性別
性別 30秒了解
- 性別 (seibetsu) is the standard Japanese word for 'gender' or 'sex', used in formal, medical, and administrative contexts across Japan.
- It consists of two kanji: 性 (nature/sex) and 別 (distinction), literally meaning the distinction of sex between male and female.
- Commonly found on forms alongside options for 男 (male) and 女 (female), and used for both humans and animals (オス/メス).
- While 'ジェンダー' is used for social discussions, '性別' remains the primary term for official identification and biological classification.
The Japanese word 性別 (せいべつ - seibetsu) is the primary term used to denote 'gender' or 'sex'. It is a compound noun formed by two distinct kanji characters: 性 (sei), meaning 'nature', 'quality', or 'sex', and 別 (betsu), meaning 'distinction', 'difference', or 'separation'. Together, they literally translate to the 'distinction of sex'. In the Japanese linguistic landscape, this word functions as a comprehensive label for the biological and social categories of male and female. While modern Japanese has increasingly adopted the loanword ジェンダー (jendā) to specifically discuss social constructs and gender identity, 性別 remains the standard, formal term for biological sex and the general classification of gender in administrative, medical, and everyday contexts.
- Etymological Nuance
- The kanji 性 (nature/sex) combined with 別 (separation) highlights the historical focus on the binary division of living beings based on reproductive roles. In traditional contexts, this was a clear-cut biological marker.
- Administrative Usage
- You will encounter this word on almost every official document in Japan, from residency applications to gym memberships. It is the header for the section where you select 'male' (男) or 'female' (女).
アンケートの最後に、あなたの性別を記入してください。
(At the end of the survey, please fill in your gender.)
In contemporary Japan, the usage of 性別 is evolving. While it traditionally referred to the binary of male and female, societal shifts are leading to more inclusive options on forms, such as 'Other' or 'No answer'. However, the word itself remains the umbrella term. It is used in scientific discussions (biological sex), demographic statistics (gender distribution), and social justice conversations (gender equality). Understanding this word is crucial because it bridges the gap between biological reality and social identification in the Japanese consciousness. It is not just a box to check; it is a fundamental category of personhood in the Japanese language system.
Furthermore, 性別 is frequently used in compound phrases. For instance, 性別違和 (seibetsu iwa) refers to gender dysphoria, and 性別役割 (seibetsu yakuwari) refers to gender roles. These compounds demonstrate how the word serves as a root for complex sociological and psychological concepts. For a learner at the A2 level, recognizing this word on a form is a vital survival skill. As you progress to higher levels, you will use it to discuss societal issues, such as the gender pay gap or representation in government. The word is ubiquitous, appearing in news broadcasts, textbooks, and medical charts alike.
- Scientific Context
- In biology, 性別 is used to distinguish between male and female organisms across all species, not just humans.
この動物の性別を判断するのは難しい。
(It is difficult to determine the sex of this animal.)
To conclude, 性別 is a foundational noun. It carries the weight of biological classification and the nuance of social identification. Whether you are at a doctor's office in Tokyo or reading a sociological study on Japanese youth, this word will be your primary reference point for the concept of gender and sex. Its stable presence in the language reflects its importance in both the physical and social sciences in Japan.
Using 性別 (seibetsu) correctly requires an understanding of Japanese sentence structure and common collocations. As a noun, it typically functions as the subject or object of a sentence, often followed by particles like は (wa), を (o), or に (ni). One of the most common patterns is 性別を問わず (seibetsu o towazu), which means 'regardless of gender'. This is frequently seen in job advertisements and event invitations to emphasize inclusivity.
- Pattern: Identification
- [Subject] + の + 性別 + は + [Category] + です。
Example: 私の猫の性別はメスです。 (My cat's sex is female.) - Pattern: Inclusivity
- 性別を問わず、どなたでも参加できます。
(Anyone can participate, regardless of gender.)
この仕事は性別に関係なく応募可能です。
(You can apply for this job regardless of gender.)
When discussing people, 性別 is more formal than simply asking if someone is a man or a woman. In a clinical or administrative setting, a professional might ask, 「性別を教えていただけますか?」 (Could you tell me your gender?). In contrast, in a casual setting, people rarely use 性別; they would instead use words like 男 (otoko) or 女 (onna) directly. This distinction in register is vital for learners to grasp. Using 性別 in a casual conversation about a friend's new baby might sound a bit like a police report, whereas using it in a research paper is perfectly appropriate.
Another important usage involves the verb 判定する (hantei suru), meaning 'to determine' or 'to judge'. In prenatal care, parents might ask, 「赤ちゃんの性別はいつわかりますか?」 (When will the baby's gender be known?). Here, 性別 acts as the topic of the sentence. In academic writing, you might see 性別による違い (seibetsu ni yoru chigai), meaning 'differences based on gender'. This structure is used to analyze data or social trends. The versatility of the word allows it to move from the simple identification of a cat to the complex analysis of social demographics.
- Pattern: Difference/Comparison
- 性別によって、好みが分かれることがあります。
(Preferences may differ depending on gender.)
応募書類には性別を記載する欄があります。
(There is a column to enter gender on the application documents.)
Finally, consider the phrase 性別適合手術 (seibetsu tekigō shujutsu), which refers to gender-affirming surgery. This illustrates how 性別 is used in highly specific medical and legal terminology. Even in these specialized contexts, the core word remains the same. By mastering the basic patterns—identification, inclusivity, and comparison—you can navigate a wide range of Japanese linguistic situations with confidence. Remember that 性別 is your go-to word for 'the category of gender' rather than the individuals themselves.
In Japan, you will encounter the word 性別 (seibetsu) in several key environments. The most frequent is likely the 役所 (yakusho - government office). Whether you are registering your address (jūminhyō) or applying for health insurance, 性別 is a mandatory field. The clerk might point to the form and say, 「こちらに性別をご記入ください」 (Please write your gender here). This is a very standard, polite interaction that every resident in Japan experiences.
- Medical Settings
- At hospitals and clinics, your medical history is categorized by 性別. This is important for diagnosis and treatment plans. You will see it on your patient ID card (shinsatsuken).
- Workplace & Recruitment
- Job advertisements often state '性別不問' (seibetsu fumon), which means gender is not a factor in hiring. This is a legal requirement for many positions to ensure equal opportunity.
病院の受付で「性別」の欄に丸をつけてくださいと言われました。
(At the hospital reception, I was told to circle the 'gender' column.)
In the media, 性別 appears constantly in news reports discussing demographics. If the NHK (Japan's public broadcaster) reports on census results, they will discuss the population breakdown by 年齢 (nenrei - age) and 性別 (seibetsu). You will also hear it in discussions about social issues. For example, debates about 'gender equality' (性別平等の実現 - seibetsu byōdō no jitsugen) are common in political discourse. In these contexts, the word sounds academic and objective, providing a clear category for analysis.
Another surprising place you might hear it is at a ペットショップ (pet shop) or an animal shelter. When choosing a pet, the staff will explain the animal's 性別 and how it might affect their temperament or needs. For example, 「この子猫の性別はまだわかりません」 (We don't know this kitten's sex yet). Furthermore, in the world of online gaming or social media, when creating an avatar, the first step is often choosing your 性別. The term is so ubiquitous that it transcends the human experience and applies to any context where a male/female distinction is made.
- Demographic Surveys
- Marketing companies use 性別 to segment their audience. You will see it in customer satisfaction surveys after buying something online.
このアンケートは、性別や年齢を統計的に分析するために使用されます。
(This survey is used to statistically analyze gender and age.)
Lastly, in literature and film, 性別 might be used when a character's identity is a plot point. A mystery novel might mention that the 「犯人の性別は不明だ」 (The culprit's gender is unknown). In these cases, the word adds a layer of formal investigation or clinical observation to the narrative. Whether in the mundane act of filling out a form or the dramatic tension of a mystery, 性別 is the essential term for categorization in Japanese society.
One of the most common mistakes English speakers make when using 性別 (seibetsu) is confusing it with the word for 'sexuality' or 'sexual orientation'. In English, 'sex' and 'gender' are often used interchangeably, but 'sexuality' is a different concept entirely. In Japanese, 'sexual orientation' is 性的指向 (seiteki shikō). Using 性別 to ask about someone's orientation is incorrect and could lead to significant confusion or unintended offense. 性別 refers strictly to the category of being male, female, or another gender identity, not who someone is attracted to.
- Mistake: Over-Formality
- Using 性別 in casual conversation. Instead of saying 'あなたの性別は何ですか?' (What is your gender?), which sounds like an interrogation, simply ask '男性ですか、女性ですか?' or observe the context.
- Mistake: Confusing with 'Sexuality'
- Do not use 性別 when you mean 'sexual orientation' (性的指向). 性別 is about identity/classification; 性的指向 is about attraction.
❌ 彼の性別はゲイです。
✅ 彼の性的指向はゲイです。
(Incorrect: His gender is gay. / Correct: His sexual orientation is gay.)
Another nuance that learners often miss is the difference between 性別 and 性 (sei). While 性別 is the noun for the 'category' or 'distinction', 性 is often used as a prefix or suffix in more technical or abstract terms. For example, 男性 (dansei) and 女性 (josei) are the words for 'male' and 'female' people. You cannot say 「私は性別です」 to mean 'I am a gender'. You must say 「私の性別は男性です」 (My gender is male) or simply 「私は男性です」 (I am a man). Understanding that 性別 is the *label* for the category is the key to using it correctly.
Furthermore, there's a grammatical trap with the particle の (no). English speakers might try to translate 'gender differences' as 性別の違い (seibetsu no chigai). While not entirely wrong, the more natural and common phrase in academic or formal Japanese is 性差 (seisa) or 性別による違い (seibetsu ni yoru chigai). The latter specifically means 'differences depending on gender'. Being aware of these natural collocations will help you sound more like a native speaker and less like a translation machine.
- Mistake: Incorrect Animal Terms
- Using '男の犬' (male dog) instead of 'オスの犬'. While understandable, it sounds very childish or anthropomorphic.
❌ この猫の性別は男です。
✅ この猫の性別はオスです。
(Incorrect: This cat's sex is man. / Correct: This cat's sex is male.)
Finally, be careful with the word ジェンダー (jendā). While it is becoming more common, it is often used in the context of 'gender studies' or 'gender identity' specifically. If you are just filling out a form at a hospital, stick to 性別. Using the katakana loanword in a traditional medical context might make you sound like you are trying to make a sociological point rather than just providing your information. Context is everything in Japanese!
In Japanese, several words orbit the concept of 性別 (seibetsu), each with its own specific register and nuance. Understanding these alternatives will allow you to choose the most appropriate term for any given situation. The most prominent alternative is ジェンダー (jendā), which, as mentioned previously, is a loanword from English. While 性別 covers both biological sex and social gender, ジェンダー is almost exclusively used to discuss social roles, identity, and the cultural expectations associated with being male or female.
- 性別 (Seibetsu) vs. ジェンダー (Jendā)
- 性別 is the standard, objective term for biological and administrative classification. ジェンダー is used in sociological contexts, gender identity discussions, and activism (e.g., ジェンダー平等 - gender equality).
- 性差 (Seisa)
- Literally 'sex difference'. This is a more technical and academic term used in research to describe biological or psychological differences between sexes.
最近の社会では、ジェンダーの多様性が尊重されています。
(In recent society, gender diversity is respected.)
Another related term is 男女 (danjo), which literally means 'men and women'. This is often used as a prefix to describe things that involve both sexes. For example, 男女共学 (danjo kyōgaku) means co-education, and 男女雇用機会均等法 (danjo koyō kikai kintō hō) is the Equal Employment Opportunity Act. While 性別 is the abstract category, 男女 is the concrete grouping of the people themselves. If you want to say 'both genders', 男女両方 (danjo ryōhō) is a very natural way to express it in many contexts.
For more specific medical or biological contexts, you might encounter 性 (sei) by itself. It appears in terms like 性染色体 (sei senshokutai - sex chromosome) or 性ホルモン (sei horumon - sex hormone). In these cases, 性 functions as a technical descriptor. Additionally, 性同一性 (sei dōitusei) is the term for 'gender identity'. This is a key term in legal and psychological discussions regarding transgender individuals. As a learner, you don't need to use these technical terms every day, but recognizing the root 性 will help you decode their meanings.
- 性別 (Seibetsu) vs. 男女 (Danjo)
- Use 性別 for the category on a form. Use 男女 when talking about the actual groups of men and women (e.g., 'men and women of all ages').
男女の賃金格差を解消する必要があります。
(It is necessary to close the wage gap between men and women.)
In summary, while 性別 is the most versatile and common word for 'gender/sex', it exists within a rich ecosystem of terms. Use ジェンダー for social discussions, 性差 for technical differences, 男女 for groups of people, and 性 for biological specifics. Mastering these distinctions will give you a sophisticated command of how gender is discussed and categorized in the Japanese language.
How Formal Is It?
趣味小知识
The kanji for 性 contains the 'heart' radical (忄) and 'birth/life' (生), suggesting that gender was seen as something born in the heart or part of one's fundamental life essence.
发音指南
- Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'su'. Make sure to include the 't' sound.
- Elongating the 'sei' too much. It is a long vowel, but should be crisp.
- Pronouncing 'betsu' like 'bets'. The 'u' is silent but the 'ts' needs the mouth shape of 'u'.
- Stress on the wrong syllable. Japanese usually has pitch accent rather than stress.
- Misreading the kanji as 性分 (shōbun).
难度评级
The kanji are common and learned early (N4 level), though the word is A2.
性 and 別 are slightly complex to write perfectly for beginners.
Pronunciation is straightforward as long as 'tsu' is clear.
Distinct sound, easy to pick out in formal contexts.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
〜を問わず (o towazu)
性別を問わず、誰でも応募できます。
〜に関係なく (ni kankeinaku)
性別に関係なく、同じ給料です。
〜によって (ni yotte) - Depending on
性別によって、考え方が異なります。
〜という (called/the category of)
性別というカテゴリー。
〜としての (as a...)
一人の人間としての性別。
按水平分级的例句
性別を教えてください。
Please tell me your gender.
性別 (gender) + を (object particle) + 教えてください (please tell me).
ここに性別を書きます。
Write your gender here.
ここ (here) + に (location particle) + 性別 (gender) + を (object particle) + 書きます (write).
あなたの性別はどちらですか?
Which is your gender?
どちら (which) is a polite way to ask for a choice.
性別の欄に丸をしてください。
Please circle the gender column.
欄 (ran) means column or section.
性別は「男」です。
Gender is 'Male'.
A simple A is B sentence structure.
性別は「女」です。
Gender is 'Female'.
A simple A is B sentence structure.
この犬の性別は何ですか?
What is this dog's sex?
何 (nani) is used to ask 'what'.
性別を選んでください。
Please select a gender.
選んでください (erande kudasai) means 'please choose'.
性別に関係なく、誰でも参加できます。
Anyone can participate, regardless of gender.
関係なく (kankeinaku) means 'without relation' or 'regardless'.
赤ちゃんの性別はまだわかりません。
We don't know the baby's gender yet.
わかりません (wakarimasen) means 'don't know'.
アンケートで性別を答えました。
I answered the gender question in the survey.
答えました (kotaemashita) is the past tense of 'to answer'.
この猫の性別はメスです。
This cat's sex is female.
Use メス (mesu) for female animals.
性別によって服のサイズが違います。
Clothing sizes differ depending on gender.
によって (ni yotte) means 'depending on'.
身分証明書に性別が載っています。
Gender is listed on the ID card.
載っています (notte imasu) means 'is listed' or 'is on'.
性別を間違えて記入しました。
I filled in the wrong gender.
間違えて (machiagete) means 'by mistake'.
性別の欄が空欄になっています。
The gender column is blank.
空欄 (kūran) means blank space.
性別を問わず、優秀な人材を募集しています。
We are recruiting talented people regardless of gender.
を問わず (o towazu) is a formal way to say 'regardless of'.
性別による役割分担について話し合いました。
We discussed the division of roles based on gender.
役割分担 (yakuwari buntan) means division of labor/roles.
最近は性別を記載しない書類も増えています。
Recently, documents that do not require gender are increasing.
記載しない (kisai shinai) means 'not to mention/list'.
性別適合手術を受けることを決心しました。
I decided to undergo gender-affirming surgery.
決心しました (kesshin shimashita) means 'decided/resolved'.
性別を判断するための基準は何ですか?
What are the criteria for determining gender?
判断する (hantei suru) means 'to judge' or 'to determine'.
この映画は性別の壁を越えた友情を描いています。
This movie depicts a friendship that transcends gender boundaries.
壁を越えた (kabe o koeta) means 'crossed/transcended a wall'.
性別平等の社会を目指すべきです。
We should aim for a society with gender equality.
目指すべきです (mezashu beki desu) means 'should aim for'.
性別によって受ける教育に差があってはなりません。
There should be no difference in education based on gender.
あってはなりません (atte wa narimasen) means 'must not be'.
性別違和を抱える人々への理解を深める必要があります。
It is necessary to deepen understanding for people with gender dysphoria.
抱える (kakaeru) here means 'to deal with' or 'to have'.
法律上の性別を変更するための手続きは複雑です。
The procedure for changing one's legal gender is complex.
法律上 (hōritsujō) means 'legally' or 'in the eyes of the law'.
性別役割の固定観念を打破することが求められています。
There is a demand to break down gender role stereotypes.
固定観念 (kotei kannen) means 'stereotype' or 'fixed idea'.
統計データによると、性別による賃金格差は依然として存在します。
According to statistical data, the gender pay gap still exists.
依然として (izen to shite) means 'still' or 'as before'.
性別を公表せずに活動しているアーティストもいます。
There are also artists who work without disclosing their gender.
公表せずに (kōhyō sezu ni) means 'without making public'.
生物学的な性別と、本人の自認する性別が一致しない場合があります。
There are cases where biological sex and self-identified gender do not match.
自認する (jinin suru) means 'to self-identify'.
性別を理由にした差別は厳格に禁止されています。
Discrimination based on gender is strictly prohibited.
を理由にした (o riyū ni shita) means 'based on the reason of'.
この研究は、脳の構造における性差を調査しています。
This study investigates sex differences in brain structure.
における (ni okeru) means 'in' or 'at' in a formal context.
性別二元論に基づいた社会システムを見直す時期に来ています。
It is time to reconsider social systems based on gender binary.
二元論 (nigenron) means 'dualism' or 'binary'.
性別変更の要件である「生殖不能要件」の違憲性が議論されています。
The unconstitutionality of the 'sterility requirement' for gender change is being debated.
違憲性 (ikensei) means 'unconstitutionality'.
性別というカテゴリーそのものが、歴史的にいかに構築されてきたかを探求する。
We will explore how the category of gender itself has been historically constructed.
いかに (ikani) means 'how' in a formal/literary way.
職場における性別を意識させない環境づくりが、イノベーションを促進します。
Creating an environment that doesn't make people conscious of gender in the workplace promotes innovation.
意識させない (ishiki sasenai) is the causative negative form.
性別に関わる多様な表現を認めることは、人権の尊重に直結します。
Recognizing diverse expressions related to gender is directly linked to respect for human rights.
直結します (chokketsu shimasu) means 'to be directly connected'.
性別による偏見を排除するためには、教育課程の抜本的な改革が必要です。
To eliminate gender-based prejudice, fundamental reform of the curriculum is necessary.
抜本的な (bapponteki na) means 'drastic' or 'fundamental'.
言語における性別表現の変遷は、社会意識の変化を如実に物語っています。
Changes in gendered expressions in language vividly tell the story of shifts in social consciousness.
如実に (nyojitsu ni) means 'vividly' or 'realistically'.
性別を問わない中立的な代名詞の導入が、一部の学術界で提案されています。
The introduction of gender-neutral pronouns has been proposed in some academic circles.
学術界 (gakujutsukai) means 'academic world'.
性別という記号が、個人のアイデンティティ形成において果たす役割は極めて重層的である。
The role that the signifier of gender plays in individual identity formation is extremely multi-layered.
重層的 (jūsōteki) means 'multi-layered' or 'stratified'.
近現代日本における性別の概念は、家父長制の維持と密接に結びついてきた。
The concept of gender in modern and contemporary Japan has been closely linked to the maintenance of the patriarchy.
家父長制 (kafuchōsei) means 'patriarchy'.
性別を越境する身体的実践が、既存のジェンダー秩序をいかに攪乱するかを論じる。
We will discuss how bodily practices that cross gender boundaries disrupt existing gender orders.
攪乱する (kakuran suru) means 'to disrupt' or 'to disturb'.
性別という分類基準の解体こそが、真の平等を実現するための前提条件であるという主張がある。
There is an argument that the deconstruction of gender as a classification criterion is the prerequisite for achieving true equality.
解体 (kaitai) means 'deconstruction' or 'dismantling'.
司法判断において性別の不均衡が是正されない現状は、民主主義の根幹を揺るがしかねない。
The current situation where gender imbalances are not corrected in judicial decisions could potentially shake the foundations of democracy.
揺るがしかねない (yurugashikanenai) means 'could potentially shake'.
性別をめぐる言説の変容を追跡することで、権力構造のダイナミズムを浮き彫りにする。
By tracking the transformation of discourse surrounding gender, we highlight the dynamism of power structures.
浮き彫りにする (ukibori ni suru) means 'to bring into relief' or 'to highlight'.
性別という属性が、労働市場における資源配分にいかに歪みをもたらしているかを実証的に検証する。
We will empirically verify how the attribute of gender brings about distortions in resource allocation in the labor market.
実証的に (jisshōteki ni) means 'empirically'.
クィア理論の視座から、性別というバイナリーが内包する排他性を批判的に考察する。
From the perspective of queer theory, we will critically examine the exclusivity inherent in the gender binary.
視座 (shiza) means 'perspective' or 'viewpoint'.
常见搭配
常用短语
— A polite way to ask for someone's gender identification.
フォームの入力で、性別はどちらですかと聞かれた。
— To reveal or disclose one's gender.
彼女はネット上で性別を明かしていない。
— Gender barriers or boundaries in society.
性別の壁を越えて活躍する。
— Gender unknown; used in police reports or for mysterious characters.
犯人の性別は現在のところ不明です。
— To falsify or hide one's true gender.
彼は性別を偽って入学した。
— Discrimination based on gender.
性別による差別は許されない。
— Transcending gender; going beyond traditional gender roles.
性別を超えた友情を築く。
— To confirm the sex/gender (often used for babies or animals).
エコー検査で赤ちゃんの性別を確認した。
— To find out the gender/sex.
いつ性別がわかりますか?
— Gender-neutral; suitable for any gender.
これは性別を選ばないデザインです。
容易混淆的词
This means sexual orientation. 性別 is gender/sex. Do not use them interchangeably.
This means one's natural temperament or character. It shares the 'sei' kanji but has a different meaning.
This means full name (family and given name). It sounds similar but refers to identity by name.
习语与表达
— To settle a dispute; to fight a decisive battle (literally 'decide male or female').
ついに二人のライバルが雌雄を決する時が来た。
Formal/Literary— A woman who is as strong or spirited as a man (spirited woman).
彼女は男勝りの仕事ぶりで有名だ。
Neutral— Weak-willed or indecisive (literally 'like a rotten woman' - offensive/archaic).
女の腐ったような態度はやめろ。
Offensive/Informal— A traditional description of a beautiful woman's movements.
彼女の立ち居振る舞いは、まさに立てば芍薬だ。
Literary— Men need courage, women need charm (traditional proverb).
昔から男は度胸、女は愛嬌と言われている。
Traditional— The only woman in a group of men.
彼女はこの部署で紅一点の存在だ。
Neutral— The only man in a group of women (less common than 紅一点).
彼は女子校の先生で、職場では黒一点だ。
Neutral— The personification of an idealized Japanese woman.
彼女の控えめな美しさは大和撫子そのものだ。
Literary/Complimentary— To improve one's reputation as a man through a brave or honorable act.
彼は今回の事件で男を上げた。
Neutral/Masculine— To work on oneself to become more beautiful or refined as a woman.
彼女は最近、女を磨くために料理教室に通っている。
Neutral/Feminine容易混淆
Both mean 'gender'.
Seibetsu is more biological and administrative. Gender is more social and academic.
性別を記入する vs ジェンダー平等を考える。
Both relate to gender differences.
Seibetsu is the category. Seisa is the actual 'difference' or 'gap' between the categories in a technical sense.
性別を選ぶ vs 性差を研究する。
Both refer to male and female.
Seibetsu is the abstract noun for the category. Danjo refers to the actual people (men and women).
性別不問 vs 男女共学。
Sei is the first character of Seibetsu.
Sei is often used as a prefix for technical biological terms or as a suffix for identity terms.
性染色体 vs 男性。
Both mean male/female.
Shiyū is very formal/biological and used mostly for animals/plants or in idioms like 'shiyū o kessuru'.
性別を判断する vs 雌雄を決する。
句型
性別は[Category]です。
性別は女です。
性別を[Verb]してください。
性別を記入してください。
性別を問わず、[Phrase]。
性別を問わず、参加できます。
性別によって、[Phrase]。
性別によって、好みが違います。
性別に関係なく、[Phrase]。
性別に関係なく、評価されます。
[Noun]における性別[Noun]。
職場における性別役割。
性別という[Concept]。
性別という社会的構築物。
性別をめぐる[Discourse]。
性別をめぐる法的な議論。
词族
名词
动词
形容词
相关
如何使用
Extremely high in formal documents and demographics; low in casual conversation.
-
Using '性別' for 'sexual orientation'.
→
性的指向 (seiteki shikō)
性別 refers to identity/category. 性的指向 refers to attraction. They are distinct concepts.
-
Using '男/女' for animal sex after '性別'.
→
オス/メス (osu/mesu)
While 'man/woman' is used for humans, 'male/female' (osu/mesu) is the correct term for animals.
-
Asking 'あなたの性別は何ですか?' to a new friend.
→
No specific question; use context or ask politely about their identity.
Asking 'What is your gender?' using the word 'seibetsu' sounds very formal and like an interrogation.
-
Writing the kanji '性' without the heart radical.
→
性 (with 忄)
The heart radical is essential for the meaning and correct recognition of the character.
-
Using '性別' as an adjective without 'no'.
→
性別の違い (seibetsu no chigai)
As a noun, it needs the particle 'no' to modify other nouns, or a phrase like 'ni yoru'.
小贴士
Use with 'No'
When identifying someone's gender, use the 'A no B wa C desu' pattern: 'Kono inu no seibetsu wa osu desu' (This dog's sex is male).
Form Etiquette
On Japanese forms, the '性別' section is usually near the top, right after your name and before your age. Be ready to see it often.
Animal Distinction
Always remember that humans are dansei/josei and animals are osu/mesu, even though the word 'seibetsu' applies to both.
Avoid Interrogation
Instead of asking 'What is your seibetsu?', try to use more natural ways to refer to people unless you are in a professional setting.
Kanji Balance
In '性', the heart radical (忄) should be slightly shorter than the '生' part to look natural.
Context Clues
If you see '性別' and '年齢' (age) together, you are definitely looking at a demographic or administrative section.
Formal Announcements
In public announcements or news, 'seibetsu' is used to provide objective information about people involved in an event.
Modern Shifts
Be aware that many modern Japanese speakers prefer 'ジェンダー' when discussing social issues to avoid the purely biological connotations of '性別'.
The 'Separate' Kanji
Focus on '別' (separate). Gender is a way to 'separate' or 'distinguish' (betsu) based on 'sex' (sei).
Job Applications
Look for '性別不問' to find inclusive workplaces where your gender will not be a barrier to employment.
记住它
记忆技巧
Think of 'SAY' (性) and 'BET' (別). I 'SAY' I 'BET' you can tell the 'gender' difference!
视觉联想
Imagine a door with two signs: one with a heart (性) and one with a dividing line (別) separating people into two rooms.
Word Web
挑战
Go to a Japanese website (like a store registration) and try to find the word 性別. See if you can identify the 男 and 女 options next to it.
词源
The word is a Sino-Japanese (Kango) compound. '性' (sei) originally meant 'innate nature' or 'disposition' in Middle Chinese, and '別' (betsu) meant 'to divide' or 'to separate'.
原始含义: Distinction of innate nature or biological division.
Japonic (Sino-Japanese vocabulary).文化背景
Be aware that asking someone's 性別 directly can be seen as intrusive unless there is a formal reason. In the LGBTQ+ community in Japan, the distinction between 'legal gender' and 'gender identity' is a major topic of discussion.
In English, we often distinguish between 'sex' (biological) and 'gender' (social). In Japanese, 性別 is used for both, though ジェンダー is filling the 'social' role more recently.
在生活中练习
真实语境
At the City Hall (役所)
- 性別を記入してください。
- 性別の欄はどこですか?
- 性別を間違えました。
- 性別は必須項目です。
At a Hospital (病院)
- 患者の性別を確認します。
- 性別による病気のリスク。
- 赤ちゃんの性別がわかりました。
- 性別欄に丸をつけてください。
Job Hunting (就職活動)
- 性別不問の求人。
- 性別による差別はありません。
- 履歴書に性別を書く。
- 性別に関わらず採用します。
Online Shopping/Surveys (ネット・アンケート)
- 性別を選択してください。
- 性別を「その他」にする。
- 性別情報の提供。
- 性別と年齢の分析。
Pets (ペット)
- この犬の性別は?
- 性別はオスです。
- 性別はメスです。
- 性別がまだわかりません。
对话开场白
"赤ちゃんの性別はもうわかりましたか? (Do you know the baby's gender yet?)"
"最近のアンケートでは、性別の欄が多様になっていますね。 (Recently, gender columns in surveys are becoming more diverse, aren't they?)"
"ペットを飼うとき、性別は気にしますか? (When getting a pet, do you care about the gender?)"
"性別に関係なく、みんなで協力しましょう。 (Let's all cooperate regardless of gender.)"
"この制服は性別を問わないデザインですね。 (This uniform is a gender-neutral design, isn't it?)"
日记主题
自分の性別について、社会からどのような期待を感じますか? (What expectations do you feel from society regarding your gender?)
性別を問わない社会を作るために、何が必要だと思いますか? (What do you think is necessary to create a gender-neutral society?)
子供の頃、性別による役割を感じたことがありますか? (Did you feel gender roles when you were a child?)
日本とあなたの国で、性別の捉え方に違いはありますか? (Are there differences in how gender is perceived between Japan and your country?)
将来、書類から性別の欄がなくなると思いますか? (Do you think the gender column will disappear from documents in the future?)
常见问题
10 个问题Yes, in Japanese, '性別' (seibetsu) is the primary term for both biological sex and social gender. However, for specific social or academic discussions about gender identity, the loanword 'ジェンダー' (jendā) is frequently used to provide more nuance.
Look for '男' (otoko) for male and '女' (onna) for female. Sometimes you might see '男性' (dansei) and '女性' (josei). Circle or check the one that matches your identification.
The term 'ノンバイナリー' (non-bainarī) is increasingly common. On some forms, you may see 'その他' (sonota - other) or '回答しない' (kaitō shinai - prefer not to say) under the '性別' section.
In a casual setting, yes, it can be very blunt. It sounds like you are treating the person as a data point. It is better to use context or ask more natural questions about their identity if appropriate.
Absolutely! It is the standard word to ask about the sex of an animal. Just remember to answer with 'オス' (male) or 'メス' (female) rather than 'man' or 'woman'.
It means 'Gender not asked' or 'Regardless of gender'. It signifies that the company hires based on ability and does not discriminate based on whether an applicant is male or female.
'性別' is who you are (gender/sex), while '性的指向' is who you are attracted to (sexual orientation). Confusing these two is a common mistake for learners.
The first kanji '性' has a heart radical on the left and 'life' on the right. The second kanji '別' has 'mouth' and 'force' (or a knife radical on the right). Practice them together as one unit.
Yes, it is a formal noun. You will rarely hear it in a casual conversation between friends, where they would just use '男' or '女' or specific names.
Common verbs include '記入する' (to fill in), '教える' (to tell), '判断する' (to determine), and '問う' (to ask/require - usually in the negative '問わない').
自我测试 200 个问题
Write 'My gender is male' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Please fill in your gender here.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Regardless of gender' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'What is the sex of this cat?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender equality' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '性別によって'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender unknown' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'The baby's gender is a girl.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender role' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'We are hiring regardless of gender.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Legal gender' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender change' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender dysphoria' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'It is difficult to determine the sex.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender column' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender-neutral design' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Biological sex' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'There is no gender discrimination.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Gender binary' in kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'To reveal one's gender' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Ask the receptionist where to write your gender.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Tell someone your gender is male (formally).
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Ask if the job is open regardless of gender.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Ask the doctor when the baby's gender will be known.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Explain that your dog is female.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say that anyone can join regardless of gender.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Ask what the gender column on the form means.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say that you made a mistake writing your gender.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Discuss the importance of gender equality.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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State that there is no gender discrimination in your office.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Ask the staff about the kitten's sex.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say that gender doesn't matter for this design.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Explain that you want to change your legal gender.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Talk about how gender roles are changing.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say that the culprit's gender is unknown.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Ask if you need to provide your gender for the survey.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say that the clothes are gender-neutral.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Mention that there are sex differences in brain structure.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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State that you are interested in gender studies.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Ask politely for someone's gender identification.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen to: 性別を記入してください。 What should you do?
Listen to: 赤ちゃんの性別は女の子です。 What is the baby's gender?
Listen to: 性別不問の求人です。 Is gender a factor in this job?
Listen to: 性別に関係なく参加できます。 Who can join?
Listen to: この猫の性別はオスです。 Is the cat male or female?
Listen to: 性別を間違えないでください。 What was the warning?
Listen to: 性別欄に丸をつけてください。 What action is required?
Listen to: 性別を問わず募集しています。 What is being done?
Listen to: 性別による差別は禁止です。 What is prohibited?
Listen to: 犯人の性別は不明です。 Do we know the culprit's gender?
Listen to: 性別違和についての相談。 What is the consultation about?
Listen to: 性別適合手術を受けました。 What happened?
Listen to: 法律上の性別を変更する。 What is being changed?
Listen to: 性別役割の固定観念。 What is being discussed?
Listen to: 性別を公表していません。 Is the gender public?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
性別 (seibetsu) is an essential noun for 'gender' or 'sex' that you will encounter on every official Japanese form. It is formal and clinical. Example: 性別を問わず (regardless of gender).
- 性別 (seibetsu) is the standard Japanese word for 'gender' or 'sex', used in formal, medical, and administrative contexts across Japan.
- It consists of two kanji: 性 (nature/sex) and 別 (distinction), literally meaning the distinction of sex between male and female.
- Commonly found on forms alongside options for 男 (male) and 女 (female), and used for both humans and animals (オス/メス).
- While 'ジェンダー' is used for social discussions, '性別' remains the primary term for official identification and biological classification.
Use with 'No'
When identifying someone's gender, use the 'A no B wa C desu' pattern: 'Kono inu no seibetsu wa osu desu' (This dog's sex is male).
Form Etiquette
On Japanese forms, the '性別' section is usually near the top, right after your name and before your age. Be ready to see it often.
Animal Distinction
Always remember that humans are dansei/josei and animals are osu/mesu, even though the word 'seibetsu' applies to both.
Avoid Interrogation
Instead of asking 'What is your seibetsu?', try to use more natural ways to refer to people unless you are in a professional setting.
例句
性別を選択してください。
相关内容
这个词在其他语言中
更多general词汇
いくつか
B1An unspecified small number of things; some, a few.
ちょっと
A2一点点;一下。用于委婉地提出请求或拒绝。
すこし
A2A little; a few.
さっき
A2刚才;刚才不久。
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
~について
A2用于表示谈论或思考的对象。
〜について
B1表示“关于”或“有关”的短语。
~ぐらい
A2日语助词,表示“大约”或“左右”。
ぐらい
A2大约有十个人。 (大约有10个人。)