1.
big brother; older brother
An informal, somewhat masculine way to refer to one's older brother. More casual than 兄 or お兄さん.
兄貴は来年結婚する。
My big brother is getting married next year.
子供の頃は兄貴とよくけんかした。
When I was a kid, I used to fight with my big brother a lot.
兄貴に教えてもらったことを忘れません。
I won't forget what my bro taught me.
2.
bro; boss; senior (as address)
Used as a term of address or reference for a respected older male figure, particularly in yakuza contexts, street culture, or among close male friends. Implies camaraderie and respect.
兄貴に教えてもらったことを忘れません。
I won't forget what my bro taught me.
兄貴、今日も一杯どうですか。
Hey bro, how about a drink today?
あの人は業界では兄貴的存在だ。
In the industry, he's like a big-brother figure.
後輩たちから兄貴と慕われている。
He is looked up to as 'big bro' by his juniors.
A masculine, informal word. Women more typically use お{兄ちゃん} to refer to an older brother.
In yakuza or gang contexts, 兄貴 is a standard term for a senior member. In everyday usage, it can express affectionate respect for an older male friend or mentor.
The female counterpart is 姐さん (older sister figure), commonly used in the same contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 兄貴分 — a big-brother type
- 兄貴的存在 — a big-brother figure
- 兄貴肌 — having a brotherly, protective personality