年配者
nenpaisha
The English phrase "older person" is translated into Japanese as 年配者 (nenpaisha).
年配者 is a general term used to describe a person who is advanced in age. While it describes the concept of an older person, other terms are often preferred depending on the specific context, such as using Rōjin (老人) to refer to an elderly person generally.
Which one should you use?
年配者 is a general term, whereas 高齢者 (kōreisha) is a more formal, clinical or administrative term typically used in the context of statistics or social welfare.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For elderly women, the terms ばあさん or おばあさん are used informally. ばあさん is a casual term, while おばあさん adds a sense of warmth and familiarity. Similarly, おじいさん and おばあさん are commonly used within families to address grandparents or as a generic way to refer to older individuals.
How do you pronounce it?
nenpaisha
Did you know?
- In Japan, the phrase 敬老の日 (Keirō no Hi) refers to a national holiday specifically dedicated to honoring 'older persons' and celebrating their longevity.
- Japanese has a concept called 敬語 (keigo), which requires using entirely different verb endings and vocabulary when speaking to an 年配者 to show social respect.
- In Japan, the term おばあさん (obāsan) is often used as a polite way to address a complete stranger who is an older woman, even if you have no relation to her. This is a common way to show respect and warmth in daily social interactions.
Examples in context
- 年配者への配慮が必要です。Nenpaisha e no hairyo ga hitsuyo desu.Consideration for older people is necessary.
- この施設は年配者に人気があります。Kono shisetsu wa nenpaisha ni ninki ga arimasu.This facility is popular with older people.
- 年配者の意見を尊重しましょう。Nenpaisha no iken o soncho shimasho.Let's respect the opinions of older people.
Example conversation
Daigaki and Misaki are discussing a new project for the community center.
- 大翔 Hirotoこのイベントは年配者向けですか？Kono ibento wa nenpaisha muke desu ka?Is this event for older people?
- 美咲 Misakiはい、年配者に楽しんでほしいです。Hai, nenpaisha ni tanoshinde hoshii desu.Yes, I want older people to enjoy it.
- 大翔 Hirotoいいアイデアですね。Ii aidea desu ne.That is a great idea.
- 美咲 Misaki準備を始めましょう。Junbi o hajimemashou.Let's start the preparations.
