叔父・伯父|おじoji[0]heiban (flat)
はくふhakufu[0]heiban (flat)しゅくふshukufu[0]heiban (flat)
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Which spelling to use
叔父叔父 is the more common written form for “uncle”; beginners should use it when choosing between these two kanji-only forms.
伯父伯父 is less common than 叔父. It is another kanji-only written form, so choose 叔父 unless you have a specific reason to use 伯父.
Definitions
- noununcle伯父 or 叔父 respectively can mean older or younger than one's parent
Synonyms & antonyms
- RelatedおじさんNeutralUsed to address an uncle or mention one in speech, with a warm, friendly feel; written 「小父さん」 it refers to any middle-aged man.
- Related伯父貴おじきCasualAn affectionate or respectful way to say uncle, heard mainly in male speech or yakuza talk; rare in everyday use.
- Antonym叔母おばNeutralThe counterpart of 「叔父」: a parent's younger sister, or the wife of a parent's younger brother; the older sort is written 「伯母」.
In narration write 「叔父」 or 「伯父」; when addressing or speaking of an uncle, 「おじさん」 is the natural choice. 「伯父貴」 is rare, mostly male or yakuza speech; female relatives take 「叔母」/「伯母」.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
- 父母の弟。おじ。
Kanji in this word
English equivalents
