Japanese word

二枚目

Pronunciation

Romajinimaime

Meaning

  • noungood-looking man

Example

あの俳優は二枚目です。a no hai yū wa ni mai me de su

That actor is a good-looking man.

Illustration for 二枚目 (good-looking man)

More examples

彼は若いころ、映画で二枚目を演じていました。kare wa waka i ko ro ei ga de ni mai me o en ji te i ma shi ta

When he was young, he played handsome male roles in movies.

Core concept

Refers to a good-looking man whose appearance suggests a polished and appealing presence.

Common phrases

  • 二枚目俳優ni mai me hai yū

    handsome actor

Similar words

美男子bidanshi: A notably attractive man, especially in facial appearance.
男前otokomae: A handsome man whose appearance also suggests a bold and dependable manner.
ハンサムhansamu: An attractive man described in a modern and casual way.

Definition in Japanese

容貌が美しく、洗練された印象を与える男性。yō bō ga utsuku shi ku sen ren sa re ta in shō o ata e ru dan sei

Word origin

二枚目 (nimaime, "handsome man") originally referred to the second panel of a traditional kabuki bill, where a handsome male actor or romantic character was presented.

Usage tips

  • The word often carries a slightly playful tone, so it can sound warmer than a neutral statement about a man's appearance.

Opposites

  • 三枚目sanmaimecomic actornoun

Word lists with this word