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支那
shina
China (historical/derogatory term)
支那は古代から多くの文化を生み出した。
China has produced many cultures since ancient times.
historicalformal
A historical term for China, now considered derogatory or outdated in modern Japanese usage.
支那の歴史は非常に長い。
The history of China is very long.
This term is rarely used in contemporary contexts and is often replaced with '中国' (Chūgoku) in modern Japanese.
Synonyms
Pro Tip
Modern Usage
In contemporary Japanese, '中国' (Chūgoku) is the preferred term for China. '支那' is considered archaic and potentially offensive.
Word Origin
Derived from the Chinese name for China, '支那' (Shīnà), which was used in historical Japanese texts. The term fell out of favor due to its association with imperialist and derogatory connotations.
Usage Notes
Avoid using this term in modern contexts as it may be perceived as offensive or outdated. '中国' (Chūgoku) is the standard and neutral term for China in contemporary Japanese.
Word Breakdown
支
to support or assist
kanji component那
that or those
kanji component和英辞典