Translation guide
Wu refers to a historical Chinese state, a region, a Chinese surname, or a kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the ancient state of Wu or the Wu region in China.
The standard Japanese name for the historical state of Wu. Used in historical contexts.
呉は春秋時代の強国だった。
Wu was a powerful state during the Spring and Autumn period.
Literally 'the country of Wu', used to emphasize the state as a political entity.
呉の国は越に滅ぼされた。
The state of Wu was destroyed by Yue.
Referring to the kingdom of Wu (222–280 AD) in the Three Kingdoms period.
The standard name for the kingdom. Often used in historical discussions and games.
三国志の呉は孫権が建国した。
Wu in the Three Kingdoms was founded by Sun Quan.
Literally 'Eastern Wu', used to distinguish it from other states named Wu. Common in historical texts.
東呉は長江の南に位置していた。
Eastern Wu was located south of the Yangtze River.
Referring to the Chinese surname Wu (吴/吳).
The Japanese reading of the Chinese surname Wu. Used when referring to Chinese people with this surname.
呉さんは中国から来ました。
Mr./Ms. Wu came from China.
A phonetic approximation of the Chinese pronunciation. Sometimes used in informal contexts or when the person prefers it.
ウー・シンさんに会った。
I met Wu Xin.
Referring to the Wu Chinese language (including Shanghainese).
The standard term for the Wu language group.
上海では呉語が話されている。
Wu Chinese is spoken in Shanghai.
Specifically refers to Shanghainese, the most well-known Wu dialect. Use when referring to the Shanghai variety.
彼は上海語を話せる。
He can speak Shanghainese.
The word 呉 (ご) can refer to different things depending on context. In historical discussions, it usually means the state or kingdom. When used with a person's name, it's a surname. Clarify with additional words if needed.