Looking up...
お兄ちゃん
onīchan
older brother
お兄ちゃん、学校へ行ってきます！
I'm going to school, big brother!
informal
A term of endearment used by younger siblings (especially sisters) to address their older brother.
お兄ちゃん、この本読んでくれる？
Big brother, can you read this book to me?
お兄ちゃんは僕のヒーローだ。
My big brother is my hero.
Often used affectionately by younger sisters. Can also be used by close friends or romantic partners in some contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Gender and Usage
While primarily used by younger sisters, it can also be used by younger brothers in some contexts, though this is less common.
Gold Rule
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'お兄ちゃん' in informal settings. In formal contexts, use 'お兄さん' instead.
Word Origin
From 兄 (ani, older brother) + ちゃん (a diminutive suffix indicating affection or familiarity).
Usage Notes
While primarily used by younger siblings, it can also be used by close friends or romantic partners in some contexts. The term carries a sense of affection and familiarity.
Word Breakdown
兄
older brother
rootちゃん
affectionate diminutive
suffix和英辞典