キンポウゲ
kinpōge
The English word 'buttercup' is translated into Japanese as キンポウゲ (kinpōge).
キンポウゲ refers to the herb of the genus Ranunculus.
Meaning: herb of the genus Ranunculus (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
kinpōge
Did you know?
- In Japanese folklore, certain species of キンポウゲ were historically associated with the concept of 'healing' and 'poison' simultaneously due to their toxicity if touched or eaten.
- While 'buttercup' is a common term of endearment in English, the word キンポウゲ is never used as a nickname or a romantic term in Japanese.
- Because the plant's sap can cause skin irritation, Japanese gardening guides often include warnings when discussing キンポウゲ, treating it more as a hazard than a decorative flower.
Examples in context
- このキンポウゲはとても綺麗ですね。kono kinpouge wa totemo kirei desu ne.This buttercup is very beautiful, isn't it?
- キンポウゲの科の植物を探しています。kinpouge no ka no shokubutsu o sagashite imasu.I am looking for plants in the buttercup family.
Example conversation
Misaki and Kenta are walking through a meadow.
- 美咲 Misaki健太くん、見て！あそこにキンポウゲがあるよ。Kenta-kun, mite! Asoko ni kinpouge ga aru yo.Kenta, look! There is a buttercup over there.
- 健太 Kenta本当だ。とても綺麗な黄色だね。Hontou da. Totemo kireina kiiro da ne.You're right. It's a very beautiful yellow.
- 美咲 Misaki触らないほうがいいみたいだよ。Sawaranai hou ga ii mitai da yo.It seems like it's better not to touch it.
- 健太 Kentaわかった。遠くから眺めよう。Wakatta. Tooku kara nagameyou.I understand. Let's just look at it from a distance.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry キンポウゲ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
