kodomo Meaning

Definition and Meaning

Kodomo (子供) is a Japanese word that translates to “child” or “children” in English. It primarily refers to a young human being, typically under the age of 18.

1. Core Meaning: A biological human offspring.
2. Extended Meaning: A general term for a young person, could also imply innocence or naivety.

Etymology

The term “kodomo” comprises two kanji characters:

• 子 (ko) meaning “child” or “offspring.”
• 供 (domo) meaning “to accompany” or “to follow.”

The combined meaning conveys the idea of young beings or offspring accompanying their elders.

Literal and Figurative Uses

Literal Use:

• Refers specifically to young humans.
  • Example: “Kodomo ga asobimasu.” (子供が遊びます) - “The children are playing.”

Figurative Use:

• Used to metaphorically describe someone as immature or lacking experience, similar to calling an adult “childish.”
  • Example: “Kare no hanashi wa kodomo no youda.” (彼の話は子供のようだ) - “His story sounds childish.”

Common Phrases or Idioms

1. Kodomo no tame ni (子供のために) - “For the sake of children.”
2. Kodomo no kaigan (子供の会話) - “Child’s play” or “children’s conversation” referring to simple or playful exchanges.
3. Kodomo no shisaku (子供の支作) - “Children’s activities,” especially in educational contexts.

Contextual Usage & Example Sentences

1. Formal: “Kodomo no kenko ni tsuite no chousa ga hitsuyou desu.” (子供の健康についての調査が必要です) - “A study on children’s health is necessary.”
2. Informal: “Kodomo tachi to issho ni asobou!” (子供たちと一緒に遊ぼう!) - “Let’s play with the kids!”
3. Technical: “Kodomo no seikatsu shien (子供の生活支援)” - “Support for children’s living conditions.”
4. Slang: “Kawaii kodomo jan?” (かわいい子供じゃん？) - “Isn’t that a cute kid?”
5. Academic: “Kodomo no shakai shikaku ni tsuite.” (子供の社会資格について) - “Regarding children’s social skills.”

Daily Conversations, Academic Writing, and Informal Speech

• Daily Conversations: Frequently used in family discussions about activities involving children, celebrations, or education.
• Academic Writing: Contextually appears in research articles on child development, sociology, and education.
• Informal Speech: Often seen in casual dialogues, social media posts, or informal gatherings discussing parenting or children’s behavior.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms:

1. 児童 (jidou) - “juvenile” ( )
2. 幼稚園児 (youchienji) - “preschooler” ( )
3. 子 (ko) - “offspring” ()

Antonyms:

1. 大人 (otona) - “adult” ()
2. 高齢者 (koureisha) - “elderly person” ( )
3. 成人 (seijin) - “adult” ()

Pronunciation & Phonetics

• Pronunciation: /ko’domo/
• IPA Transcription: [ko̞do̞mo̞]

In conclusion, “kodomo” is a term steeped in cultural significance, denoting not only the innocence and characteristics of youth but reflecting broader implications of development, upbringing, and societal roles. Its use spans formal, informal, and technical fields, integral to discussions on childhood across multiple contexts.

Take your English to the next level with YouTube videos. Tombik.com