If you’re interested in Japanese culture and language, you may be curious about how to say “doll” in Japanese. In this section, we will explore different ways to say “doll” in Japanese and provide translations and vocabulary related to dolls in the Japanese language.
It’s important to note that the Japanese language has different words for different types of dolls, and the word used may depend on the context. So let’s dive into the different terms used for “doll” in Japanese.
To say “doll” in Japanese, the word is “ningyō” (人形). This term refers to a humanoid figure or a doll, and it is commonly used to describe dolls of various types, including traditional Japanese dolls, stuffed animals, and even action figures.
Now that you have a foundation for the Japanese word for “doll” and related vocabulary, let’s explore different types of dolls in Japanese culture in the next section.
Understanding the Japanese Word for Doll
If you are interested in Japanese dolls, it is essential to understand the Japanese word for “doll.” In Japanese, the word for doll is “ningyō” (人形). The term “ningyō” refers to a humanoid figure or a doll. This word is commonly used to describe dolls of various types, including traditional Japanese dolls, stuffed animals, and even action figures.
| Japanese word for doll | Doll translation in Japanese | Japanese term for doll | Doll meaning in Japanese |
|---|---|---|---|
| 人形 | ningyō | 人形 | a humanoid figure or a doll |
Knowing the Japanese word for “doll” will help you identify and communicate about Japanese dolls more precisely.
Different Types of Dolls in Japanese Culture
Japanese culture has a deep appreciation for dolls and their significance in different aspects of life. Here are some common types of dolls found in Japanese culture:
| Type of Doll | Description |
|---|---|
| Hina Dolls | These dolls are a symbol of Girl’s Day (Hinamatsuri) celebrated on March 3rd. They represent the Emperor, Empress, and their court dressed in traditional clothing. The dolls are displayed on a tiered platform covered in red cloth. |
| Kokeshi Dolls | Kokeshi dolls are traditional wooden dolls that originated in northern Japan. They have a simple shape and design, typically with a round head and cylindrical body. These dolls were originally made by farmers as souvenirs for visitors to hot springs. |
| Daruma Dolls | These dolls are modeled after Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. They are considered a symbol of perseverance and good luck. The dolls have no arms or legs and are typically red with a white beard. |
| Gofun Dolls | These dolls are made from a traditional Japanese material known as gofun, which is a mixture of ground oyster shells and glue. They are often used in traditional Japanese puppet theatre (Bunraku) and represent historic figures and characters. |
These are just a few examples of the many types of dolls found in Japanese culture. Each doll has its unique history and significance, and they continue to be an important aspect of traditional Japanese arts and crafts.
Useful Phrases Related to Dolls in Japanese
If you’re looking to expand your Japanese vocabulary related to dolls, here are some useful phrases:
| Phrase | Translation |
|---|---|
| お人形 (o-ningyō) | “O” is a respectful prefix, so the term “o-ningyō” can be used to show respect or admiration for a doll. This phrase translates to “doll” or “puppet.” |
| 宮廷人形 (kyūtei-ningyō) | This phrase means “court doll,” referring to traditional dolls that were owned and played with by members of the royal court in Japan. |
| 着せ替え人形 (kisekae-ningyō) | The term “kisekae” means “changing clothes,” so “kisekae-ningyō” refers to dolls that can be dressed in different outfits. |
| 浮世人形 (ukiyoe-ningyō) | “Ukiyoe” refers to a style of art, and “ukiyoe-ningyō” are dolls that are designed to resemble the characters in ukiyoe prints. |
| 和人形 (wadai-ningyō) | “Wadai” means “Japanese-style,” so “wadai-ningyō” refers to traditional Japanese dolls that are typically made of wood and cloth. |
Learning these phrases and using them in conversation can help you connect with Japanese speakers and deepen your appreciation for Japanese culture and dolls.
Impress Your Japanese Friends with Doll Knowledge
Congratulations! You now know how to say “doll” in Japanese and have gained knowledge about different types of dolls. This newfound knowledge can help you impress your Japanese friends by engaging in conversations about dolls and Japanese culture.
Next time you visit Japan, try using some of these phrases:
How to say doll in Japanese
If you want to ask someone about dolls, you can ask “Ningyō wa nan desu ka?” This translates to “What is a doll?”
Japanese word for doll
The Japanese word for doll is “ningyō.” You can use this term to describe various types of dolls.
Doll translation in Japanese
The word for “doll” in Japanese is “ningyō.” Keep this in mind when you want to translate the word “doll” into Japanese.
Doll in Japanese language
To refer to a doll in the Japanese language, use the word “ningyō.”
How do you say doll in Japanese?
To say “doll” in Japanese, simply say “ningyō.”
Doll word in Japanese
The word for “doll” in Japanese is “ningyō.”
Japanese Doll vocabulary
Remember, “ningyō” can refer to various types of dolls, including traditional Japanese dolls, stuffed animals, and even action figures.
By using these terms and showing your appreciation for Japanese culture, you can foster deeper connections with your Japanese friends and gain a greater appreciation for different traditions.
FAQ
Q: How do you say “doll” in Japanese?
A: The word for doll in Japanese is “ningyō” (人形).
Q: What does the term “ningyō” refer to?
A: “Ningyō” refers to a humanoid figure or a doll, including traditional Japanese dolls, stuffed animals, and action figures.
Q: What are some common types of dolls in Japanese culture?
A: Japanese culture has various types of dolls, including kokeshi dolls, hina dolls, daruma dolls, and kimekomi dolls.
Q: Can you provide some useful phrases and vocabulary related to dolls in Japanese?
A: Here are some useful phrases and vocabulary related to dolls in the Japanese language:
– Kokeshi (こけし): Traditional wooden dolls from northern Japan.
– Hina-ningyō (ひなにんぎょう): Dolls displayed during Girls’ Day (Hinamatsuri) to pray for the health and happiness of girls.
– Daruma (だるま): Dolls representing Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk, and symbolizing perseverance and luck.
Q: How can I impress my Japanese friends with doll knowledge?
A: By learning how to say “doll” in Japanese and gaining knowledge about different types of dolls, you can engage in conversations about dolls and Japanese culture, fostering deeper connections and appreciation for different traditions.