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おんな
onna
woman
彼女は優しいおんなです。
She is a kind woman.
general
A female human being, typically an adult.
このおんなは医者です。
This woman is a doctor.
The term 'おんな' is more commonly used in formal or literary contexts. In everyday speech, '女の人' (onna no hito) is more common.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Usage
In formal writing or literature, 'おんな' is appropriate. In casual conversation, '女の人' (onna no hito) is more natural.
Gold Rule
Gender-Specific Term
'おんな' specifically refers to a female human being. For non-human females, use '雌' (mesu).
Word Origin
Derived from Old Japanese 'wonna', meaning 'woman'. The kanji 女 (onna) is used to represent the concept of a female.
Usage Notes
While 'おんな' is the standard written form, in spoken Japanese, '女の人' (onna no hito) is more commonly used to refer to a woman. 'おんな' can also be used in a more poetic or literary sense.
Word Breakdown
女
woman
rootお
honorific prefix
prefix和英辞典