Translation guide
The English word 'dada' refers to the early 20th-century avant-garde art movement Dadaism. This guide explains how to refer to the movement, its works, and its style in Japanese.
Referring to the historical avant-garde movement Dadaism
The most common term for Dadaism as an art movement. Used in art history and general contexts.
ダダイズムは第一次世界大戦中に始まった。
Dadaism began during World War I.
Shorter, more casual term for Dada. Often used in artistic or cultural discussions.
彼の作品はダダの影響を受けている。
His work is influenced by Dada.
French-derived spelling, less common but sometimes seen in academic or historical texts.
ダダイスムの展覧会が開かれた。
An exhibition of Dadaism was held.
Describing something as Dada-like, absurd, or anti-art
Adjectival phrase meaning 'Dada-esque' or 'in the style of Dada'. Used to describe works or attitudes.
そのパフォーマンスはとてもダダ的だった。
That performance was very Dada-esque.
Literally 'the spirit of Dada', used to refer to the anti-establishment, absurdist ethos of the movement.
彼らはダダの精神を受け継いでいる。
They carry on the spirit of Dada.
Referring to an artist or participant in the Dada movement
Standard term for a Dadaist artist or follower.
マルセル・デュシャンは有名なダダイストだ。
Marcel Duchamp is a famous Dadaist.
In Japanese, the English word 'dada' is almost always understood as the art movement. For the childish word for father, use パパ (papa). For nonsense or baby talk, other words are used.