年上のいとこ
toshiue no itoko
The English phrase "older cousin" is translated into Japanese as 年上のいとこ (toshiue no itoko).
年上のいとこ is used to describe the relative age of a cousin. It is a descriptive phrase rather than a specific title or name you would use when addressing the person directly.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 年上 (toshiue), meaning "older in years", the particle の (no), meaning "of" and いとこ (itoko), meaning "cousin".
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the particle の (no) to link the adjective-like noun 年上 (toshiue) to the noun いとこ (itoko).
How do you pronounce it?
toshiue no itoko
Did you know?
- While いとこ is the general term for 'cousin', the kanji 従 literally means 'follow' or 'subordinate', reflecting the traditional Confucian hierarchy of family lineages.
- While 年上のいとこ is a correct description, many Japanese speakers will naturally refer to an older cousin using sibling terms like お兄さん (oniisan) for a male or お姉さん (oneesan) for a female.
- In Japan, the concept of 'older' 年上 carries a social weight of seniority that often requires using more polite language when speaking to that person, regardless of the family bond.
Examples in context
- 彼は私の年上のいとこです。Kare wa watashi no toshiue no itoko desu.He is my older cousin.
- 年上のいとこに相談しました。Toshiue no itoko ni soudan shimashita.I consulted my older cousin.
- 年上のいとこはとても優しいです。Toshiue no itoko wa totemo yasashii desu.My older cousin is very kind.
Example conversation
Himari and Kenta are talking about their families.
- 陽葵 Himari年上のいとこと一緒に買い物に行きますか？toshiue no itoko to issho ni kaimono ni ikimasu ka?Are you going shopping with your older cousin?
- 健太 Kentaはい、今日は彼が案内してくれます。hai, kyou wa kare ga annai shite kuremasu.Yes, he is showing me around today.
- 陽葵 Himariいいですね。仲が良いんですね。ii desu ne. naka ga yoi n desu ne.That's nice. You get along well.
- 健太 Kentaええ、とても優しい人です。ee, totemo yasashii hito desu.Yeah, he is a very kind person.
