あそこ

• Reading: あそこ
• Romaji: asoko
• Pronunciation: /a.so.ko/

Meaning

There; over there; that place; yonder. Refers to a place far from both speaker and listener.

The 'a' member of the ko-so-a-do place series, pointing to a location distant from both speaker and listener. Often accompanied by pointing. The irregular form あそこ (not あこ) is unique among the ko-so-a-do pronouns. Can also refer to a place both speakers know about without specifying it directly.

Examples

1. あそこに見える建物が学校です。 The building you can see over there is the school.
2. あそこのレストランはおいしいですよ。 The restaurant over there is really good.
3. 待ち合わせはあそこにしましょう。 Let's meet up over there.

Usage Guide

Context: directions, pointing, meeting places

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the ancient Japanese demonstrative system. An irregular form combining the 'a' prefix (distance) with そこ (there). The expected form あこ was replaced by あそこ, preserving the full そこ base for clarity.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal