Translation and Meaning of: 洋服 - youfuku

The word 「洋服」 (youfuku) is a Japanese term that refers to "Western clothes." The etymology of the word is composed of two kanji: 「洋」 (you), which means "Western" or "ocean," and 「服」 (fuku), which means "clothes" or "garment." This term became widely used in Japan during the Meiji Era (1868-1912), when the country began to open up to Western influences after long periods of isolation. During this period, the introduction of Western-style clothing marked a significant and visible cultural change in Japanese society.

Before the Meiji Era, traditional Japanese clothing, known as 「和服」 (wafuku), was predominant. With Western influence, the term youfuku gained prominence to differentiate the new garments brought from Europe and America. These Western clothes included items like suits, dresses, and shirts, characterized by fabrics, cuts, and styles that were markedly different from traditional Japanese clothing. The distinction between 「洋服」 and 「和服」 became a practical way to differentiate the divergent styles of dress within Japanese culture.

In the contemporary context, 「洋服」 is not just a historical term, but continues to be an integral part of the Japanese vocabulary, reflecting the blend and cultural exchange between the East and the West. Compound words using 「洋」 often indicate other "Westernized" objects and concepts, highlighting the ongoing acceptance and adaptation of foreign elements in Japanese daily life. Even today, shops and designers in major Japanese cities like Tokyo and Osaka offer a wide range of youfuku, covering everything from casual wear to haute couture, always merging global trends with a unique Japanese aesthetic.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 衣服 (ifuku) - Clothing, apparel in general.
• 服装 (fukusou) - Dress style; specific clothing.
• ファッション (fasshon) - Fashion, clothing trends.
• アパレル (aparel) - Clothing sector, mainly related to the sale of clothes.