体格
In Japanese, physique is 体格.
体格 is used to denote the stature, build or physique of a person. You may also see the phrase 体格が良い used to describe someone who is large-framed, sturdy or well-built.
Meaning: physical structure of a person (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the kanji 体 (body) and 格 (frame/status/standard).
Which one should you use?
While 体格 refers to the skeletal build and physical size, 体型 refers more to the outward shape or silhouette of the body, such as a person's figure or body type. Additionally, 体形 specifically describes the shape or form of a person's body.
Did you know?
- The kanji 格 in 体格 originally referred to a bamboo rack. This historical meaning evolved into the idea of a 'frame' or 'structure' that supports something.
- In Japanese, the concept of 'physique' (体格) is often treated as an innate, unchangeable quality, whereas 'body shape' (体型) is seen as something one can change through diet.
- While 体格 describes a person's frame, the word 格 is also used in 合格 to mean passing an exam. Both use the idea of meeting a certain 'standard' or 'grade'.
Examples in context
- 彼の身体はとても引き締まっている。(かれのしんたいはとてもひきしまっている。)His physique is very well-toned.
- 彼の体格はバスケットボール選手にふさわしい。(かれのたいかくはばすけっとぼーるせんしゅにふさわしい。)His build is suitable for a basketball player.
- 彼のボディがすごい！(かれのぼでぃがすごい！)His physique is amazing!
- 彼女の体つきに憧れる。(かのじょのからだつきにあこがれる。)I admire her figure (physique).
- 彼はとても体格がいいです。Kare wa totemo taikaku ga ii desu.He has a very good physique.
- あの選手は体格が大きいです。Ano senshu wa taikaku ga ookii desu.That athlete has a large physique.
- 子供の頃は体格が小さかった。Kodomo no koro wa taikaku ga chiisakatta.I had a small physique when I was a child.
Example conversation
Daito and Himari are talking about a basketball player.
- 大翔 Hirotoあの選手は本当に体格が大きいね。Ano senshu wa hontō ni taikaku ga ōkii ne.That player really has a large physique.
- 陽葵 Himariそうだね。とても強そうに見えるよ。Sō da ne. Totemo tsuyosō ni mieru yo.You're right. He looks very strong.
- 大翔 Hiroto体格がいいと有利だよね。Taikaku ga ii to yūri da yo ne.It's an advantage to have a good physique.
- 陽葵 Himari確かに。羨ましいくらいだわ。Tashika ni. Urayamashii kurai da wa.True. I'm almost jealous.
