Meaning and Usage
"動物" (どうぶつ) means "animal" in Japanese and is a common noun used to refer to living creatures other than humans, including pets, wild animals, and zoo animals.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "動物" in contexts like visiting a zoo (動物園), talking about pets, or discussing wildlife. It is a neutral and standard word suitable for everyday conversation and formal writing.
Collocations and Patterns
- 動物園 (どうぶつえん): zoo, a place to see many animals
- 動物の世話 (どうぶつのせわ): taking care of animals
- 野生の動物 (やせいのどうぶつ): wild animals
Usage Tips
When using "動物," it generally refers to animals as a group or category. For specific animals, use their names (e.g., 犬 for dog, 猫 for cat). Avoid confusing "動物" with "ペット" which specifically means "pet." "動物" is broader and includes all animals, not just those kept at home.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes use "動物" when they mean "pet." Remember that "ペット" is the correct word for pets, while "動物" is more general.