Translation guide
A man who embodies traditional masculine qualities and is admired by other men.
Describing a man who is strong, practical, and prefers the company of other men in stereotypically masculine settings.
He's a real man's man.
Uses the character 漢 (kan), which implies a rugged, tough man. Carries a slightly more old-fashioned or dramatic nuance.
He is called a man's man.
Literally 'smelling of man', this adjective describes a very masculine, rugged atmosphere or person. It can be used positively among men but may sound rough.
Can have negative connotations of being unrefined or lacking sensitivity, depending on context.
His hobbies are very much a man's man kind of thing.
Emphasizing the admiration and leadership qualities that make a man a role model for other men.
Literally 'a man that men fall for'. This phrase highlights the respect and admiration other men have for him, often due to his character or skills.
He's a man's man, someone other men really admire.
Refers to a man who acts like an older brother figure, someone who is reliable, protective, and looked up to by other men in a group.
Do not translate 'man's man' literally as 男の男 (otoko no otoko). While understandable, it is not a natural Japanese expression. Use the phrases provided instead.
男らしい (otokorashii) means 'manly' or 'masculine' and can describe anyone with masculine traits. 男の中の男 specifically means a man who is the epitome of masculinity and is admired by other men, closer to 'man's man'.
He's the man's man of the team, like a big brother to everyone.