デート

• Reading: デート
• Romaji: deeto
• Pronunciation: /deː.to/

Meaning

Date; a social outing with a romantic interest.

A loanword noun from English 'date' that also functions as a suru verb (デートする, to go on a date). Used exclusively for romantic outings, unlike English where 'date' can refer to calendar dates. Common phrases: デートに誘う (to ask someone on a date), 初デート (first date), デートスポット (date spot/popular date location). Casual and widely used across all age groups.

Examples

1. 週末に彼女とデートする予定だ。 I'm planning to go on a date with my girlfriend this weekend.
2. 初デートはどこに行ったらいいかな。 Where should I go for a first date?
3. 雨の日のデートは映画館がおすすめだ。 A movie theater is a great choice for a rainy day date.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, social life, entertainment

Tone: lighthearted

Origin & History

Borrowed from English 'date' (social engagement). Entered Japanese during the post-war period through American cultural influence. Written in katakana as a loanword.

Cultural Context

Era: Post-war

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal