兄姉
keishi
The English phrase "older sibling" is translated into Japanese as 兄姉 (keishi).
兄姉 is a formal term used to refer to one's older brother or sister.
How do you pronounce it?
keishi
When do people say it?
In rougher speech or specifically in the Tokyo area, people may use the slang term 兄貴 (aniki) to mean "bro".
Did you know?
- The term 兄貴 (aniki) is not just used for brothers, but is a common way for members of organized crime or sports teams to address a senior member they deeply respect.
- In traditional Japanese social etiquette, it is common to refer to an older sibling by their title rather than their given name, as using a name can be seen as disrespectful.
- While 兄姉 is the formal term for older siblings, Japanese has no single common word for 'siblings' that doesn't specify age or gender, often requiring the use of 兄弟 (kyōdai) which literally means 'older and younger brothers'.
Example conversation
Daisho and Yui are talking about their families.
- 大翔 Hiroto結衣さんは、兄姉がいますか。Yui-san wa, kyōkei ga imasu ka.Yui, do you have any older siblings?
- 結衣 Yuiはい、兄姉が一人います。Hai, kyōkei ga hitori imasu.Yes, I have one older sibling.
- 大翔 Hirotoそうですか。仲はいいですか。Sō desu ka. Naka wa ii desu ka.I see. Do you get along well?
- 結衣 Yuiとても仲が良いです。Totemo naka ga yoi desu.We get along very well.
