羊 — meaning in English: sheep

hitsuji · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for sheep

能力

nōryoku

喜び

yorokobi

着陸

chakuriku

羊

hitsuji

家族

kazoku

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 羊 (hitsuji) in various contexts, especially when talking about farming or discussing animals in a casual conversation. For instance, you might hear it in a discussion about a farm's livestock or while comparing different types of animals in a children's story.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym of 羊 (hitsuji) is 羊毛 (youmou), which refers specifically to 'wool', the fiber obtained from sheep. While 羊 refers to the animal itself, you would use 羊毛 when discussing products like clothing or blankets made from sheep's wool.

Culture

The character 羊 (hitsuji) has been used in Japanese culture for centuries, symbolizing innocence and gentleness. Interestingly, in the old Japanese calendar, sheep were linked to the zodiac sign 'Yin' or 'Yang', reflecting their significance in traditional beliefs about harmony and balance. Additionally, in folklore, the sheep is often seen as a protector, representing guidance and safety.

FAQ

Q.What does 羊 mean in English?

The word 羊 (hitsuji) translates to 'sheep' in English, referring to the domesticated animal commonly found on farms.

Q.How do you write 羊 in kanji?

羊 is written in kanji as it is, and it's a simple character often recognized even by beginner learners due to its straightforward design.

Q.Are there any common phrases that include 羊?

Yes! One common phrase is 羊が1匹、羊が2匹 (hitsuji ga ippiki, hitsuji ga nihiki), which translates to 'one sheep, two sheep' and is often used when counting sheep to fall asleep.

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