Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'nephew' depends on whether you are referring to your own nephew or someone else's, and the level of politeness required. Unlike English, Japanese distinguishes between in-group and out-group family members.
Use when talking about your own nephew to someone outside your family, or when referring to him in a neutral context.
The standard, neutral word for one's own nephew. Used when speaking to non-family members or in general statements.
My nephew is a college student.
My nephew came to visit.
An affectionate, slightly colloquial term for one's own nephew. Often used in casual conversation.
I bought a birthday present for my nephew.
Use when speaking politely about another person's nephew, such as a colleague's or acquaintance's nephew.
Use when speaking directly to your nephew. Japanese typically uses the nephew's given name or a nickname, not a kinship term.
In Japanese, family members are usually addressed by their given name or a nickname, not by their kinship role. Calling him 'nephew' directly would sound unnatural.
Taro, come here a moment. (to your nephew)
In English, you might say 'Hey, nephew,' but in Japanese, calling someone 甥 (おい) to their face is unnatural. Always use their name or a nickname.
甥 (おい) is the standard term. 甥っ子 (おいっこ) adds a diminutive suffix っ子, making it sound more affectionate and casual. It is similar to saying 'my little nephew' in English, but without the size implication.
When talking to someone outside your family, use plain 甥 for your own nephew. When talking about someone else's nephew, add an honorific like さん or 御さん to show respect.
I heard that the neighbor's nephew got married.