兄貴(あにき)

あにき
noun
big brother (informal); bro
informalfamilyperson
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(あにき)は来年(らいねん)結婚(けっこん)する。
My big brother is getting married next year.
子供(こども)の頃(ころ)は兄貴(あにき)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(あにき)に教(おし)えてもらったことを忘(わす)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(あにき)に教(おし)えてもらったことを忘(わす)れません。
I won't forget what my bro taught me.
兄貴(あにき)、今日(きょう)も一杯(いっぱい)どうですか。
Hey bro, how about a drink today?
あの人(ひと)は業界(ぎょうかい)では兄貴(あにき)的(てき)存在(そんざい)だ。
In the industry, he's like a big-brother figure.
後輩(こうはい)たちから兄貴(あにき)と慕(した)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(にい)ちゃん to refer to an older brother.

In yakuza or gang contexts, 兄貴(あにき) 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(あね)さん (older sister figure), commonly used in the same contexts.

Common collocations

general
Added 2026.2.17 23:41 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
11500/11623_aniki