姉妹

• Reading: しまい
• Romaji: shimai
• Kanji breakdown: 姉 (shi) — older sister; 妹 (mai) — younger sister
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ma.i/

Meaning

Sisters. Refers to female siblings collectively.

A noun referring to sisters as a pair or group. Can be used for biological sisters or metaphorically in compounds like 姉妹都市 (sister cities) and 姉妹校 (sister schools). Contrasts with 兄弟 (brothers/siblings). When used alone, typically implies two or more female siblings.

Examples

1. あの姉妹はとても仲がいい。 Those sisters get along really well.
2. 東京とニューヨークは姉妹都市だ。 Tokyo and New York are sister cities.
3. 姉妹で一緒に旅行に行った。 The sisters went on a trip together.

Usage Guide

Context: family, daily conversation, culture

Tone: warm

Origin & History

Composed of 姉 (older sister) and 妹 (younger sister). The pairing of both kanji covers the full range of sisterly relationships.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal