Meaning and Usage
"婦人" (ふじん) typically refers to a woman, often implying a married or mature woman. It is more formal and somewhat old-fashioned compared to "女性" or "女の人," and is frequently used in contexts like clothing sections, associations, or magazines targeting adult women.
Common Collocations
- 婦人服 (ふじんふく): women's clothing, often used in department stores.
- 婦人会 (ふじんかい): women's association or club, usually community or social groups.
- 婦人雑誌 (ふじんざっし): women's magazine, media targeted at adult women.
Register and Nuance
The term carries a polite and formal tone and is often used in written language or formal speech. It can sound a bit old-fashioned or official, so in casual conversation, "女性" or "女の人" might be preferred.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "婦人" with "女性" and use it in casual contexts where it sounds unnatural. Remember that "婦人" often implies a married or mature woman and is best reserved for formal or specific contexts.