[Learning the Chinese Zodiac in English] Hitsuji (Sheep) → Sheep | Meaning, Personality, and English Expressions

Hello, this is KOKO. 😊

This is the 8th installment of the [Learning the Chinese Zodiac in English] series.

I will introduce the 8th sign of the Chinese zodiac, “Hitsuji” → “Sheep” sign.

🐐Hitsuji → Sheep

Because sheep live together peacefully in flocks, the sheep is considered a symbol of “family harmony” and “peace.”

In Japan, “Sheep” is the standard for the Year of the Sheep, but in China, “Goat” is often used, and it is frequently expressed as “Year of the Goat.”

However, the Chinese character for “sheep” (羊) does not clearly distinguish between sheep and goats. Since Sheep is sometimes used in English, it is good to know both expressions.

Let's review “Sheep” with an illustration!

Let's try saying the personality of the Year of the Sheep in English

Here, we will learn three adjectives that describe the personality of the sheep in the Chinese zodiac and how to use them. Let's learn commonly used expressions along with example sentences!

① Thoughtful

② Calm

③ Cooperative

Let's try saying it all together

Let's enjoy the conversation

Are you now able to describe the personality of the Sheep in English?
Next, let's try asking like this!

Trivia ①: In China, both "goats" and "sheep" are all "羊"

While the Japanese 'Hitsuji' refers to a sheep, the Chinese character 「羊」 is a term that collectively represents bovine animals with horns such as sheep, goats, and gazelles.

I didn't know this, so I thought it was interesting that in China, "Goat" is used and it is expressed as the "Year of the Goat."

Actually, in China, every time this zodiac year comes around, the topic of "Is it a goat? Or is it a sheep?" is often brought up. However, as for the local people... they don't seem to be that concerned about it!

Trivia ②: In Vietnam, it's "goat" only!

The 'Hitsuji' (未) is a sheep in Japan, but it is '羊' in China.

On the other hand, in Vietnam, it is not a sheep but a "goat" only.

The reason is not clear, but it seems to be because Vietnam has a hot climate and sheep were not familiar there. Goats must have been more familiar animals to the people of Vietnam!

When in Rome, the zodiac animals change too!

Summary

This time, we introduced the 8th animal of the Chinese zodiac, “Hitsuji (Sheep) → Sheep”.

The Chinese zodiac is often thought to be a culture unique to Japan and China, but it has spread to many countries and regions, including South Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Tibet, and it is interesting to note that the animals and interpretations differ slightly from place to place.

Next time, I will introduce “Saru (Monkey) → Monkey”. Stay tuned! 🐵

Reference sites:
・Chinese New Year hits world media (China Daily)
・Whatever Floats Your Goat: The 2015 Lunar New Year Animal Is Up For Debate(NPR)