Animes and Japanese mangas have become the most popular productions in various parts of the world, even people gather to pay tribute to them. If you have met fans of this culture, you may have heard the term onii-chan. What does it mean and why is it widely used among otakus?
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We must mention that onii is one of the most used words in Japan because it expresses admiration, respect, and affection towards a person, especially if it is a family member. Furthermore, it means boss or patriarch, that's why it is mentioned on more than one occasion in Japanese comics.
What does "onii-chan" mean?
"Onii-chan" was mentioned for the first time in 2007 by the Urban Dictionary portal and is a widely used expression to refer to an older brother, coworker, or any other person you admire. If we translate it into Spanish, it can be compared to the affectionate way of calling a "little friend or little brother" whom you respect and love.
The correct way to write "Onii-chan" is to have a double 'i' because if it were only "oni", it would lose all its meaning and would be associated with an ogre, demon, or other evil spirit in Japan. Check the other terms that have the same meaning and can be used in a conversation.
- Older brother: Onii-san.
- Older brother: Onee-san.
- Older brother: Ani.
- Older sister: Ane.
- Younger brother: Otouto.
- Younger sister: Imouto.
- Siblings: Kyoudai.
- Sisters: Shumai.
Why do Otakus say "Onii-chan"?
The group of fans of Japanese animes and mangas, known in different parts as Otakus, use the term "Onii-chan" to refer to an older brother or a person they love and admire for their achievements.