母国

• Reading: ぼこく
• Romaji: bokoku
• Kanji breakdown: 母 (bo) — mother; 国 (koku) — country, nation
• Pronunciation: /bo.ko.kɯ/

Meaning

One's home country; homeland; motherland. The country where one was born or holds citizenship.

A noun that carries a warm, personal nuance compared to the more neutral 出身国 (shusshin koku, country of origin). The 母 (mother) element evokes an emotional bond to one's homeland. Commonly used when discussing expatriate experiences, international relations, or identity. The related term 母国語 (bokokugo, mother tongue/native language) is also frequently encountered.

Examples

1. 留学中は母国の料理が恋しくなった。 While studying abroad, I found myself missing food from back home.
2. 母国に帰るのは三年ぶりだ。 This is my first time back in my home country in three years.
3. 母国の文化を海外で紹介する活動をしている。 I'm involved in activities to introduce my home country's culture overseas.

Usage Guide

Context: international, expatriate life, cultural identity

Tone: warm

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 母 (bo, mother) + 国 (koku, country). Literally 'mother country' — paralleling the English concept of 'motherland.'

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal