こけし
kokeshi
The English phrase "wooden doll" is translated into Japanese as こけし (kokeshi).
How do you pronounce it?
kokeshi
Did you know?
- The phrase こけし is sometimes used colloquially to describe a person who is stiff or lacks flexibility in their movements.
- Some believe こけし were originally created as spiritual talismans to protect children from illness and misfortune.
- Historically, these dolls were used as a way for woodworkers in snowy northern Japan to supplement their income during the winter months.
Examples in context
- このこけしはとてもかわいいです。kono kokeshi wa totemo kawaii desu.This wooden doll is very cute.
- 東北地方では、こけしが有名です。touhoku chihou dewa, kokeshi ga yuumei desu.Wooden dolls are famous in the Tohoku region.
- お土産にこけしを買いました。omiyage ni kokeshi o kaimashita.I bought a wooden doll as a souvenir.
Example conversation
Kenta and Misaki are looking at souvenirs in a shop.
- 健太 Kentaこのこけしはどう思う？Kono kokeshi wa dou omou?What do you think of this wooden doll?
- 美咲 Misaki色がとてもきれいだね。Iro ga totemo kirei da ne.The colors are very beautiful.
- 健太 Kenta美咲にプレゼントしようかな。Misaki ni purezento shiyou kana.Maybe I'll give it to Misaki as a present.
- 美咲 Misakiありがとう、嬉しい！Arigatou, ureshii!Thank you, I'm so happy!
