はまだ未婚です。
It's important to note that 未婚 is a neutral and objective term. It doesn't carry any inherent judgment about a person's marital status. It's simply a factual description. In Japanese society, like in many others, marital status can be a significant aspect of personal and social identity, and terms like 未婚 play a role in how this identity is expressed and understood.
- Nuance in Usage
- While 未婚 is the most precise term for someone who has never married, sometimes in very casual conversation, people might use 独身 (dokushin) more broadly to mean 'single,' which could encompass those who are unmarried, divorced, or widowed. However, for official or clear communication, 未婚 is preferred for those who have never married.
彼は現在未婚です。
Using 未婚 (みこん - mikon) correctly in sentences involves understanding its grammatical function as a noun that describes a state or status. It is often used in conjunction with verbs like 'is' (です - desu) or 'to be' (いる - iru), or as part of descriptive phrases.
- As a Predicate
- The most common way to use 未婚 is as a predicate, stating someone's marital status. For example, 「彼は未婚です。」 (Kare wa mikon desu.) means 'He is unmarried.'
- Modifying Nouns
- 未婚 can sometimes be used adjectivally before a noun, although this is less common and often sounds more formal or technical. For instance, 未婚者 (mikonsha) means 'unmarried person'.
- In Questions
- You can ask about someone's marital status using 未婚. For example, 「あなたは未婚ですか？」 (Anata wa mikon desu ka?) means 'Are you unmarried?'
- In Formal Surveys
- In official documents or surveys, you might see options like 「未婚」 (Unmarried), 「既婚」 (Married), 「死別」 (Widowed), 「離別」 (Divorced). 未婚 is the specific choice for never having been married.
彼女はまだ未婚ですが、将来結婚したいと思っています。
このアンケートでは、あなたの配偶者の有無についてお伺いします。未婚、既婚、死別、離別からお選びください。
Understanding the context is crucial. While 独身 (dokushin) is a common word for 'single', 未婚 is more precise for someone who has never married and is preferred in formal or official settings. Using 未婚 correctly demonstrates a nuanced understanding of Japanese vocabulary related to personal status.
- Common Sentence Structures
- * Subject + は/が + 未婚 + です/である。(e.g., 彼は未婚です。) - He is unmarried.
- * Subject + は/が + 未婚 + の + Noun。(e.g., 未婚の女性 - mikon no josei - unmarried woman)
- * 未婚 + 者 (mikonsha) - unmarried person
私の友人の多くはまだ未婚です。
You'll encounter 未婚 (みこん - mikon) in a variety of real-life situations, primarily in contexts where marital status needs to be clearly and formally identified. It's less common in casual, everyday chat among close friends unless the topic specifically revolves around marriage or demographics.
- Government and Official Forms
- This is perhaps the most frequent place you'll see 未婚. When filling out applications for resident registration, driver's licenses, passports, or any official government document that asks for personal information, you will find 未婚 as an option for marital status.
- Surveys and Questionnaires
- Sociological studies, market research, and census surveys often use 未婚 to categorize respondents. For example, a survey about lifestyle choices might ask, 「あなたの現在の婚姻状況は？ 未婚 / 既婚 / 死別 / 離別」 (Anata no genzai no kon'in jōkyō wa? Mikon / Kikon / Shibetsu / Ribetsu - What is your current marital status? Unmarried / Married / Widowed / Divorced).
- Legal and Financial Documents
- Documents related to contracts, loans, insurance policies, or inheritance may require a precise statement of marital status, where 未婚 is used to indicate a person has never been married.
- News Reports and Academic Articles
- When discussing demographic trends, marriage rates, or social changes in Japan, news articles and academic papers will frequently use 未婚 to refer to the segment of the population that has never married. For instance, a report might state, 「近年、未婚率が上昇傾向にある。」 (Kinnen, mikonritsu ga jōshō keikō ni aru - In recent years, the unmarried rate has been on the rise).
- Human Resources and Employment
- In some employment contexts, particularly when filling out company internal documents or benefits applications, marital status might be requested, and 未婚 would be the correct designation for an employee who has never married.
この統計データによると、20代の未婚率は過去最高を記録しました。
大学卒業後、彼はしばらく未婚のままでした。
When learning and using 未婚 (みこん - mikon), learners might make a few common mistakes, often related to confusing it with similar terms or using it in inappropriate contexts. Understanding these pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately.
- Confusing 未婚 with 独身
- The most frequent mistake is using 未婚 interchangeably with 独身 (どくしん - dokushin). While both can mean 'single', 未婚 specifically means 'never married'. 独身 can sometimes be used more broadly to include people who are divorced or widowed, although it most commonly means never married. In formal or official situations, 未婚 is the precise term for someone who has never been married. Using 独身 when 未婚 is required can lead to a slight inaccuracy.
- Using it in overly casual settings
- 未婚 is a relatively formal term. While not incorrect, using it in very casual conversations among close friends might sound a bit stiff or overly official. In such contexts, 独身 or simply stating one's situation might be more natural.
- Incorrectly forming compound words
- While 未婚 itself is a noun, learners might try to create new compound words incorrectly. For example, trying to add suffixes or combine it with other words without understanding established Japanese word formation. The most common and correct compound is 未婚者 (mikonsha - unmarried person).
- Misinterpreting its scope
- Some learners might assume 未婚 implies a choice or a preference, rather than simply a factual status. It is a neutral term and doesn't carry connotations of being 'single by choice' versus 'single because one hasn't found someone yet'.
Mistake: 彼は独身ですが、以前結婚していました。
Correct Usage: 彼は未婚です。
To avoid these mistakes, focus on the specific meaning of 未婚: 'never married'. Pay attention to the context; if it's official or requires precision, 未婚 is the best choice. For more casual settings, 独身 might be more natural, but be aware of its broader potential meaning.
Understanding words similar to 未婚 (みこん - mikon) helps to grasp its specific nuance and choose the most appropriate term for different situations. The primary alternative is 独身 (どくしん - dokushin), but there are other related terms depending on the context.
- 独身 (どくしん - dokushin)
- Meaning: Single, unmarried. This is the most common alternative.
Usage: 独身 is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. It can refer to someone who has never married, but it can also sometimes be used more broadly to include people who are divorced or widowed, though this is less common and context-dependent.
Comparison: 未婚 is more precise for 'never married'. 独身 is more general for 'single'.
Example: 彼女は独身で、一人暮らしを楽しんでいます。(Kanojo wa dokushin de, hitorigurashi o tanoshinde imasu.) - She is single and enjoys living alone. - 未婚者 (みこんしゃ - mikonsha)
- Meaning: Unmarried person.
Usage: This is a compound word formed by adding 者 (sha - person) to 未婚. It is used to refer to individuals who are unmarried.
Comparison: It's essentially a noun form of 未婚, making the subject explicit.
Example: 未婚者の増加は社会的な課題です。(Mikonsha no zōka wa shakaiteki na kadai desu.) - The increase in unmarried people is a social issue. - シングル (shinguru)
- Meaning: Single (loanword from English).
Usage: This is a casual and modern term, often used in everyday conversation, especially among younger people. It's similar in usage to 独身 but perhaps more informal.
Comparison: Very informal. Not suitable for official documents.
Example: 彼はまだシングルだよ。(Kare wa mada shinguru da yo.) - He's still single. - Married Status Terms (for contrast)
- 既婚 (きこん - kikon): Married. This is the direct antonym of 未婚.
死別 (しべつ - shibetsu): Widowed.
離別 (りべつ - ribetsu): Divorced.
These terms are important for understanding the full spectrum of marital statuses often presented alongside 未婚 in official forms and surveys.
未婚 (mikon) vs. 独身 (dokushin)
未婚: Specifically 'never married'. Formal.
独身: Generally 'single', can sometimes include divorced/widowed, but most often means 'never married'. More common in casual speech.
彼女は未婚のままだが、結婚願望はある。
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji character 未 (mi) is also used in words like 未来 (mirai - future) and 未満 (miman - less than), all indicating a state of 'not yet' or 'incomplete'. The character 婚 (kon) is related to words like 結婚 (kekkon - marriage) and 離婚 (rikon - divorce). The combination is straightforward and logical.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'mi' with a long 'ee' sound like 'mee'. It should be a short 'i' sound.
- Pronouncing 'kon' like 'con' in 'control'. It should rhyme with 'gone' or 'con' in 'condom'.
- Putting the stress on the first syllable instead of the second.
Difficulty Rating
At B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. Reading texts containing 未婚, especially in contexts like news articles or surveys about social trends, should be manageable. Understanding the specific meaning of 'unmarried' is key, and recognizing its usage in demographic data is part of B1 reading skills.
At B1, learners can write clear, detailed text on a range of subjects. Using 未婚 correctly in sentences, especially in formal contexts like filling out forms or writing about personal status, is achievable. They should be able to construct sentences like 'He is unmarried' or use it in descriptive contexts related to personal information.
B1 speakers can communicate spontaneously and fluently on familiar topics. Discussing personal information, including marital status, is within their capability. They can state their own status as 未婚 or inquire about others' status in appropriate situations. Understanding the context for using 未婚 versus more casual terms is important.
B1 listeners can understand the main points of clear standard speech on familiar matters. Hearing 未婚 in conversations about personal life, news reports on demographics, or announcements should be understandable. Recognizing the word and its meaning in context is a key B1 listening skill.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using です (desu) or である (de aru) to state a status.
彼は未婚です。(Kare wa mikon desu.) - He is unmarried. / 彼は未婚である。(Kare wa mikon de aru.) - He is unmarried (more formal).
Using の (no) to connect 未婚 with a noun (making it function like an adjective).
未婚の女性 (Mikon no josei) - unmarried woman.
Using まま (mama) to indicate a state of continuing.
未婚のまま (Mikon no mama) - while remaining unmarried.
Using particles like は (wa) and が (ga) with 未婚者 (mikonsha - unmarried person).
未婚者は増加しています。(Mikonsha wa zōka shite imasu.) - Unmarried people are increasing.
Forming compound nouns like 未婚率 (mikonritsu - unmarried rate).
未婚率の上昇 (Mikonritsu no jōshō) - The rise in the unmarried rate.
Examples by Level
これは私の写真です。私は独身です。
This is my photo. I am single.
独身 (dokushin) is used here for 'single'. 未婚 (mikon) would be too formal for this simple personal introduction.
彼はまだ結婚していません。
He is not married yet.
This sentence uses the verb 'to marry' (結婚する - kekkon suru) in its negative form. It conveys the idea of being unmarried without using the specific noun 'unmarried'.
あなたの名前と年齢を教えてください。
Please tell me your name and age.
This is a common question at A2 level. Marital status is usually asked later or in more formal contexts.
彼女は一人暮らしです。
She lives alone.
Living alone often implies being single, but doesn't directly state marital status.
私は学生です。
I am a student.
Basic self-introduction, focusing on occupation.
これは私の家族です。
This is my family.
Basic introduction of family members.
はい、そうです。
Yes, that's right.
Simple affirmation.
いいえ、違います。
No, that's wrong.
Simple negation.
彼女はまだ未婚ですが、将来結婚したいと考えています。
She is still unmarried, but she is thinking about getting married in the future.
未婚 (mikon) is used correctly to state the current marital status. 「と考えています」 (to kangaete imasu) means 'is thinking' or 'is considering'.
このアンケートでは、あなたの婚姻状況を未婚、既婚、死別、離別から選んでください。
In this questionnaire, please select your marital status from unmarried, married, widowed, or divorced.
This sentence shows 未婚 used in a typical official context, alongside other marital status terms.
彼は30歳ですが、まだ未婚です。
He is 30 years old, but he is still unmarried.
Directly states age and marital status using 未婚.
最近、未婚率が上昇しているというニュースを見ました。
I recently saw news that the unmarried rate is increasing.
未婚率 (mikonritsu) means 'unmarried rate'. This shows a common usage in discussions of social trends.
未婚のまま一生を終える人もいます。
There are also people who spend their whole lives unmarried.
「未婚のまま」 (mikon no mama) means 'while remaining unmarried'.
彼女は未婚者として登録されています。
She is registered as an unmarried person.
未婚者 (mikonsha) means 'unmarried person'. The sentence uses the passive form 「登録されています」 (tōroku sarete imasu).
結婚の予定はありますか？
Do you have any plans to get married?
A common question that might lead to the answer 'I am unmarried' (未婚です - mikon desu).
彼は独身貴族と呼ばれています。
He is called a 'single noble'.
While this uses 独身, it relates to the social status of being single, which contrasts with being married.
近年の晩婚化と未婚率の上昇は、日本の社会構造に大きな影響を与えています。
The recent trend of late marriage and the rise in the unmarried rate are having a significant impact on Japan's social structure.
Combines 'late marriage' (晩婚化 - bankonka), 'unmarried rate' (未婚率 - mikonritsu), and 'social structure' (社会構造 - shakai kōzō). Demonstrates understanding of societal issues.
彼女はキャリアを優先するため、意図的に未婚の道を選びました。
She intentionally chose the path of remaining unmarried in order to prioritize her career.
Uses 未婚 to describe a deliberate choice related to life priorities, showing a deeper understanding of the term's implications.
未婚の親を持つ子供たちのための支援制度が拡充されるべきだ。
Support systems for children with unmarried parents should be expanded.
Uses 未婚 to qualify 'parents', referring to single parents who have never married. 「拡充されるべきだ」 (kakujū sareru beki da) means 'should be expanded'.
社会学的な観点から、未婚化の背景にある経済的・文化的な要因を分析する。
From a sociological perspective, analyze the economic and cultural factors behind the increase in unmarried individuals.
Discusses the phenomenon of increasing unmarried individuals (未婚化 - mikonka) from an academic standpoint, mentioning economic and cultural factors.
多くの先進国で、未婚のまま出産するケースが増加傾向にある。
In many developed countries, the number of cases of giving birth while remaining unmarried is on the rise.
Discusses a global demographic trend involving unmarried individuals and childbirth.
伝統的な家族観が変化する中で、未婚という選択肢も社会的に認知されつつある。
As traditional views of the family change, the option of remaining unmarried is also gaining social recognition.
Explores the societal acceptance of remaining unmarried as a valid life choice.
未婚の定義は国や文化によって異なる場合がある。
The definition of 'unmarried' can vary by country and culture.
Highlights the cross-cultural nuances of the term 'unmarried'.
彼の未婚の理由は、恋愛よりも仕事に集中したいという自己実現欲求から来ている。
The reason for his being unmarried stems from a desire for self-realization, wanting to focus on work rather than romance.
Explains the personal motivation behind remaining unmarried.
現代社会における未婚化の進行は、少子高齢化問題と密接に関連しており、その多角的な要因分析が急務である。
The progression of increasing unmarried individuals in modern society is closely linked to the problems of declining birthrate and aging population, and a multifaceted analysis of its factors is urgently needed.
Uses advanced vocabulary like 進行 (shinkō - progression), 少子高齢化 (shōshi kōreika - declining birthrate and aging population), and 多角的 (takakuteki - multifaceted) to discuss the societal implications of 'unmarriedness'.
個人の自己決定権が尊重される風潮の中で、未婚というライフスタイルに対する社会的な偏見は薄れつつある。
In an atmosphere where individual self-determination is respected, social prejudice against the lifestyle of remaining unmarried is gradually fading.
Discusses the changing social perception of remaining unmarried as a valid 'lifestyle' (ライフスタイル - raifusutairu), contrasting it with societal prejudice (偏見 - henken).
未婚の増加は、単に個人の選択の結果だけでなく、経済的格差や雇用不安といった構造的な問題にも起因している。
The increase in unmarried individuals is not merely a result of personal choice, but also stems from structural issues such as economic disparity and employment insecurity.
Analyzes the causes of increased unmarriedness, attributing it to systemic issues like economic inequality (経済的格差 - keizaiteki kakusa) and job insecurity (雇用不安 - koyō fuan).
未婚率の上昇は、結婚制度そのもののあり方や、家族の定義について再考を促す契機となっている。
The rise in the unmarried rate serves as an opportunity to reconsider the very nature of the institution of marriage and the definition of family.
Explores how the trend of remaining unmarried prompts a re-examination (再考 - saikō) of marriage and family concepts.
法制度における「未婚」の定義は、相続や扶養義務といった権利義務関係に影響を及ぼすため、その解釈には注意が必要である。
The definition of 'unmarried' in legal systems affects rights and obligations such as inheritance and duty of support, therefore careful interpretation is necessary.
Focuses on the legal implications of the term 'unmarried', specifically concerning inheritance (相続 - sōzoku) and support obligations (扶養義務 - fuyō gimu).
未婚の親が直面する社会的な孤立や経済的負担の軽減策について、具体的な議論が求められている。
Concrete discussions are needed regarding measures to alleviate the social isolation and economic burden faced by unmarried parents.
Addresses the challenges faced by unmarried parents and calls for practical solutions (軽減策 - keigensaku).
グローバル化が進む現代において、未婚という選択肢は多様なライフコースの一つとして認識されるようになってきた。
In the modern era of advancing globalization, the choice of remaining unmarried has come to be recognized as one of many diverse life courses.
Discusses the increasing recognition of remaining unmarried as a valid 'life course' (ライフコース - raifukōsu) in a globalized world.
未婚の増加は、従来の家族モデルからの逸脱と見なされることもあるが、それは多様化する社会の一側面である。
The increase in unmarried individuals may sometimes be seen as a deviation from traditional family models, but it is one aspect of a diversifying society.
Presents the increase in unmarriedness as a facet of societal diversification, rather than solely a departure from tradition.
未婚化の進行は、単なる個人のライフスタイルの選択に還元できない、複雑な社会経済的・文化的変容の複合的帰結として捉えるべきである。
The progression of increasing unmarried individuals should be understood as a complex, composite outcome of socio-economic and cultural transformations, which cannot be reduced merely to the selection of personal lifestyles.
Uses highly sophisticated vocabulary like 還元できない (kangen dekinai - cannot be reduced to), 複合的帰結 (fukugōteki ketsū - composite outcome), and 変容 (hen'yō - transformation) to provide a deep analysis of the phenomenon.
法制度における「未婚」の解釈は、その歴史的変遷や、時代ごとの社会規範との相互作用を考慮に入れなければ、現代的な課題への適切な対応を誤る可能性がある。
The interpretation of 'unmarried' within legal systems risks misinterpreting appropriate responses to contemporary issues if the historical evolution and interaction with societal norms of each era are not taken into consideration.
Examines the historical and normative context of legal definitions of 'unmarried', emphasizing the potential for misinterpretation without historical perspective.
未婚という状況がもたらす社会的な影響は、少子化、労働力不足、地域社会の維持困難性など、多岐にわたり、その包括的な政策立案が喫緊の課題となっている。
The societal impacts brought about by the state of being unmarried are wide-ranging, including declining birth rates, labor shortages, and difficulties in maintaining local communities, making comprehensive policy formulation an urgent task.
Connects the state of being unmarried (未婚という状況 - mikon to iu jōkyō) to broad societal challenges like labor shortages (労働力不足 - rōdōryoku fusoku) and community maintenance (地域社会の維持困難性 - chiiki shakai no iji konnansei).
現代日本における未婚化の現象は、西洋的な個人主義の浸透だけでなく、内向き志向や経済的停滞といった固有の要因が複合的に作用した結果であると論じられている。
The phenomenon of increasing unmarried individuals in modern Japan is argued to be the result of a complex interplay of unique factors such as inward-looking tendencies and economic stagnation, not solely the penetration of Western individualism.
Presents a nuanced argument about the causes of 'unmarriedness' in Japan, contrasting global influences with specific domestic factors like inward-looking tendencies (内向き志向 - uchimuki shikō).
未婚の親が直面する子育て支援の格差は、社会階層間の不平等を再生産するメカニズムとなりうるため、その是正に向けた包括的なアプローチが不可欠である。
The disparity in childcare support faced by unmarried parents can become a mechanism for reproducing inequality between social strata, thus a comprehensive approach towards its rectification is indispensable.
Analyzes how disparities in support for unmarried parents can perpetuate social inequality (社会階層間の不平等 - shakai kaisōkan no fubiōdo) and calls for corrective measures (是正 - zesei).
結婚制度の変容と未婚化の進展は、家族の定義や機能に関するパラダイムシフトを促し、新たな社会規範の形成を不可避のものとしている。
The transformation of the marriage system and the advancement of increasing unmarried individuals are prompting a paradigm shift concerning the definition and function of family, making the formation of new social norms inevitable.
Discusses the profound impact of changing marriage patterns and unmarriedness on the fundamental concepts of family and the emergence of new societal norms (社会規範 - shakai kihan).
未婚という選択肢の普及は、個人の幸福追求の多様化を示すと同時に、社会保障制度の持続可能性に対する新たな課題を提起している。
The spread of the option of remaining unmarried simultaneously indicates the diversification of the pursuit of individual happiness and raises new challenges for the sustainability of the social security system.
Explores the dual implications of increased unmarriedness: the diversification of personal happiness and the challenges posed to social security systems (社会保障制度 - shakai hoshō seido).
現代社会において、未婚の個人が直面する社会的・経済的脆弱性は、従来のセーフティネットでは対応しきれない側面があり、より包括的かつ個別化された支援策の構築が求められている。
The social and economic vulnerabilities faced by unmarried individuals in modern society have aspects that cannot be adequately addressed by traditional safety nets, necessitating the construction of more comprehensive and individualized support measures.
Highlights the inadequacy of existing support systems (セーフティネット - sēfutinetto) for unmarried individuals and calls for tailored solutions (個別化された支援策 - kobetsuka sareta shien saku).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I am unmarried.
あなたの婚姻状況は？ （あなたのこんいんじょうきょうは？） What is your marital status? 未婚です。 （みこんです。） I am unmarried.
— Remaining unmarried; while unmarried.
彼女はキャリアを優先するため、未婚のままです。 (Kanojo wa kyaria o yūsen suru tame, mikon no mama desu.) She remains unmarried because she prioritizes her career.
— Unmarried person.
未婚者向けのイベントが開催されました。 (Mikonsha muke no ibento ga kaisai saremashita.) An event for unmarried people was held.
— Unmarried rate.
この国の未婚率は近年上昇傾向にあります。 (Kono kuni no mikonritsu wa kinnen jōshō keikō ni arimasu.) The unmarried rate in this country has been on the rise in recent years.
— Reason(s) for being unmarried.
未婚の理由について、皆で話し合いました。 (Mikon no riyū ni tsuite, minna de hanashiaimashita.) We all discussed the reasons for being unmarried.
— Unmarried parent.
未婚の親が子育てで直面する困難について学びました。 (Mikon no oya ga kosodate de chokumen suru konnan ni tsuite manabimashita.) We learned about the difficulties faced by unmarried parents in raising children.
— Giving birth while unmarried.
未婚のまま出産する人が増えています。 (Mikon no mama shussan suru hito ga fuete imasu.) The number of people giving birth while unmarried is increasing.
— Survey of unmarried people.
政府は未婚の調査を実施しました。 (Seifu wa mikon no chōsa o jisshi shimashita.) The government conducted a survey of unmarried people.
— Unmarried population.
未婚の人口が年々増加しています。 (Mikon no jinkō ga nen'nen zōka shite imasu.) The unmarried population is increasing year by year.
— An unmarried society; a society with a high rate of unmarriedness.
未婚の社会における家族のあり方について議論されています。 (Mikon no shakai ni okeru kazoku no arikata ni tsuite giron sarete imasu.) Discussions are being held about the nature of families in an unmarried society.
Often Confused With
While both mean 'single' or 'unmarried', 未婚 specifically refers to someone who has *never* been married. 独身 can sometimes be used more broadly, and in casual contexts, it's often preferred. However, for precision, especially in official settings, 未婚 is the correct term for 'never married'.
This is an informal loanword from English. It's used in casual conversation to mean 'single' or 'not in a relationship'. It lacks the formality and specific meaning of 'never married' that 未婚 carries.
This is the act or state of being married, the direct opposite of being unmarried. Learners might confuse the state of 'being unmarried' with the concept of 'marriage' itself.
Easily Confused
Both 未婚 and 独身 relate to not being married. 独身 is the more common, general term for 'single'.
未婚 specifically means 'never married'. 独身 is broader and can sometimes include divorced or widowed individuals, although it most commonly means never married. In formal contexts, 未婚 is preferred for precision. In casual chat, 独身 is more frequent.
Official form: 未婚 (unmarried, never married). Casual chat: 「彼はまだ独身だよ。」 (He's still single.)
It's a loanword that also means 'single'.
シングル is very informal and often used in casual conversation or modern media. It can also imply 'not in a relationship' rather than strictly 'never married'. 未婚 is formal and precise.
Formal document: 未婚. Casual conversation: 「彼女、シングルなんだって。」 (I heard she's single.)
It's the direct opposite of 未婚, making it a potential point of confusion if the distinction isn't clear.
未婚 means 'never married'. 既婚 means 'currently married'. They are antonyms and refer to distinct marital statuses.
未婚 (unmarried) vs. 既婚 (married).
It's another marital status often presented alongside 未婚 and 既婚.
未婚 means 'never married'. 離別 means 'divorced'. It refers to someone whose marriage has ended through divorce.
未婚 (never married) vs. 離別 (divorced).
It's a derived word from 未婚.
未婚 is the status itself (unmarried). 未婚者 is a noun referring to a person who holds that status ('unmarried person').
彼は未婚です。(He is unmarried.) vs. 彼は未婚者です。(He is an unmarried person.)
Sentence Patterns
Subject + は/が + 未婚 + です。
私は未婚です。 (Watashi wa mikon desu.) I am unmarried.
Subject + は/が + 未婚 + の + Noun。
未婚の男性 (Mikon no dansei) Unmarried man
未婚者 + は/が + ...
未婚者は増加しています。 (Mikonsha wa zōka shite imasu.) Unmarried people are increasing.
未婚 + の + まま + Verb。
未婚のまま一人暮らしをしています。 (Mikon no mama hitorigurashi o shite imasu.) Living alone while remaining unmarried.
未婚率 + が + Verb/Adjective。
未婚率が上昇しています。 (Mikonritsu ga jōshō shite imasu.) The unmarried rate is rising.
未婚化 + が + Verb/Adjective。
未婚化が進んでいる。 (Mikonka ga susunde iru.) The trend of increasing unmarried people is advancing.
未婚の理由 + は + ...
未婚の理由は人それぞれです。 (Mikon no riyū wa hito sorezore desu.) The reasons for being unmarried vary from person to person.
未婚の親 + (particle) + ...
未婚の親への支援が大切です。 (Mikon no oya e no shien ga taisetsu desu.) Support for unmarried parents is important.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
High in official contexts and demographic discussions; medium in general conversation about personal status.
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Confusing 未婚 (mikon) with 独身 (dokushin).
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Use 未婚 specifically for 'never married' in formal contexts. Use 独身 more generally for 'single' or in casual settings.
While both relate to being unmarried, 未婚 is precise for 'never married' and formal. 独身 is broader and more common in casual speech. Using 独身 when precision is needed can be inaccurate.
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Using 未婚 in very casual conversations.
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Opt for 独身 or シングル in informal settings.
未婚 is a formal term. Using it among close friends might sound too stiff or overly official. 独身 or シングル are more natural choices for casual chat.
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Assuming 未婚 implies being unable to find a partner.
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Recognize 未婚 as a neutral status, not necessarily indicating a lack of opportunity or desire.
The word 未婚 simply states the fact of never having been married. It doesn't imply that the person couldn't find a partner or didn't want to. It can be a personal choice or due to various life circumstances.
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Using 未婚 for divorced or widowed individuals.
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Use 離別 (ribetsu) for divorced and 死別 (shibetsu) for widowed.
未婚 strictly means 'never married'. It is incorrect to use it for someone whose marriage has ended through divorce or the death of a spouse. These are distinct marital statuses.
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Incorrect pronunciation.
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Pronounce it as 'mi-KON', stressing the second syllable.
Common errors include stressing the first syllable or mispronouncing the vowel sounds. Correct pronunciation is crucial for clear communication.
Tips
Master the Pronunciation
Pay close attention to the pronunciation of 未婚 (mikon). The 'mi' sound is short, like in 'me', and 'kon' rhymes with 'gone'. The stress falls on the second syllable: mi-KON. Practicing this will make your speech clearer and more natural.
Understand the Context
未婚 is a formal term. You'll see it most often on official documents, surveys, and in news reports discussing demographics. While understood in casual talk, 独身 or シングル are often more natural for everyday conversations about personal relationships.
Distinguish from 独身
Remember that 未婚 specifically means 'never married'. 独身 is broader and can sometimes include divorced or widowed individuals, though it most commonly means never married. For precise communication, especially in formal settings, 未婚 is the correct choice for someone who has never married.
Use in Sentences
Practice using 未婚 in sentences. Common patterns include 'Subject + は/が + 未婚 + です' (e.g., 私は未婚です - I am unmarried) or '未婚の + Noun' (e.g., 未婚の女性 - unmarried woman). Also, learn related terms like 未婚者 (unmarried person) and 未婚率 (unmarried rate).
Create Mnemonics
Use memory aids! Connect 'mi' in 未婚 to 'me' ('Me? Unmarried!') or 'kon' to 'gone' ('My marriage has gone' - meaning it never happened). Visual associations, like a blank marriage certificate, can also help solidify the meaning.
Know the Antonyms
Understanding the antonyms is crucial. The direct opposite of 未婚 is 既婚 (kikon - married). Also, be aware of 離別 (ribetsu - divorced) and 死別 (shibetsu - widowed) as other marital statuses.
Consider Societal Context
While 未婚 is a neutral term, the societal context around marriage in Japan can influence how marital status is perceived. The increasing rate of unmarried individuals (未婚化) is a significant topic, reflecting evolving attitudes towards career, independence, and marriage itself.
Practice with Exercises
Engage with fill-in-the-blank, multiple-choice, and sentence-building exercises. Actively using 未婚 in different contexts will greatly improve your retention and accuracy.
Explore Related Terms
Learn related terms like 未婚者 (unmarried person), 未婚率 (unmarried rate), and 未婚化 (trend of increasing unmarriedness). Understanding these will give you a broader vocabulary related to the topic.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
Remember that 未婚 is formal. If you're writing a formal letter or filling out a form, use 未婚. If you're chatting with friends, 独身 or シングル are more common and sound more natural.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of the 'mi' in 未婚 sounding like 'me'. Imagine yourself saying 'Me? Unmarried!' This can help associate the sound with the meaning. Another mnemonic: 'Mi' sounds like 'my', and 'kon' sounds like 'gone'. So, 'My marriage has gone' (meaning it never happened yet).
Visual Association
Picture a person holding a blank marriage certificate, with a question mark above their head. This visually represents the state of 'not yet married'. Or, imagine a clock with the hands pointing to 'not yet time' for marriage.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 未婚 in three different sentences describing hypothetical people. For example: 'My cousin is still 未婚.' 'The survey asked if the respondent was 未婚.' 'She decided to remain 未婚 to focus on her studies.'
Word Origin
The word 未婚 (mikon) is formed from two kanji characters. 未 (mi) means 'not yet' or 'un-', and 婚 (kon) means 'marriage' or 'to marry'. Together, they literally mean 'not yet married'. This is a common way to form words indicating negation or an incomplete state in Japanese.
Original meaning: The characters themselves carry the meaning: 'not yet' (未) and 'marriage' (婚). Thus, the original meaning is directly 'not yet married'.
JapaneseCultural Context
未婚 is a neutral, factual term. However, in some social contexts, there can be underlying societal expectations or pressures related to marriage. While the term itself is not sensitive, the societal context surrounding marital status can be. It's generally best to use it factually and avoid making assumptions or judgments about why someone is unmarried.
In English-speaking cultures, 'unmarried' is straightforward. However, the term 'single' is much more broadly used and can encompass never married, divorced, or widowed individuals, making 'unmarried' a more specific term when needed. The social pressure or expectation surrounding marriage can vary greatly.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Official Forms and Applications
- 婚姻状況：未婚
- 配偶者：なし（未婚）
- 最終学歴：〇〇大学卒業（未婚）
Demographic Surveys
- 未婚者の増加
- 未婚率の推移
- 未婚の理由
News Reports on Social Trends
- 未婚化社会
- 晩婚化と未婚
- 未婚の親
Personal Conversations (Formal/Semi-Formal)
- 私は未婚です。
- 彼女はまだ未婚です。
- 彼は未婚のままです。
Academic Discussions
- 未婚化の背景
- 未婚という選択肢
- 未婚率の上昇要因
Conversation Starters
"「最近、ニュースで未婚率が上がっているって見たんだけど、どう思う？」"
"「このアンケート、婚姻状況を書く欄があるけど、未婚の場合はどう書けばいいの？」"
"「友達がまだ未婚なんだけど、結婚の予定はないみたい。」"
"「昔と比べて、未婚でいることを選ぶ人が増えているのかもしれないね。」"
"「将来、もし未婚のままだったら、どんな生活を送りたい？」"
Journal Prompts
Describe a fictional character who is unmarried (未婚). What are their reasons, aspirations, and daily life like?
Reflect on the concept of marriage in your own culture. How does the term 'unmarried' (未婚) fit into this context? Are there societal expectations?
Imagine you are filling out an official Japanese form. How would you indicate that you are unmarried (未婚)? Write down the relevant phrase.
Discuss the potential social and economic impacts of an increasing unmarried population (未婚化). What are some challenges and opportunities?
How has the perception of being unmarried (未婚) changed over time, both in Japan and in your own country? Consider societal pressures and personal choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe main difference lies in specificity and formality. 未婚 (mikon) specifically means 'never married' and is typically used in formal contexts like official documents, surveys, and academic discussions. 独身 (dokushin) is a more general term for 'single' and is widely used in both formal and informal situations. While 独身 often means 'never married', it can sometimes be used more broadly to include divorced or widowed individuals depending on the context. For precise communication about never having been married, 未婚 is the preferred term.
Yes, it can be used in casual conversation, but it might sound a bit formal or stiff compared to 独身 (dokushin) or the loanword シングル (shinguru). If you are talking with close friends about personal relationships, 独身 or シングル might be more natural. However, if you want to be very clear that someone has never married, 未婚 is still understood and correct, just less common in very casual chat.
No, 未婚 is a neutral and objective term. It simply describes a person's marital status as never having been married. It does not carry any inherent judgment or negative connotation. However, in some societal contexts, there might be societal pressures or expectations related to marriage, but the word itself is factual.
The most direct way to refer to an 'unmarried person' is by using the compound word 未婚者 (mikonsha). For example, 「未婚者が増加しています。」 (Mikonsha ga zōka shite imasu.) - Unmarried people are increasing. You can also describe someone as being 未婚 (mikon) as a status, such as 「彼は未婚です。」 (Kare wa mikon desu.) - He is unmarried.
In official documents, surveys, and forms, 未婚 is used as one of the standard options for marital status. It is typically listed alongside 既婚 (kikon - married), 死別 (shibetsu - widowed), and 離別 (ribetsu - divorced). When filling out such documents, if you have never been married, you would select or write 未婚.
The term 未婚 itself does not imply a choice or a lack of opportunity. It is a purely descriptive term for the state of never having been married. The reasons behind someone being unmarried can be varied – it could be by choice, due to circumstances, or simply because they haven't married yet. The word itself does not convey these reasons.
The direct antonym of 未婚 is 既婚 (kikon), meaning 'married'. Other related marital statuses that are not 未婚 include 死別 (shibetsu - widowed) and 離別 (ribetsu - divorced).
No, 未婚 is used to describe the marital status of adults. Children are naturally unmarried, so there is no need to use this term for them. It specifically refers to the status of never having entered into marriage, which is an adult legal and social institution.
The pronunciation is みこん (mikon). The stress is on the second syllable: mi-KON. In the UK, it's pronounced /mɪkɒn/, and in the US, it's /mɪˈkoʊn/.
A common mistake is confusing it with 独身 (dokushin) or using it too casually. While 独身 also means 'single', 未婚 is more precise for 'never married' and is formal. Using 未婚 in very informal settings might sound stiff. Also, ensure you use it for people who have genuinely never married, not those who are divorced or widowed.
Test Yourself 88 questions
Write a sentence describing a person who is 30 years old and has never been married.
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Write a sentence stating that the unmarried rate is increasing.
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Write a sentence explaining that some people choose to remain unmarried to focus on their careers.
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Write a sentence about support systems for children with unmarried parents.
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Write a sentence about the societal issue of increasing unmarried individuals.
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Write a sentence using the word 未婚者 (mikonsha).
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Write a sentence about the reasons people choose to remain unmarried.
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Write a sentence asking if someone is unmarried.
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Write a sentence about the increasing number of unmarried people in society.
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Write a sentence about the legal definition of 'unmarried' being important.
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Write a sentence about an unmarried person.
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Write a sentence about a survey on unmarried people.
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Summary
未婚 (mikon) is the precise Japanese term for 'unmarried,' specifically meaning someone who has never been married. It is commonly used in formal contexts like official forms, surveys, and demographic data, contrasting with other marital statuses like married (既婚 - kikon), widowed (死別 - shibetsu), or divorced (離別 - ribetsu). While 独身 (dokushin) also means 'single,' 未婚 offers greater specificity.
- Unmarried (never married).
- Formal term for never married.
- Used in official documents and statistics.
- Distinct from divorced or widowed.
Master the Pronunciation
Pay close attention to the pronunciation of 未婚 (mikon). The 'mi' sound is short, like in 'me', and 'kon' rhymes with 'gone'. The stress falls on the second syllable: mi-KON. Practicing this will make your speech clearer and more natural.
Understand the Context
未婚 is a formal term. You'll see it most often on official documents, surveys, and in news reports discussing demographics. While understood in casual talk, 独身 or シングル are often more natural for everyday conversations about personal relationships.
Distinguish from 独身
Remember that 未婚 specifically means 'never married'. 独身 is broader and can sometimes include divorced or widowed individuals, though it most commonly means never married. For precise communication, especially in formal settings, 未婚 is the correct choice for someone who has never married.
Use in Sentences
Practice using 未婚 in sentences. Common patterns include 'Subject + は/が + 未婚 + です' (e.g., 私は未婚です - I am unmarried) or '未婚の + Noun' (e.g., 未婚の女性 - unmarried woman). Also, learn related terms like 未婚者 (unmarried person) and 未婚率 (unmarried rate).
Example
彼女はまだ未婚です。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More family words
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.
