1. Introduction
The expression “Ara Ara” is an incredibly common phrase used in Japanese language and culture. It is used to express surprise, shock, embarrassment, or even disappointment. The phrase has a variety of meanings depending on the context and how it is used. This article will explore the meaning of “Ara Ara” in Japanese language and culture, as well as provide examples of its use and how to use it appropriately in conversation.
2. Overview of Ara Ara in Japanese Culture
The expression “Ara Ara” is an incredibly common phrase used in Japanese language and culture. It is often used to express surprise, shock, embarrassment, or even disappointment. The phrase has a variety of meanings depending on the context and how it is used. In some cases, it can be used to express sympathy towards someone else or even playfully tease them.
The term “Ara Ara” originated from the Edo period (1603-1868) when it was commonly used by female characters in Kabuki theatre plays to express surprise or shock at something that happened on stage or offstage. Since then, the term has been adopted into everyday conversation by both men and women alike as a way to express emotion without using words.
3. The Meaning of Ara Ara in Japanese
In general terms, the expression “Ara Ara” can be roughly translated to mean “Oh my!” In some cases it can also mean “What’s wrong?” or “What happened?” Depending on the context and how it is used, the meaning can vary greatly from person to person.
When said with a rising intonation at the end (araa~), it can be interpreted as expressing sympathy towards someone else’s misfortune or even teasing them playfully about something they have done wrong or made a mistake on. When said with a falling intonation at the end (araa.), it usually expresses shock or surprise at something unexpected that has happened or been said.
4 Examples of the Use of Ara Ara in Japanese Language
Examples of how “Ara Ara” may be used in everyday conversations include:
• A: “I’m so embarrassed!” B: “Araa~” (expressing sympathy)
• A: “I just failed my exam!” B: “Araa.” (expressing shock)
• A: “I just made a huge mistake!” B: “Araa~” (teasingly expressing disapproval)
• A: “I just won the lottery!” B: “Araa!” (expressing excitement).
5 Different Types of Ara Ara Expressions
There are many different types of expressions that utilize “Ara Ara” depending on what emotion you want to convey such as surprise, shock, embarrassment, disappointment etc.. Here are some examples of different expressions that use this phrase:
• 田舎者あらあら (Tanakamono araara): Roughly translates to “Oh my! What an unexpected turn out” when something surprising happens
• 恥ずかしいあらあら(Hazukashii araara): Roughly translates to “Oh my! How embarrassing” when you feel embarrassed about something
• びっくりあらあら(Bikkuri araara): Roughly translates to “Oh my! How shocking” when something unexpected happens
6 How To Use The Expression “Ara Ara” Appropriately
Using this expression correctly requires understanding both its meaning and appropriate contexts for usage. Generally speaking, this expression should only be used when expressing sympathy towards someone else’s misfortune/embarrassment/disappointment etc.. It should not be used as an insult towards another person nor should it be overused as it could come across as insincere or fake if done too often. Additionally, one should take care not to use this expression excessively due to its informal nature; using too much could make one seem unprofessional if spoken within formal settings such as work meetings etc..
7 Common Misconceptions About The Expression “Ara Ara”
One common misconception about this expression is that it implies sexual innuendo due to its similarity with other phrases such as ‘ahhh’ which are often associated with sexual pleasure/desire etc.. However this is not true; there are no sexual connotations associated with this phrase whatsoever so don’t worry about any misunderstandings arising from its usage! Additionally, some people may think that using this phrase implies agreement with whatever was said beforehand but again this isn’t true; rather than signifying agreement/approval like ‘yes’ would do for example – ‘araa’ simply expresses surprise/shock/sympathy etc..
8 Conclusion
In conclusion – understanding what ‘araa’ means and how/when it should be appropriately utilized can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively within Japanese language & culture – whether you’re talking casually with friends/family members or professionally within formal settings such as work meetings etc.. As long as you take care not to misuse or overuse this expression – you should have no problem communicating clearly & effectively!
9 Sources
https://japaneselevelup.com/what-does-ara-ara-mean-in-japanese/
https://www.tofugu.com/japanese/what-does-arara-mean/
What does Arara mean?
noun arara (plural ararus) Australian (or large black) palm parrot (Probosiger aterimus).
What is Ara in Japanese?
Ara is intermediate and means oh or oh. So ara means oh ara ara literally means oh oh. But of course in Japanese its less about literal translation and more about understanding how the word is used.
Why do girls say Ara Ara?
The phrase originated in Japanese anime movies where female characters often say it. When manga girls use this expression they are usually trying to be cute or polite and it is usually a way of flirting with someone. Ara Ara always said in a certain way in a low whisper and soft tone.
Who says Ara Ara in anime?
The phrase originated in Japanese animated films and is often spoken by female characters. When women say cartoons they usually want to sound cute or submissive which is usually a way of flirting with someone.
What is UWU in Japanese?
uwu is often used to express sweet happiness or tenderness.
What is Moshi Moshi?
Moshi-moshi is a Japanese expression commonly used by Japanese people when answering the phone. Its a casual greeting to friends and family like hello but it actually means something completely different! In English it literally means the same as say to say or speak I speak.
